Life is like a Triathlon.
Last weekend I participated in a Sprint Triathlon: 500 M swim, 12.4 mile bike, and 5K run. The event was the second that I have done in my life. The first one was twenty-four years ago . When I signed up for that one I was in the “spontaneous” time of my life, living in New England without much of a plan. My training consisted of inconsistent bike rides, a few runs here and there, and not staying at parties as long as my other friends. I didn’t “train” per say, or recognize the significance of the task I was about to try to complete. My recollection. although a bit fuzzy, was that it was NOT real fun. I struggled in the pool, never having any real form to apply and my only goal being to not drown. The bike ride consisted of winding roads which I did on my mountain bike with thick tires. I remember wanting to puke when I started running, but somehow managed to cross the finish line, and reward myself with a beer.
Fast forward to my forties. An epiphany about what is “fun” started in my mid-thirties, consisting of running, exercise, and challenging my body beyond it’s limits. Call it a second chance, if you will. My sister-in-law hatched an idea in my head last summer about doing a triathlon. It was a great opportunity to expand my preference for long-distance running into swimming and biking, since those activities are kinder on my knees. I enjoyed the process of feeling more confident in the water, and getting out to ride my bike more often.
Our start time was not until 10:30am, since there were only six pool lanes. We were excited to be in the same heat and sharing the same lane-although a little weary of making each other laugh in the pool. We were assigned to the very last lane, and Mona was right against the side with the swimming pool lift. As we started swimming I pulled a little bit in front of her, later to find out it was because I swam into her lane and she ran into the lift. Here I thought I actually was FASTER than her! We ended up finishing the ten laps together and ran out the carpeted run into the transition area.
The transition area is where you store your gear for the next leg of the race. Before the race we racked our bikes, laid out our biking clothes and set a towel to stand on when we came out of the pool . As organized as I thought we were I had trouble squeezing my wet body into my biking shorts. As we took off from the gate I noticed I had forgotten to zip up my windbreaker so I wished Mona well and she was on her way. The bike ride was scenic, winding around the Bitterroot River, up around several hills. I tried to stay focused on the beautiful spring weather. We had lucked out, as the forecast had called for rain/snow mix and high winds. We had a few sprinkles, but Mother Nature came through for us. 6.2 miles out, and then back. I kicked it in a gear when a few participants from the next heat passed me. Even though I was going just against myself I still had a bit of a competitive drive.
From the bike I entered the transition area again. I threw off my windbreaker, helmet, and the wool socks I had thrown over my running shoes to keep my feet from freezing while I was biking. I couldn’t find my running visor so I rummaged through my bag and found a winter hat, which I hastily threw on. I was clumsy and tired but ready to run. As I ran out the gate I felt pretty good, but also heavy in the legs. I was encouraged by a few well wishers telling me I looked strong. Well, if I looked strong, I surely was strong, right? It took about a mile to get my rhythm, then that familiar feeling of running came back. I knew that feeling well-the rhythm of my breathing coordinating with the rhythm of my feet, which I have been practicing diligently for seven years now. My familiar friend, my running-just a little bit slower than I was used to.
I made it through the 5k and managed to even pass someone on the last leg of the race. My family and Mona were there cheering me on at the finish line, and I finished strong. Unlike 24 years ago I felt powerful. Vibrant. Healthy even! I came in at 1:39:30. I was hoping to come in under two hours so I felt very proud. Mona kicked it in at 1:29:57 and tackled her insecurities about the swim.
running in strong at the end
Life is like a Triathalon. Sometimes we are swimming or sinking, pedaling hard or coasting, running wild or stepping slow. Life makes us keenly aware, in the times of transition, that there is a clock ticking. Transitions are not always easy, or smooth. Life presents opportunities to practice those transitions over and over but no matter how we have our thoughts laid out or our gear in place we may be missing essential tools and stumble. The important thing is to learn from it, keep going, be flexible, be sturdy. Let your friends and family be your biggest cheerleaders, and draw strength from their insight. Recognize it is okay to lean on them for support when you feel weary. Learn to ask for what you need.
If I can do it, you can to. I am so thankful I learned this little lesson twenty-four years after it was presented to me the first time. And that, my friends, is why I tried the Tri again.
LIFE LESSON: If at first you don’t learn the lesson, try, tri again.
Mo and Jen tasting success!
