Jeff Pratt starting the 22 mile bike ride
The bike ride was definitely my strongest event but when I got off my bike at the transition stage to start the run my legs were jello. I tried to drink some gatorade and pretty much choked on it as I ran out of the staging area. The 3 mile trail run doesn't sound very intimidating but let me tell you, the first mile was torture. My legs did not want to move and all I wanted to do was stop moving. I pained through the first mile before I started to feel better and was able to pick up the pace. Probably 2.5 miles in, my legs started to cramp as I ran into a ditch forcing me to stop and stretch them out. From there on, I couldn't really bend my legs that much so I had to waddle like a penguin anytime there was a small hill or downhill. 
Transitioning from the swim to the bike
I finished the race in 2 hours and 57 minutes. First place for men 25-29 in the short course and 10th overall. I must say shortening the swim definitely helped me and I was super surprised how much adrenaline I had during the whole event. The experience was eye opening and I think I might be hooked. I am already planning on signing up for three triathlons next summer. Now I just gotta work on my swimming!
Jeff Pratt, myself and Christina Farias enjoying cold beer in our trophy pints