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Pete's first olympic distance triathlon

On Sunday Pete competed in his first Olympic distance triathlon. That meant a 1500m ocean swim, 40km bike ride (no drafting from other competitors allowed) and a 10km run. It happened to be the selection trial for the Eastern Province Triathlon team, with some of South Africa's best triathletes competing, however Pete didn't let that get on his nerves too much!!

As Pete was racing to the transition area after the swim leg he spotted his #1 supporter in the crowd, so ran over to Harrison and tickled his feet. The smile of excitement on Harrison's face as he recognised Dad racing towards him was priceless, and momentarily distracted Pete before he commenced his bike leg - a precious moment.

After a relatively comfortable swim leg, Pete got settled into the 40km bike leg to Schoenmakerskop and back, battling against the 50km/hr winds. Riding in his biggest gear for the majority of the cycle was a bit demoralising, however a testament to the rediculously windy and exposed cycling route.

Pete felt such a huge sense of achievement and pride upon completing the race, and is already thinking about the next race!

On the pier waiting for the race to start

The racers assemble for the pre-race briefing

"And they're off (note the bent over 'start' flag from the wind!)"

Pete racing towards the shoreline, desperately hoping for a big wave, after the first swim loop

Rounding the marker and back for another 750m loop

Running to transition after swim leg

Leaving transition for the 40km bike leg



The end is in sight (Pete zoomed in on the photo to confirm that both feet were off the ground and he was in fact running)!

Exhausted and feeling every bit of the 2hr49min!


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