I've been checking the net for tri's around here and there isn't much at all to choose from that doesn't involve a days travel (can't afford that stuff yet).
There's a triathlon club in town that is $40 membership and they hold mini tri's every month of varying distances. Typically around 400/15/5, and only like $5 to compete. So I'm going to join up and see how that goes. Might plan on hitting some of the biggers ones the year after.
Going to be great training for something in particular and a month at a time is about the drive I can muster.
Just thought I'd share.