New Orleans 70.3 Race Report

Let me just preface this long post with a short summary for those that are curious to know the outcome of this race, but who don't really want to read my long-winded report: I did cross the finish line and receive a medal, but I did not "officially" finish as I was not able to do it within the eight hours. I know that to those of you who do not "do" triathlons and to even some who do, this detail may to you mean nothing less of an accomplishment for me, but for me and many in the "elite" group of true finishers, it is not the same. I am truly respectful of those that finished within the time frame, because it is really quite a feat. I am proud of myself for what I did accomplish, but I do recognize the difference. If the time didn't matter, then there would be no "cut-off". I do appreciate everyone's kudos for my efforts, but please excuse me if I downplay my enthusiasm over having just "finished". Now with that having been said, I hope I can entertain you with my race report, as I had plenty of time to write it in my head during the last three hours of my race! So here goes: