2009 is your year to taste triathlon. As a triathlete, you'll surprise yourself as you face fears and set personal bests. You'll be more confident, have more energy and smile more often. People will be drawn to that difference. Triathlon is a rewarding sport for people of all ages and abilities. I hope to break down your obstacles: time, money, fear etc. Give triathlon a chance.
Triathlon is for you. Yes you. Triathlon is a great sport for people of all ages and abilities.
Triathlon offers something for anyone, any age. Our son Truitt's first youth triathlon included a 50-yard swim (kickboards allowed), 1-mile bike and .4-mile run. He finished his first race in 19 minutes and 19 seconds.
What do you think the finish line feels like? It's not too late to find out.
On the other end of the age spectrum, our former next-door neighbor Mary Stroebe continues to make news, break records and serve as an amazing role model. Mary shows us it’s never too late to try something new. Mary got started in triathlon at age 75. She’s completed over 12 races. And, at age 89 Mary went head-to-head with TV host Kelly Ripa in a timed triathlon in New York City.
You'll also find inspiration listening to Growing Bolder's interview with Sister Madonna Buder. She's known as the "Nun on the Run." She didn't become a runner until she was 48 years old. She's finished 40 marathons and 34 Ironman triathlons. And at age 75 she became the oldest woman to finish the Ironman World Championship.
Don't miss Tony Handler's story. Handler is a six-time cancer survivor and master triathlete. Listen to his Growing Bolder interview here. Since his initial diagnosis 25 years ago he's finished 220 triathlons!
It’s so encouraging to see friends and family, young and old, falling in love with a sport like triathlon. Don't hide behind excuses. If the sport of triathlon appeals to you, stop and listen. Don't leave room for regret. Take a chance and say yes to triathlon in 2009.
You can train for your first sprint triathlon (1/4-mile swim, 15-mile bike and 3.2-mile run) in a few months. Depending on your current fitness level, and your goals, you can train for your first event in as few as 4-6 hours a week.
Other good articles:
Excuse #1 - I have no time.
Excuse #2 - I can't afford it.
Your First Triathlon
What the Finish Feels Like
Resources: Since you'll probably register for your first event using active.com, take a minute and check out active's triathlon community. There is a section just for beginners, where no question is stupid.
Photo: Truitt racing at his second youth triathlon the next summer. His youngest brother Elias was disappointed the race didn't allow 4-year-olds to compete. Maybe this year Elias.
