First tri tomorrow!!

[touringtotri]

I'm really nervous about getting cold on the swim...any good tips? I don't have a wetsuit, but it's in a relatively warm lake (69 ish degrees)

It's in the evening, which is really unusual -- any eating suggestions?

I'm having brunch and then I think I'll have a few granola bars an hour to an hour and a half before the race.

[indygreg]

well, this will not help your nerves, but 69 is not relatively warm IMHO. That is cold, you are going to be cold. the good news is that you will warm up when you are on the bike and your feet.

My advice, which is of no use now, is:
Practice eating before the race. Based on what time the race is, test at the time and see what works best.
If you are unsure of the water temp, get in it before the race (like weeks before, days before) if possible and see what it is like.

How long is the tri? How much do you swim now? In what temps do you normally swim?

[trin2du]

I did a tri this weekend in water at 70 degrees. The vast majority did not wear wetsuits, and I didn;t find it very cold at all. What are the air temps supposed to be? The closer they are to the water temp, the better it will feel.

I would eat little meals throughout the day and make sure to drink plenty of fluids.

Good luck and have fun!

[cjbruin]

69 is warm enough. Have fun and good luck!

[edbikebabe]

I can't remember exactly (and am too lazy to look it up) but around here, the water temp cutoff for wetsuit use is around 22°C (71.6F). I think you'll be fine racing at that temp.

Just remember to relax & have fun. Your first race should be about getting out there & enjoying the experience.