It will be 10 years between my first triathlon and my Half Ironman. I’ve done a lot over those ten years. We’ve traveled the country, changed jobs, survived a “pandemic,” and most importantly had both our kids.
I’ve not been keeping up with my exercising over that span either. I’ve put on weight, noticed some crackling in my joints, and gotten winded much easier as well.
However, I’ve made the commitment to make this change and I plan on sticking with it. Memories, whether they’re from Facebook, Google, or just in one’s head, can be reminders and motivators at the same time.
Blast from the past
Back in 2013, I was running consistently with the greatest run group ever, in Run Chaska. Our saying was, “What’s better than running? Running with friends!” It truly is better with friends, especially for me.
I was also cross training in the pool with Coach Amanda. Every Wednesday evening, I’d look forward to being pushed hard in the pool and going home exhausted, but feeling that it was worth it.
We did a little biking on the side, too. There was an event in July called the lazyman Ironman. You’d have the entire month to complete the distance for the full Ironman. Some of us (Brian) may have cut it close, but completed it nonetheless!
River City Days Triathlon 2013
So with all the cross training I was doing, I got talked into doing Chaska’s River City Days Sprint Triathlon. I don’t recall who or how, but I signed up.
I remember swimming the clayhole, having Brian cheering by my wife for me (while updating friends on my status). I also remember seeing Rachel Nelson on the bike trail working with Chaska PD to keep the trail safe. But that feeling I got when coming down the hill of my run to the finish was so exhilarating! I want that again! I will experience that feeling again!
