Acworth Women's Triathlon

Today I raced in the Acworth Women's Sprint Triathlon, my third triathlon this season. With over 500 participants, the race brings in women from all around the area, many of which are first-time triathletes. It is a great opportunity for women to get out there and race and not feel pressure from the men (sorry guys), which can be intimidating, especially if you have never done a race before.

I was very excited about the race, because I finished 2nd overall Master's (which is basically anyone over 40 years old), and 22nd overall. I raced well, and what probably "won" me the 2nd place award was my transition times, which is when you go from the swim to the bike, and then the bike to the run. My times in the 3 sports were all good, yet I think it was getting out of the transition area before other women in my age group is what helped me a lot. Usually my transitions slow me down, but not this time, so that was exciting (though I didn't know my transitions were fast until after the race when I saw the results).

I know I "passed" people in transition, yet the most satisying one was a woman I passed at about the 1.5 mile mark on the run (a 3.7 mile run all together). She was the only one to pass me on the bike and I worked hard to catch her, and then had to keep on running hard so she wouldn't catch me. I was very tired as I finished, and heard lots of people calling my name as I was running down the finish chute, but I was too tired to look and say hi.

Sometimes I wonder why I push myself and what motivates me, but I guess it is just the competitive spirit within me. Winning awards is extra motivation and certainly nice, and usually pushes me to work harder. I like racing because it gives me something to aim for, a goal, and an extra reason to stay in shape. Next up is a triathon in September, so until then.....

What motivates you? I encourage you to find something you like, whether its running, triathlon, tennis, yoga or whatever it is, and get involved, participate, and have fun. It can bring rewards to everyone who does it, in some way or another. Enjoy!