September 2024 Week 2: Ironman Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia!
This time got the medal! Hehe! Not satisfied with myself for not being able to complete the previous triathlon at Desaru, i signed up for the supposedly easier race at Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia.
What a beautiful place with beautiful people!
The swim was the most challenging part for me still, but I performed much better this time, not need to go kayak to kayak like previously and am able to swim quite effectively. The clearer waters also allowed me to see other swimers in the water without having to lift my head periodically to see the buoys. Having the new wetsuit for the first time caused abrasion to my neck. The waters were much rougher than Desaru and cold.
When I transited out to bike and took off my wetsuit, i was shivering like crazy with the wind. Luckily it dried off quite fast with the sun. One difference from Desauru was that essentially there were only 2 refreshment points, one more need to cross to running side to access. Desauru had alot more points. But with the weather, it made quite a difference in performance even though alot of headwind.The run at noon was also bearable because only 20+ degrees. Just abit of slope but the view of sunshine coast is super nice!
While doing the bike check-in, i saw very nice houses with private berthing space for boat / sea plane: my kind of retirement home!
Also note because i got a very huge bike luggage so no need to take out seat nor handle bar, i was worried if the car can fit so many people and luggage. Luckily Kia Carnival actually can fit so many things. Note to self if go other ironman can rent this car.Overall so happy with myself for not giving up and trying again when i fail. I think i can look at other more scenic races. 
added the photos from official photographers. Woah! The shots are really better than the previous Desaru ones! Maybe because got view…
Also drove from Brisbane to Sunshine Coast, then to Gold Coast to spend time in Paradise Country, Warner Brothers Movie World and Sea World before heading to Sydney, stopping over at Port Macquarie. Met Joanne and Fabian at Sydney too.
