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April 20, 2005
some final thoughts
So here I am, four days before my event, 36 hours before I leave for Florida. The last week has been a mixed bag of emotions. Sometimes when I think about this weekend, I find my self feeling anxious and hesitant about the event. Other times, that anxiety has transformed itself in to an anticipation similar to the feeling a child gets on Christmas eve waiting to see what Santa will bring. But more often than not, I find myself thinking about the race and wave of calmness washes over me. It’s almost euphoric. Knowing that I’ve put my time in training, and that I’m in the best shape of my life has helped shift the emotional balance in a productive direction.
The single source of my anxiety is the pressure that I’ve put on myself to perform well. I feel I have an opportunity to race well and put down a quick time. A lot of that hinges on the swimming portion of the triathlon. I have no doubts that I can finish the 1500 meters, but a large part of me wants to well so that strong times on the bike and on the run will mean more. I try to balance this pressure by telling myself that even though this is a race, I always have the option of taking it easy and just enjoying the experience. Of course I come back with the knowledge that if I don’t give it my all, I’ll be regretting as soon as five minutes after I cross the finish line. But I know that there will be other races and regardless of what happens on the course, I’ll be able to take away something.
Even if I never cross the finish line in Florida, or even set foot in the water, I’ll know that I’ve made some great friends, and we’ve shared some amazing experience. I have no doubt that this weekend will be a fantastic culmination of the past six months. Looking back at this time, I’ve found more in Team in Training than I had ever expected. And most importantly, I have a great feeling knowing that my time spent training and fundraising is benefiting those who are facing challenges that far surpass mine.
It’s been one heck of trip. Thanks to my fellow teammates, coaches and staff for making this an experience that I won’t soon forget. Wish me luck!
Posted by ksmith at April 20, 2005 06:54 PM
Comments
I see you placed in the top 30% overall! Congrats!
Posted by: Keacher at April 26, 2005 03:49 PM
You rocked out there! I'm glad I got to witness the man in action. You should be really proud of all that you accomplished while on the team. Now on to bigger and better things...
Posted by: Moe's Mom at May 9, 2005 05:14 PM