Morning all, I do not have a TT/Tri bike. Just asking folks thoughts on tri bars for full IM, are they required?

My Garmin 735xt smartwatch has finally given up, with the battery lasting about as long as a Meat Loaf 80’s power ballad. Could anyone out there recommend an alternative model (Garmin or otherwise) that doesn’t break the bank please? Was thinking of buying another 735xt but it’s at least 5y old tech so maybe there’s a better one out there? Any suggestions greatly appreciated! Cheers

Every year after the annual Celtman celebrations we usually get to reflect on collective performances. This year is the first time that every athlete who started the full distance completed with us picking up another 5 blue and 4 white shirts. Training Peaks used to recommend getting to a CTL of 145-185 prior to completion of a full distance triathlon and it's pleasing to see they now say 85-150+ depending on goals. CTL is termed as "fitness" but we would see it more as "consistency". Our data tells us year in year out that if you want to have a good day a CTL of over 100 is good insurance for a solid day out ( not always!) and that scores of 120-130 result in premium performances. 2 overall wins and oddly both were in the range 122-125 the day prior to the race. If you are sub 100 it doesn't automatically mean a sub par day but in all but 4 cases over 13 years under 100 is a DNS, DNF or a hard won white shirt. The 4 exceptions? 2 guys with priors - ie sub 10 IM performances and multiple years of banked training. The other 2 are really interesting as both were from a Hybrid background with a deep background with a high functional strength content. There is so much more to this but no 1 daughters graduation beckons! Later

Hi folks, Looking for advice and recommendations - - For open water use ow goggles or would pool goggles be fine? I use the magic5 mirrored in the pool - In the water should I wear neoprene swim cap or just fine with two normal rubber swim caps? - Jacket for the run - I use a Ron Hill jacket for running which I believe is waterproof, thoughts on this being acceptable so long as I have all other kit? Thanks

Hi All, we are heading to the white loch for the south side open water debut. I think its about 12-14c but not really sure. Hoping to get in the water btw 4-4:30pm. All welcome!