The who, what, where, and why of it all.

Last year, I made a decision that continues to rock the life I slipped into over the past 10 years or so. I realized that something wasn't jiving with who I thought I'd be at this point in my life, or really, who I wanted to be identified as. So, with a whole lot of soul searching about to happen, I bought a pair of running shoes and joined Team In Training.

I knew that running would be hard, but I didn't expect all the many side effects of spending my nights running instead of lazing around the house. I faced a lot of personal insecurities, literally battling old demons on the road that had remained quiet for a number of years. The most interesting thing about facing them, is that they then seemed to dissolve. Before I knew it, not only was I running 20 miles a week, but I was happy.... truly happy!

I did a couple of half marathons and handful of smaller races, I raised some money for cancer research, and in the midst of it all, I realized that I am still an athlete and competitor. Now, don't get the wrong idea... I am an athlete only in the sense that I like to enter races, but I'm not "RACING"! I'm not trying to be first, or even to not be last, I'm just trying to finish. You won't hear me boasting about my times because they'd leave most people snickering. But, snicker what you may, they're my times and I'm proud that I have times! You have to race and finish in order to get any time all!

I recently caught word about the Santa Cruz Triathlon Association (SCTA) and a program they're offering called "Nu2Tri". This program is a 4 month professionally lead series of trainings and instruction that is designed for the first-time triathlete. I paid my entry fee, and am now on my way to completing my first triathlon... yes, that's one race in which I will swim, bike, and run!

The reason why I started running was simple enough, but why tri? Well, why not? Running filled me with a new attitude that I should at least try out any activity that crosses my path. I'll never know if I can do something unless I give it a shot. Plus, it sounds like a nice change of pace, a way to broaden my physical ability without getting too bored. Running is wonderful, but it can definitely wear on you when you're carrying around the extra weight. So for this season, I'll be able to mix up my workouts, and get myself in shape to compete in 3 different events.

For the next 4-5 months, I'm going to find out what it takes for a seemingly new athlete to prepare for a triathlon for the first time. I figure, if I'm going to willingly skip out on a summer filled with margaritas and lazy weekends, then I better write it down!!!