Swimming laps at the pool has its challenges, but for women taking on the Danskin Triathlon June 8, dirty bandages are the least of their worries.

The swimming portion of the triathalon will take place in a lake, and first time triathlete Tracy Wright has never competed in an open water race.

"I'm a little bit apprehensive about the open water swim," she said.

Tri Zones Swim Coach Kim Allen said Wright is not alone; many women are nervous about taking on Decker Lake.

"What they are dealing with is anxiety related to being in a lake where you can't see the bottom," Allen said.

First time triathlete Lisa Johnson said the length of the swim doesn't ease her nerves. The swim is half a mile.

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Tri Zones coaches meet with the triathletes at Circle C pool in South Austin every other week, and the women do drills aimed at perfecting strokes and breathing.

The women will also hold a few practice sessions at Decker Lake, according to Tri Zones coach Tracy Nelson.

"You have to practice in open water," Nelson said. "We like to have people get in open water at least two or three times before race day."

Allen said succeeding at the triathlon is not only about swimming technique, but having a mental plan.

"Have a plan for rough water," Allen said. "I have a plan for rain. I have a plan for when people kick water into my mouth.

On race day first time triathletes should take it easy, the coaches said.

"When the gun goes off for their wave, stop and wait," Nelson said. "Count 10 seconds and let everyone else go."

If all else fails there help will be standing by at the triathlete.

"They are going to have dozens of dozens of kayaks," Nelson said. "They will have life guards out there. They will also have swim angels who go along with noodles and they escort people along the race."

With just four weeks of training behind them, triathlete Lisa Johnson said she already feels more confident.

"I'm feeling so much better. I feel stronger," Johnson said.

Allen said the real strength will be felt on race day.

"To be afraid at one moment and not want to do it, and then wind up getting out and going, 'I did it.' That's great," she said.

Allen said she can't wait to see her current triathletes-in-training experience that kind of success.

Next Sunday, News 8 Austin's Veronica Castelo explores more ways to conquer the triathalon.

And for tips on training for this triathlon or just getting started log on to our sports section of the Web site.