If you are in town for Oceanside 70.3 we ordered up some great weather for you! I figured I would post a few tips on racing this course, for those of you who may be racing here for the first time.
SWIM:
- The water is cold, but not terrible (last check was 58). If you are a bit of a slower swimmer you might want to consider wearing two swim caps or a hood to keep you a bit warmer.
- Since it is a wave start, you often stand around in bare feet in the chilly temps on cold concrete for a while. I usually bring an old pair of socks I don't care about throwing away to wear once I'm in my wetsuit but have left transition to line up.
- There are occasionally seals in the harbor. They will not eat you! They are just curious as to why you are swimming around in their home early on the weekend.
BIKE:
- The first part of the course is flat and fast. It's fun - you often will have a tail wind.
- After you turn to go inland you will hit the rollers and one particularly "ohmigoodness-I-have-to-climb-that??" hill. Spin those legs and you will be up it in no time.
- After descending the fun rollers on the back side of Camp Pendleton (thank you marines for letting us on base!!) it flattens out and typically you will head into a strong headwind. Keep in mind everyone has to ride through it.
Thanks to Script & Seal for this cool image - you can purchase it here.
RUN:
- The course is mostly on concrete, so if you don't do well with race flats on strictly concrete - maybe wear a more cushioned shoe.
- The run is relatively flat and BEAUTIFUL - ocean views galore.
- If you come from a colder climate and are in a later wave it might feel a bit warm on the run - don't forget to hydrate.
- There is no sand running this year!
