A few things I learned over 2012 race season

A success from each race

Around the Bay - I can run for a long distance.  After many years of not running I proved to myself, with Dr. Jason's help, that running could happen  again.


Sprint distance in Austin, Texas - First outdoor swim of the year and without a wet suit.  I can not describe what happened but at this race I learned I love swimming.  I do still have some fear but it is  manageable now.

Guelph Olympic - Discovered drinking eLoad as soon as I get on the bike helps keeps me going for the duration.

Kingston Long  - How training for a duathlon and  a triathlon are so different.  Given the option to replace a tri with a du would I do it again?  As I type, my answer would be no but on race day things might change.  I think for a few of us this race showed how much one needs to find the will power to finish. 
 
Muskoka 70.3 - Coach said it the best in his blog the other day ... " The last "time" I looked it was called the "Finishers Tent" not the first place tent! : )"  Finishing, doing the best one can and being happy with that is all we can really ask of ourselves.

The supporting cast:

The Coach - A person who provides the plan to let you accomplish your dreams but knows you better than yourself most times.  Not only during race season but what is best for you on the off season.

The Chrioprator  - An athlete himself who understands we all have the "heart" of an athlete in us and will keep our bodies as healthy as they can be during the months of intense training.

Training buddies - they push you, they help by listening to your fears, boosting your moral and help wipe the tears. 

Mentors - A group of seasoned triathletes who take the newbies under their wings, become their friends and provide valuable advice for each and every race while showing us how to have fun while preparing for the race.  Some show us that no matter the cost physically they are determined to train for the race, start the race and give it their all - true heroes of this sport.

Family - Some encourage and some don't understand but in their own way they are all cheering their athlete to reach their goal of crossing the line.


Health - There is nothing more important then your health.  It can literally change in a heart beat so do what you can now to become a healthier you.  Eating well and walking will do the trick.  No need for the craziness that some of us have in us.

Faith - Trusting in your inner strength or resolve that somehow gets you past the pain, misgivings and gets you to the finish line. 

What am  I'm looking forward to this fall/winter training season?

Reduced training schedule results in more time for family, friends and honey dos
Two swim classes to work on technique and maybe just maybe I'll be stronger next year
Two spin classes and waiting to hear what each class will be called.  Will Oatmeal be repeated?
Hitting the gym.
Catching up with my tri-buddies in the swim and spin classes.