Wow, that was a rude awakening to the triathlon season following a long winter hibernation. Perhaps my most difficult triathlon experience ever. Even though it was a sprint distance, the race felt endless since the moment my face hit the 12-degree water (for reference: pre-hypothermic symptons like loss of dexterity can begin after 15 min at this temp). T1 took me a full 10 minutes to change clothes with trembling hands. Of course, my lazy and indulgent off-season left me in pathetic physical condition, for which I have only myself to blame.
The one redeeming quality: the area around St.Leu d’Esserent along the Oise river is absolutely stunning. If only they scheduled this triathlon at the end of the summer…