What's my best option to improve my last place speed on a hybrid with regular pedals in a triathlon race?

Should I get clipless pedals, race tires, make other adjustments, or just practice more short of buying a road bike? I was the only hybrid in the race. I finished a hilly(for me)12 mile race in 55 minutes. Most everyone was at least ten minutes faster. I wasn’t planning on buying a road bike until next year. What one step will make the most difference in speed?