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OAP Triathlon-ing

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Daughter has invited me to join her in a sprint* triathlon next May; and I have foolishly accepted. To egg myself on, I have signed up to CRUK's challenge to ride 300 miles in July. What a numpty!

Anyone else a recent convert to triathlons?

I'm under 20 mins for the swim, having not swum for about a year at any pace; and have just completed 100 miles on the bike. The run is a far off land at the mo lol, but I can walk 5km in an hour, so have high hopes of 40 mins ish.

*750m swim/20km bike/5km run. It's the short version of the big-boy n girl one.
 
I’m reminded of Bob Mortimers comment in Gone Fishing. When in hospital he asked the Consultant who his typical heart patients were. 50 somethings who have just taken up Marathon running came the reply.
 
Piece of cake.
Been doing that for years although I ride 30km on mountain bike off road rather than on smooth tarmac.
Said that, I think it's a bit late for you to start training now...
Why didn't you start a few months ago?
As older persons we are at a lot more risk of injury, so if you go for it, take it easy.
 
I used to do TTs and Ultra endurance MTB. I did a few Triathlons and Duathlons (bigger distance). Based on where you are, I'd suggest you do the following:

- count to 20 before going in the water to stop the leaders drowning you. Try to swim smoothly.
- the ride should be about riding efficiently, keep your HR in zone 2, 3
- the run will be ok after that.
 
300 miles logged yesterday for the CRUK July challenge. A whole day early! Finished off with a 13 km ride at a 20kph average. Not too shabby for an ancient old fart!
 
I'm ok in the water, which from what I read, is the main weakness of Tri-ers.


Is it an openwater swim?

If yes, have you trained for openwater?


The reason I ask is that doing 750m in a pool is different to 750m in a lake and, if the weather is not your friend, can finish your race before you get near the bike.
 
In my view your heart is only good for x amounts of beats in a lifetime so I save mine for walking to the pub.
 
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