Swimming always sucks at first if it isn't a regular hobby, even if you are capable. Everyone is gasping for breath a few laps into their first training session, and the idea of doing it continuously for 500, 750, 1500 meters (or 2.4 miles in an Ironman) seems impossible.

You do get better fast with practice. You calm down with muscle memory. Your CO2 tolerance improves quickly. You learn to relax.

There are great YouTube channels to watch for tips - Total Immersion was my favorite to learn from. 2-beat kicks, focus on efficiency and not aggressively kicking and pulling.

Also, once you commit to a race date, some practice in open water is mandatory. The difference between pool swimming and open water where you need to sight for direction, can't see the black line on the bottom, and don't get the wall turns every 25 to 50 meters is huge. That's where the panic hits and you forget your training and start gasping for breath. You need a few sessions in open water to get the feel.

Email me if you'd like more details.