Triathamom

August 17, 2013

I competed in my first triathlon a few weeks ago. It was amazing! I loved every minute of it. I felt so strong the entire race. As soon as I finished I wanted to start over and do it again.

I did two run-throughs the two Saturdays before the race. Both times I encountered many problems: flat tire, ripped swim cap, low energy, dehydration, heat, forgotten water bottle and gum, and slow times. I am glad now that I went through those things because I was prepared for all of it race day, which was perfectly smooth. I even shave 17 minutes off my practice times!

I was nervous before the swim, though it went well. The bike portion was fun. I passed a lot of people on the uphill parts but when it came time to shift back for the downhill parts, my bike wouldn't cooperate so I coasted most of the way. The run was mostly uphill but I took it slow and steady. Again I passed people on the uphill but they passed me on the down; my knees don't like when I run too fast downhill.

I finished strong and was so excited to see my kids meet me to accompany me to the finish line. Everyone had their age stamped on the back of her left calf; one woman was 70! I was so impressed. I want to be competing then, too. Bailey wants to do it with me next year, though I was glad to do it alone this year. I didn't have any mp3 player or anything. I just kept my mantras present and enjoyed every moment. I am so proud of myself. I was terrified to try something like this but I did it and came out conqueror, at least in my eyes. :)  I have found a new sport.