Root River Triathlon

I believe my next race will be the Root River Triathlon on May 19 in Houston, MN. I've been looking for a triathlon, but have not yet signed up. I need some help with the swimming portion, and I have yet to convince my local Y to provide a stroke clinic, like I've seen offered at other Ys. Luckily, this one starts with a canoe rather than a swim. It is also weighted toward the runner, with an 8 mile bike ride and a 3 mile run. Most tris I've seen are 12 mile bike rides and 5k runs.