you need to get in the ocean. i was surprised to find it EASIER than the pool. i had NEVER done any open water swimming before this month.. actually, i just learned to swim this summer and this weekend i completed my first sprint tri... if i can do it, anyone can. GOOD LUCK!

The best advice I can give you about open water/ocean swims besides "Go get Wet" is attend a swim clinic. Many triathlons usually sponsor (or have sponsors) run a clinic prior to the main event. They are helpful in getting you used to the water and conditions as well as teach you vital techniques for making your swim as successful as possible...best of all your with others learning the same thing. They can teach you about the basics of equipment and technique as well as giving you insight on local things to keep in mind. For example, I attended one before the LA Triathlon and learned about how the beach we'd be entering from is known to have some ruts/pits under the water and sprinting into the water uncontrolled could end up making you twist an ankle and end your triathlon before it started. Good Luck.