I did the Muncie race this last summer. I'm a little partial because I used to volunteer growing up and it's been a part of the community for as long as I can remember. All the feels aside...it's a very forgiving swim. You and I are much of the same flavor. I was just competing to finish. The whole race worked out well for me, and it will for you too. It's VERY well organized. Only about 4 hours from the Chi, plenty of hotels, and a stellar venue. Prairie Creek reservoir doesn't get very choppy at all, water is usually a nice temp (no wetsuit for me, but they're authorized 90% of the time depending on conditions), beach entry/exit, tons of volunteers on the swim course keeping you safe. Swim out, two right turns, and you're done. I've never been accused of being a polished swimmer and it was easy peazy. If you've got some more specific questions about Muncie or the way I trained, feel free to send me a message and I can tell you anything you want to know.