Double flat ending my race before it started
I figured nothing could go wrong after 6 months of dedicated training, including a two-week taper. Until I had a flat rear tire on my way between the second and first transition zone. No problem: I always carry a spare tire and repair tools, and had the time to walk to T1, replace the tire and use the pump they provided there. But to no avail: the spare tire couldn't hold any air either. At this point, T1 was basically closed off, and there was no time to figure out what was wrong and no one to lend a tire from. A DNF was looming. I barely made it to the swim start, swam surprisingly well considering I forgot my goggles in T1, picked up my bike and left the race.
It definitely wasn't the race I had in mind, but I still learnt a lot. I learnt that a spare tire isn't an unnecessary luxury. Surprisingly few people at the event had a saddle pack to carry equipment. I also learnt that I should never identify myself by my race results, because that is bound to lead to disappointment. Most importantly, I learnt (again) that my friends and family are awesome and that they will support me no matter how the race turns out. They did a great job of consoling me and cheering me up after I left the race. I even received some messages from people that couldn't come over and only heard afterwards how it went.
Rest day today, back to training tomorrow. Onwards and upwards!