Very new newbie to triathlons - Triathlon Week

tinaczech29 · 04-30-2006, 03:59 PM

Hi Everyone,

I am very new to triathlons and could use a little guidance. I am training for a local race that involves 0.3 mile swim, 19 mile bike and 3 mile run. I know to most of you that's probably a really small race, but I have to start somewhere.

I am 35 and hope I'm not to old to start. I am athletically built and played multiple sports through high school. I also played ice hockey until about 1 year ago. I couldn't find a team close to my area anymore.

I am doing this race in memory of my dogs. I just lost my 2 1/2 year old lab mix on 4/27 to a brain aneurysm, my 12 1/2 year old lab on 1/2/06, my 4 year old lab on 3/21/04 to lymphoma and my 2 1/2 year old husky on 12/14/03 to a brain tumor. I am raising money that will be donated to our local humane society after the race. BTW, the race is June 24.

Does anyone have any pointers on anything? I am going to be using a mountain bike because it's a bike I'll continue to use when out joy riding. I am very nervous but the training is getting easier and it's something that I look forward to now. When it's raining, I still get out there.

I'll thank you in advance for anything you can offer. THANK YOU!!!

Celia · 04-30-2006, 06:31 PM

Hi! I did my first tri last year at 42. I've always enjoyed sports but can't claim that I was particularly competitive. I found the most helpful advice (assuming you can pretty much complete the distances) was to practice a run following a good bike ride. It's really a different sensation but something you adjust to after a few practices. I did a small local race and found a lot of more experienced athletes were really encouraging and helpful. Good luck- it's a lot of fun! Celia

sfricks · 05-01-2006, 05:29 AM

Welcome on Tina. My condolences for the loss of your pets. I admire you for making a positive out of a negative. Good job!

As far as Tri... There's a lot of good advise on this board. Keep typing and let us know what you need, where you are and what you're feeling and we'll provide the help and encouragement.

sprint50:43mike · 05-01-2006, 09:59 AM

Hi, Sorry about the pets. Thay will always be with you. This is a great sight for info, I did my first tri on a Mtn bike, out of 96 contestents I finished 94 and it was one of the greatist achevement of my 46 years, I love the tri and the life changing experance it has brought to my life. You will meet many great people along the way and one varry special person who is inside your heart.
Happy trails Mike