so what did I learn from my last race

- gotta train with my racing team before the race to get a better sense of pace

- train will full equipment before the race - this will save loads of time on the details leading up to the race

- keep the little things simple and focus on the big picture - i.e. race strategy, adaptation to changes in venue, as much sleep as possible

- be ready for any weather - get better wet weather gear (dry bag, rain jacket, etc.)

- pay closer attention to my teammates - how they are feeling, signals they are sending

- think a lot more about time and distances - have a plan on where you expect to be when - tweak the plan if you don't make your targets

- visualize how we will feel at certain points in the race - be mentally prepared for the down times - plan breaks

- be decisive - once a good team decision is made, execute

- pay more attention to body pains, especially early in the race - take a break and fix the problem (my poor toe!)

- put ice on my toe sooner (if this ever happens again!) so I don't loose my toe nail

- keep having fun!