Thanks to all who wished me well and for your encouragement! What a ride this was!
Since it's rated the #1 triathlon in the world because of the mystique of Alcatraz and the tough course...this was my goal before I turned 50. Call it...MY Ironman!

The 1.5 mile Swim: Jumping off the boat with 1799 other triathletes wasn't as daunting as I expected nor was the icy cold water. However...the rough current and choppy water made for a tiring swim. In fact, I was told by organizers this was the 2nd toughtest swim in the 20+ years for the event.
After the race I was told by organizers, they pulled 100 swimmers out of the water because they were drifting too far off course and the incoming fog was making it difficult to sight land. But I finished with some guidance from kayakers. I actually kissed the ground when I got out!!!

The 18-mile Bike: My favorite leg of any tri--this was was about 85% uphill! I'm talking vertical--Lance Armstrong climbs!!! Loved the views but it was a slower ride than I expected. Had a lot of fun with the volunteers and police who showed us the way.

The 8-mile Run: At this point, I figure I'm home-free. 8 miles of variouis terrain..beaches..those grueling sand steps, lots of hills and more steps, narrow trails and a tunnel. However..5 miles into it...I trip on a narrow trail high on a bluff and fall flat on my face! I get a huge gash in my left knee..but thanks to Gary Maier of St. Louis, I finish the remaining 3 miles with a handkerchief around my knee and blood running down my leg. Pretty sight!  We finish together and with great pride!  Then it was off to the emergency room for about a dozen stitches and lots of medication.
On an natural high despite the wound and new badge of honor!

                                 If I can do this...so can YOU!

All the best,
Victoria

For pictures go to: www.kodakgallery.com and enter Victoria's Escape from Alcatraz
_________________________________________________________________