The Great Triathlon Comeback:
Once upon a time, over a decade ago, I did my first triathlon without nearly enough training for what I was in for. Fast forward to now, and I’ve decided it’s time for redemption. But not just any redemption – this time, it’s personal. My brother-in-law, let’s call him “The Challenger”, threw down the challenge, and I picked up and said, “Game on!”
The Training:
Training began with a slight hiccup – my Garmin watch decided to take a permanent vacation. But fear not, for I convinced my wife that a new one was essential for my “transformation”. Plus, I borrowed her roadie, a bike so sleek it probably thinks it’s too good for me.
My wife, my biggest cheerleader, has spent the last decade globetrotting for triathlons, and I figure if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em. So, I did.
The Challenger, however, had a swim phobia. We did a practice swim in the ocean where he could stand if needed, but once he got comfy, he was swimming Back and Forth’s like there was no tomorrow.
Race Day Drama:
Carb loading? Check. Three nights of pizza and pasta because, why not? Transition bag? Packed with the precision of a spreadsheet checklist.
The swim was smooth, but T1 threw me a curveball – forgot to put on my race belt. Rooke mistake. The bike leg was my Achilles’ heel, and The Challenger’s forte. I planned to fuel up with a gel, but guess what? Left it in T1.
Then, I made a wrong turn. A volunteer pointed me back. “That’s why we’re here”, they said.
The Run of Glory:
T2, and I’m thinking I’ve lost several minutes to The Challenger. I downed the gel, now my secret weapon. Found an SSG club member, and like a stealthy ninja, I drafted behind. When the gel kicked in, I felt like I was running on clouds. I overtook my draft buddy, who complimented my “cloud-running” technique, and I finished strong, just 19 seconds from 3rd place.
The Aftermath:
Woke up the next day, not felling like I’d been hit by a truck, which was a win in itself. Signed up for Race 2, because apparently, I’m a glutton for punishment. The Challenger? He’s in too. Is it the sport we’re hooked on, or just the sibling rivalry? Only time will tell.
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