#390 Lowman, Leigh 36 F Swim-41:10 Pace-2:45 T1-3:32 Bike-1:58:40 Pace-13.2 T2 1:39 Run-1:16:09 Pace-12:16 Total Time-4:01:08
So, a year's worth of training came to fruition this past weekend as Nancy Herbert and I participated in the Tugaloo Olympic Triathlon. A lofty goal, the Tugaloo is one of the hardest triathlon courses in Georgia. It consists of a one mile swim, 26 mile bike, and 6.2 mile run, in that order. Might I mention that this is a qualifying race for the Ironman Hawaii.
Now I have participated in two half marathons, many 5ks and 10ks, and several sprint triathlons. Nothing compared me for this. And if I thought I was going to do well, I was sadly mistaken. While life made it difficult to truly train for this triathlon, I quickly realized that this was a triathlon for young, fit, beautiful, cut people...except for the few 60+ year old hard-core competitors. Waaaaay out of my league.
I did have a few goals.
1. I did not want to finish last.
2. I did not want to quit.
3. I wanted to complete the entire race in less than 4 1/2 hours.
4. I did not want to drown, wreck, or fall.
5. I wanted to finish before they took down the Finish Line, so my name would be called over the microphone.
I realize that I met all of my goals.
1. I finished like, 10th to last.
2. I did not give up and actually felt good throughout the race.
3. I completed the race in 4 hours 1 minute and 8 seconds.
4. I did get water up my nose, wobbled a few times on some potholes, and stumbled on the run.
5. I finished and had my named called right before they took down the Finish Line.
I cannot think of anything that is physically more stressful, difficult, and yet so fulfilling, than to complete an Olympic triathlon. Crossing the finish line, knowing I had accomplished my goals, and knowing I was still lucid and happy, was such a great feeling. Don't get me wrong. I felt every last second of the entire race. I talked to myself, talked to others, made fun of myself, and cheered on those who seemed to be struggling.
I do not think I will compete in a race like this again, but I am so thankful to know that I did it. I will cross it off my Bucket List and know I did the best I could do. I do stand by an earlier, relevant observation, though. No man, no matter how lovely, should EVER wear just a Speedo. Gross.
