A Week of Firsts

This past week, I've had a number of first-time experiences:

1) First nephew: I was in Gainesville earlier this week for the birth of Lauren's, my big sister, and Clay's first child (also the first grandchild on both sides). Beckett is absolutely beautiful and, like his auntie, has big hands and feet. With tall parents, however, he will probably grow into his paws better than I did!

2) First trip to Chicago: I went to Chicago for the first time for the Chicago Triathlon last weekend and was impressed by how clean, modern and vibrant of a city it is. With great shopping, dining and cultural offerings, as well as really nice people, I look forward to going back. I also owe my dad a Cubs game! While I was a bit skeptical of the city's bid for the 2016 Olympic Games, I now can envision a Chicago Games and would certainly be keen to represent the US there.

3) First race of 8,700 people: I've never been to a race as large as the Chicago triathlon. I can't even imagine the amount of organization required in order to hold a race of that size. As a competitor, there is such an incredible energy to participating with thousands of other athletes. Having to run around the age group competitors was an unexpected challenge, however. What a difference with closed-course World Cups with no more than 80 women on the course at any given time!

4) First race on a TT bike: Until a few weeks ago, I'd never used a Time Trial frame. Blue gave me a fantastic frame that I built up with borrowed parts and rode this past weekend in Chicago. While I lost quite a bit of time on the second lap of the bike to Becky Lavelle, the winner of the race(non-drafting racing requires so much focus- more than I'm used to!), I had a strong bike leg and a solid swim and bike. When I crossed the line in second place, I was overjoyed and definitely look forward to improving as a non-drafting athlete!

Thanks for reminders from my readers to update my blog!
Sorry for the delay :-)
All the best,
Sarah