Past President
Close out the Season
As we close out the season, I reflect on a recent Facebook post from a member. She completed her first Ironman. She sometimes slept 2-3 hours a night to work, fit training and general life in. She did a lot of training alone. She went to the race alone. When she finished the race she just felt like it wasn’t the big accomplishment she expected it to be. You watch all of the Ironman branded events with the crowds and the lights, how could that not light you up and make it feeling amazing?
Another friend finished her race, full time job, life full throttle. Her father had recently passed, so she was dealing with some emotions. She, on the other hand, had an amazing race. She felt fulfilled and joy at the end of the race. What was different?
As triathletes, we do an individual sport and we love that. What we don’t realize is that even though we do an individual sport, we thrive on connection. Having family who support our races and our training make a huge impact. Having friends who make the long hours pass quickly are so needed.
I got my first, and hopefully only, DNF (Did Not Finish) at an ultra 100k. I signed up for the same distance a month later because I had something to prove to myself. My coach wanted to go to cheer me on and provide moral support. I didn’t want him to waste his time if I failed again. I kept trying to push him away and not “bother” him. He refused to be pushed away and showed up anyway. He left to get some lunch and my next few laps were very lonely and I felt empty. I hadn’t understood the impact of his support and presence until that moment.
For your next season, try making some connections. Ride with other tri club members, ask your spouse to come support you at your race or just to give you water refills during your training. You would be amazed how much brighter and better the experience is.
~Shawna Glasser
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