Blazing Inferno to Flickering Flame

My journey into triathlon began in 2007. I was generally aware of the sport but became really interested after reading an article in Men's Fitness in which the writer and some friends trained for and competed in a local race. Although relatively active and fit these were regular guys. Having a fitness background and already enjoying the three activities separately I was intrigued to say the least. Through the miracle of the internet I quickly found a local race (sprint) that was the perfect introduction to the sport. I spent some grueling sessions in the pool in preparation and was excited to see the progression. You've heard the stories. From not being able to swim the length of the pool to cranking out meter after meter non-stop. The training, while lacking structure, was effective and though extremely nervous and excited the race went very well.

I will likely never forget laying back in my recliner the afternoon of the race basking in the glow of my accomplishment. I can clearly remember thinking "Now what? It's over." It was as if a switch had been thrown. My elation evaporated and was replaced with despair (okay, a little melodramatic I know). But it really was disheartening. Well most of you know what happens next. You fire up the computer and find and sign up for the next race. I ended up doing four races that first year with a pool, river, lake and ocean swim. I was on my way. Somewhere along the way I discovered this website and could not get enough. I tended to gravitate more towards posts and articles with a personal anecdotal leaning versus those that focused on detailed training/equipment/nutrition information. I have never been a particularly competitive person and true to that nature I have always been content to simply finish races uninjured and with a smile on my face. This has resulted in me being a solid MOPer. To me just preparing for, traveling to and completing a race is a small miracle considering all the things that could go wrong. I'm certain that had I chose to be more competitive I could have been. Not to say I would be elite but could certainly improve on finish times. For me it's a case of diminishing returns. I like my current approach.

Early on I was competing in 4-5 races a year. For me Ironman (iron distance) is the pinnacle of the sport. With the love and support of an amazing wife I achieved my iron dream in 2011. It was an incredible experience that I am extremely grateful for and will never forget. There was bit of let down after that race. I've considered another iron distance but there can only be one first time. That distance requires a great deal of sacrifice and commitment to successfully execute.

Fast forward to 2016. I have only raced twice in the last two years. There is a local race held close to our anniversary at a really nice venue. We make a it a long weekend and have a great time. We have done so the last five years or so and will likely do so this year. I have competed in a couple Tough Mudders of late and did a Spartan Race last November. These are a ton of fun and definitely provided a much needed change of pace. Inspired by a recent spate of movies (some pretty poor) on the topic I have been considering hiking sections of the Appalachian Trail. I guess it's in our nature to always be looking forward to the next adventure. It's pretty indicative of our American culture too I think. There is always something new and shiny to capture our collective imagination. Regardless of when or if my triathlon journey ends (I suppose it will end eventually), I will continue the pursuit of the physical and mental challenges that make me feel so very alive and I'm confident swimming, biking and running will always be part of this pursuit even if not in the organized format we know as triathlon .