Dear Newbie,
                    There are several questions you ask.

Q. Is it a good race for your first triathlon?

A. Yes and No!

 Yes because it is friendly and of a non standard distance. It is much cheaper than most races. Also as the order of disciplines  is different from the norm you do not have to cope with running after the bike.

 No; because it is open water (sharks etc, perhaps a bit cold for them!) and the order is disciplines is different so will not help you with running after the cycle. Also as it is a mass start you can see where you are in the field. Usually towards the rear for novices, which can be disconcerting. Just go at your own pace and enjoy it, think of the donuts at the end.


Q. Will you cope with the swim?

A. No one has drowned yet. Only you know if you can do the distance in open water, which will be cold (wet suits compulsory). Doing the distance is one thing, but getting battered by starting too near the front is another. Start at the rear and if you can work through the field do, if you can't relax, do not waste energy trying to swim 30secs faster.

Q. Are there any other tips.

A. I notice your posting was after 10 at night..my God that is well past my bedtime. Sleep a lot, eat a lot,  and DO NOT over train.
    The race is competitive at the front (I never knew this until I stopped racing and took up watching), but does that matter for your first event?

Enjoy it.