When one sport isn’t enough and you fancy a challenge – why not tri a triathlon?
In May, we have seen the return of the virtual triathlon and many participants are using this as their first experience of the triathlon.
Carena Mills who completed her event Mid May shared her experiences of her virtual triathlon (or trauma as she describes it):
Trauma of a triathlon.
30 minutes trying to find my swimming costume, which once found I find is one size too big and only just about decent. Realise that I’d probably be thrown out with legs hairy enough to plait, so spend time sorting myself out. I’m knackered before I’ve left the house. Finally ready to go, anxiety kicks in and I start doubting myself big time.
Finished my swim and felt quite pleased with myself.
Thoughts: Why don’t the vending machines sell pickled onion monster munch for after swimming like they did when I was a kid?
Is 19 minutes a slow swim, guessing probably.
When did swimming become so expensive?
Bike ride, spend 15 minutes digging bike out from last summer, hidden behind 3 other bikes, 2 sledges, and a pop up tent. Think I’m ready to go until I realise that whilst pulling my bike out I’d pulled the chain off.
Mile 1, forgotten how hungry I got after swimming, mile 2 the 767 bugs I’ve eaten isn’t really filling the hunger. Mile 3 and 4, should have brought more drinking water. Mile 5 massive calf cramp. Mile 6, I remember how much I dislike bike riding.
Thoughts: flat rides are lovely until you realise that it means constant peddling.
Is an hour slow for 10k, I’m guessing so.
Run, ha, legs are done, fast walk at best..
Thoughts: don’t take kids or dogs if you want to do anything quickly.
I’ve come to the conclusion I’m a turtle in all aspects of physical activity.
All said and done, I’ve completed it all in about 5 hours, I’ve realised I’m not a quitter, and virtual triathlons are as good as it’s going to get. And #thisgirlcan.
For me personally, I have completed a number of triathlon and aquathlons so completely understand why you would be worried about transitions, how fast you are in the pool, on the bike, running, etc. And how will I ever be able to manage it all together?
The good news is the triathlons often cater for beginners – no one judges your times and as for transition – you can do it!
I very recently volunteered to assist at the Skegness Triathlon organised by SBR Events (check out their fantastic races heres: http://www.sbrevents.co.uk/). On Saturday, it was all about setting up the course – lots of signage,etc to put up with a team of great volunteers. For Sunday (race day), my main responsibility was to organise the swim. Alongside one other volunteer, we were in charge of getting every triathlete into the pool at their designated swim wave time and setting them off in the correct lane, plus briefing them accordingly.
I have to admit to feeling just as nervous as many of the athletes – I was responsible for the start of their race! However, I put my big girl pants on, smiled lots and took on my task with enthusiasm. Every 4 minutes (and 4 minutes isn’t a long time when you have this great responsibility!) I got 5 swimmers into the pool and set them off on their event. Less than 2 and a half hours later, I was very proud to say that we achieved our goal and every entrant set off as they should. We even received a glowing report from Triathlon England.
So, although triathlons are extra work, the reward is worth it! So go on, give a triathlon a go!