I did my first triathlon in Sept. 2008 as both a dare and a challenge put to me by my brother-in-law. He was to swim, i was gonna bike and my sister was to run. A 28 mile bike ride sounded "doable" enough, except i didn't have a bike and the race was 3 weeks out. What was i thinking? I ended up learning a valuable lesson in both preparation and perseverance. I finished the race but was so sore i couldn't walk.  The inaugural Beach to Battleship was a couple months later and I went out to cheer them all on with my 3 young kids. I was truly inspired not only by the distance these participants would be covering but how different each of them were! There were all ages and athletic abilities, yet all working towards the same goal and finish line! And to think i was complaining about my 28 mile bike ride! Needless to say that day began the journey of deciding i would try to accomplish just a piece of what these athletes were doing. I wanted to inspire others (as i was inspired) and show my family that the impossible is possible with hard work, training and setting a goal that you believe in! 

 

B.How you balance training, family, work, and life in general:-)

I must admit that finding the time to train with 3 kids (ages 7, 5, and 3) can be challending at times. Most of the training time is done on my own when i can fit it into our busy family schedule. But the key is making the time! Try not to feel guilty about it and enjoy the rewards that it will bring to your life and your families life! Be a role model for your kids and the rewards will outweigh the guilt! :) 

 

C.Good Training Tip

Be sure your are comfortable on your bike...comfort and fit is key! You will put a lot of hrs on your tush and you want to make sure your back and rear end love you! You don't need a pricey bike to train - but you do need to be comfortable. Get the proper fit from your local bike shop and make sure to tweak as necessary!  Also be sure to pump up your tires before EVERY ride :)  I learned this the hard way! 

 

D.Races that you are most proud of and why

I did seven races in 2009 and am proud of everyone. I am most proud to say that my family was there cheering me on at EVERY single race. They are the reason i do it and they continue to inspire and motivate me. I am most proud of my final race at BEACH TO BATTLESHIP 1/2 ironman where my goal was to finish under 6 hrs. I finished at 5hrs 27min and did it with a smile! 

 

E. Inspirations and any inspirational quote that you may have