New York City Triathlon 2014
Last February when I set out to create my race goals for 2014 I almost scared myself with my own ambition! I laid out my plan in my head then created a map of all the places and events I planned to do. At that time I planned three half marathons on Cape Cod (to earn a coveted jacket); ahalf marathon in Washington DC with my brother in March; the Iron Girl triathlon in July, the New York City triathlon in July and the Hartford Half Marathon in October. At the time this seemed like a very ambitious line up and, per usual, I was focused and a bit anxious about testing myself.
As the year rolled on and I was able to spend more time training I started to add to my race line up and by the end of the season I had completed five half marathons and five triathlons; two of which were Olympic distances. Each event brought its own challenges and rewards and I continued to learn about my limits.
- I learned that with consistent training you can enter and complete numerous events in a season. I was consistent with my training and paced myself in each race. I reminded myself that each race was “my race” and my competition was me. As a late bloomer in the race world I try to be realistic about my goals in each race. Granted who won’t love to win a place in your age group but I am aware that I have more years of training to get to that level. I am okay with the steady pace of improvement I have set for myself.
- I learned how important it is to hydrate; hydrate, hydrate, and just when you think you have that covered…hydrate more. You have to learn about the things that dehydrate you. I learned that dehydration can creep up on you quickly and harshly during the New York City triathlon weekend. Ultimately I had a great race but the pain of dehydration hit me like a rock during my bike to run transition.
- I learned just how much I love to have fans in the crowd. I did one race this year by myself. I met some great guys in the transition area and enjoyed the cheers of an acquaintance in the crowd but nothing replaces having your own fans hugging you at the finish line. With my continuing ambition to do multiple events in a season I realize that fans may not always be an option but never again will I refuse the invitation to have fans. Bring them on I say!
I am proud of what I was able to do in 2014.
Onto 2015!