This is my annual birthday triathlon. Due to knee and hip problems and a hectic work schedule, I did not train much for this event. Consequently I switched from the Olympic distance to the sprint. To my surprise my I PR'ed by over 4 minutes and came in 4th in my age group from last year's performance. Because of my hip and knee injury I did not bike and run as much as I would have liked. I instead focused on my transitions and the swim. I got some much needed tri-bike shoes and practiced the running mount/dismount. Boy did it make a huge difference. My swim was over 2 minutes faster than last year (despite the strong current) and I saved over 3 minutes on my transitions. I did not improve much on the bike as was expected and ran the 5k slower. But despite all this, I came in 4th in my age group. Overall I always enjoy Strawberry Fields. It is a fast and flat course. Afterwards my family and I headed to Flip Flops Bar and Grill and soaked up some sun at the beach. It was a great way to end my birthday weekend.