Three years ago, I was introduced to triathlons. As a long-time runner, I’ve always been active. But I was seeking something different in my life – a sport in which I wouldn’t get bored, something that would challenge me both physically and mentally, and nurture my soul throughs the ups and downs of life.
I was looking for a sport that would get me through my lowest of lows. And be with me on my highest of highs.
And I found it in triathlons.
Five years ago, I could barely ride a bike and had no idea what an open water swim was. I thought “bricks” were what walls and buildings were made of. Wetsuits were what scuba divers wore. And anybody that would PAY to compete in THREE sports in the SAME DAY were all CRAZY.
Boy have I learned a lot and come a long way since then.
I’ve learned that it’s not for the faint of heart. If the rigorous training schedule isn’t enough to deter you, the cost may very well be. Multi-sport training requires time and money. And a lot of it. It’s often week after week of push and pull. Push enough to build strength, skill and endurance. Pull back enough to recover, rest and not overtrain.
Last year, I found a group of women who are just as crazy as I am and love the sport just as much as I do. In a sport that is still relatively male dominated, it’s been a game changer. We swim, bike, and run together. We show up early on Saturday and Sunday mornings, making sure no one gets left behind on long bike rides or runs. We volunteer our time, training first time triathletes and beginners in the sport. We encourage each other through hard training sessions and celebrate the wins on race day.
By and large, though, the biggest reason I choose to participate in this sport has nothing to do with swimming, biking or running.
It has everything to do with confidence.
Tri has provided me with the courage to move forward, take risks, believe in myself and do things I thought were never possible. It’s encouraged me to do more and think less. It’s forced me to let go of doubts and things that I can’t control. And focus on what I can control. It’s urged me to change things that aren’t working and be self-assured in the way I meet my circumstances, whether wonderful or difficult.
And for that reason. And that reason alone, I will continue to love and pursue it. It’s made me a better person - physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually – and a more kind human being.
I’m blessed to have found a sport I love and a community of women who support each other in it.