Race went great. Ocean swim, wetsuit legal but not really cold. Ocean looked flat starting out but got a bit waves around turn buoys. Bike start was cool and wind aided heading west. Felt strong on the longer north section. Followed JC’s plan to just use power and cadence to determine pace, I found that really great. On the way back south, slightly into an ESE wind that was intensifing and temps climbing my back began to tighten. This was causing some power reduction. Finally found relief by occasionally standing. Was able to bring the power back up a bit. The final 4 mile stretch was into the teeth of the now 11+ mph wind. During Friday’s practice ride with similar wind conditions I was concerned with my new race wheels b/c the wind was making them a little unstable but I found when I was in the aero position with elbows in the pads this stabilized them. The run was 3 loops with lots of turns. Not super hot but little shade from the sun and very windy. Started off much faster than JC suggested but it felt effortless. Grabbed water at each station and began adding gels and electrolytes on each lap. Second laps I slowed a little to around 9 min pace and pretty much held that. On laps 2/3 took too long at a few stations as they were getting crowed. Began pushing the pace the last 3 miles, this also was into the wind but was feeling good. Finished in 5:35, 3rd in AG. Looking back I know I did my best and the results honored the work I put into training. Found out there were 4 AG slots for the 70.3 World Championship in St. George Utah. So that’s where I’ll be in September.