About 160 photos of the pros from the Los Angeles Triathlon can be viewed at: www.dreamscapeimages.net Race results are available at: www.latriathon.com

I did my first two tri's ever this year - one Olympic and one Sprint - for both events I had some serious anxiety issues during the first part of the swim (say 200-400 yards). I couldn't get into any kind of groove and I could barely catch my breath and felt like I was flailing around. Eventually I settled down, but it took quite a while and I burned a ton of energy in the process.

I had and open water clinic this morning. I haven't swam in a lake in quit sometime and I thought I would get all freaked out because of seaweed and fish and everyother unseen thing that resides in a lake but I actually really enjoyed the swim. In PA there is no where you can swim in a lake. For some reason they just don't let you do this. But with this clinic you can. "The pain of discipline is far less than the pain of regret" - Sarah Bombell

So despite an open water swim freak out, I did it. I can't believe I never thought about the water. I'm used to swimming at the Y with crystal clear, temperature controlled water and a line on the bottom guiding me on my way. My first stroke in the cold murky lake sent me into panic mode. Where is the closest kayaker? Who can save me when I start drowning?

I generally always feel prepared for the swim, just to be disappointed by my results. I don't get the opportunity to practice open water swimming and am inevitably shocked by how much harder it is compared to lap swimming. I was reading this month’s Triathlete and there was an article by Sara Mclarty that mentioned flipping at the T's instead of at the wall. Pain is the sensation of weakness leaving the body!

Huh.. watching the women's 10k open water swim right now, and there are referees on boats alongside the athletes. The commentary mentioned that they will blow a whistle if there is unsportsman-like conduct. I wonder how that would change an IM swim start! Miles of Life --- Powered by MarkyV

Well it is that time of the season where you have either completed a couple of races or you are getting ready for the first open water swim. Now it is time to leave the comforts of that nice , clear, warm community swimming pool. I have compiled a list of a few tips that might make that experience a little less stressful.