In essence, yes, [@EruditeAssassin], to escape a Grapple. You beat the check initially, so you should be good to take a normal action.

[Hider=Escaping a Grapple]
[b]Escaping a Grapple:[/b] A grappled creature can use its action to escape. To do so, it must succeed on a Strength (Athletics) or Dexterity (Acrobatics) check contested by your Strength (Athletics) check.
[/Hider]
You could however, use your breath weapon reasonably in a grapple if you were grabbed.

You are not grappled since you beat the opposed Athletics check.