I went to my very first triathlon with no real idea what to expect. I went to the swimming area the day before and realized that the water was way colder than I expected it to be. I was able to get a triathlon wetsuit from a buddy that happened to fit well enough and that made a huge difference in my race. I am not really sure if I would have been able hopping in that lake at eight in the morning had I not had the wet suit at my disposal. I was sure grateful to that friend for having one on hand.