The Sweet Smell of Success!

"Lady, lady, LADY, . . . you're not moving!"
He was yelling at me but with a purpose; I wasn't moving but I thought I was. On some primal level I appreciated that this nice, kayak traveling, volunteer man, was trying to get my attention and help me move along. The waves were battering me, every time I tried to take a breath a leg or arm hit me and as hard as I tried, I couldn't seem to relax. Finally, I flopped on to my back and began a weird backstroke and made enough progress to finish the first leg of my Tri-a-thon. Although only 400 meters, it felt like 4000 meters to me. I kept reminding myself even as I tried to feel present to the moment, this was something I choose to do.


Riding my bike was fun and I felt comfortable and in my element. It was mostly flat with an occasional small hill or slight incline and I was able to make up time there.

The run was okay although it was fairly hot by then. I walked/ran the first 1/4 of it but finally settled down, caught my breath and ran the remainder. No one older passed me and I actually passed a couple of runners who were considerably younger. Hey, what ever it takes to keep those feet moving! Coming finally to the finish line I surprised myself by feeling a swell of emotion, almost as if I could cry. I did it! I finished my first triathlon - sure it was a mini version but I did it, I finished with a time that was better than I anticipated. One hour, thirty-nine minutes and that includes seven minutes of transition time!

Will I do it next year? Probably. But that's a little like asking a woman who's just given birth if she's ready for the next child.
I am so grateful for the support of Peter, It was a blessing to have my son there cheering me on. Dana, Janet, and Laurie and Tim, provided such wonderful hospitality. And finally, Eva and Gordy who talked me into this whole thing, I am grateful for their friendship and encouragement.

I read somewhere that everyday you should do something that scares you. Well today, mission accomplished! I was very apprehensive and maybe a little scared. But now, well now, I feel fantastic! Life sure can be a wonderful adventure.