Another newbie.... - Triathlon Week

bbcpt · 01-30-2004, 12:16 AM

I have a few questions that maybe you guys can help me with. I am planning on competing in my first triathlon in July... I have reviewed the times of the 10 top finishers in last years race and am very excited and confident that I can compete with those times in the bike and run...however I have no idea what a good or average swim time would be. I am a good swimmer but I need a time to focus on for the race.

I caught the triathlon bug from a fellow personal trainer (day job) who has competed in the iron man. Mainly because my motivation was low I began to train with him and we even put together a mini-triathlon event. Now I live to train and I think that I could be competitive with some of the better "sprint triathletes." Eventually I would love to make this a living but I know I have a lot to learn and experience to gain. Any advice or thoughts would be greatly appriciated. I have gone through the message board and there seems to be some good information already.

Also, how does someone become a "professional"? Does this "title" come with prize money or corporate sponsorships? Thank you for your time and any replies!!

Brian

Coach Cherilyn · 02-24-2004, 12:58 PM

Brian,

I can't answer your swim question because you haven't said what the times for the other swimmers were or what the distance is. You need to elaborate.

Do you think it's a good idea to be focusing so hard on beating other triathlete's times? You are looking at individual bike and run times, which sometimes don't compare to putting all three events together. A triathlon is not individual swimming, cycling and running. It is one race and the times that you put forward are going to be different, especially in your first race. Don't misunderstand me, I'm not trying to put you down in any way, I just want to suggest that maybe your focus should be on you instead of everyone else.

I am pretty unclear as to what your specific triathlon questions are except for your last paragraph about professionals. One becomes classified as professional by entering races in the pro category, which are not eligible for age-group awards. Triathletes don't usually turn pro until they are doing exceptionally well in the overall age races. If you find yourself placing overall in some of the major national races, you are probably on your way to turning professional. There are local races, regional races, national and international races. You would want to be placing pretty high in some national races to take it to the pro level.

Good luck with your journey, I hope it's a good one. Try to focus more on yourself and what you can do, rather than who's out there and can you beat their times. Trust me, I've been there, done that, and you need to be true to yourself.

Take care,
Cherilyn