June Lake Triathlon is touted as "The TOUGHEST race in the most BEAUTIFUL place" and it holds up to its reputation! With a lake swim at 7,600', it is a tough half-Iron distance race. Unfortunately, I went into the race "fit & fatigued" due to house projects that needed to get done before racing and an increase in work load. This made the race more challenging but I stuck with it, had a steady swim, quick T1, a focused bike ride, 3rd quickest T2 and a brutal & beautiful run, with almost 2,400' of elevation change!

It was in the swim while gasping for air, I realized I would need to change my perspective for the day. Fatigue was deep and even though I had an okay taper, I was out of energy. Instead of trying to better last year's time, which I finished 1st in my AG, I knew I should just make sure I nail the basics and enjoy the day. On the bike, I fueled well, felt great & took in the beauty of the vistas and nature. Both on the bike & run, I had a deer cross in front of me. Once on the run, I made sure to talk, make jokes with and thank the volunteers at the aid stations.

I fueled well with no issues, staying in the moment and finished 2nd in my AG and 10th Overall! Sure, not many do this race because it is so tough, but I signed up to defend my AG title from last year and made the best of it, even being fatigued. This was a mental challenge, to overcome the voices of saying "just quit & relax". I am happy with my race, my performance and look to the future... "onward & upward!" Thanks PPF