It was my first time doing Pacific Grove Oly race and just curious from vets if the kelp is always that bad. I am a pretty good swimmer (former collegiate swimmer) but that nasty shit stopped me in my tracks a few times. Usually I can easily manage 21-22 minutes in 1.5KM swim but nearly 25 minutes Saturday. Yikes that stuff was thick in some places. After the first lap I started to figure out the strategy and swim around it even if it meant going off line. Sometimes you have to say to hell with the pack in front of you and make your own way and I think that did help.

I would love to hear from those of you that have done the race a few times and comment on conditions vs prior years. Not that I am complaining...the clear skies were awesome despite somewhat rough seas and kelp. I must say it is about the prettiest race venue I have ever seen. Even my wife enjoyed this one and she hates coming to races.



Mike