The holiday season is typically a time where we verbalize our gratefulness and thanks for our fortunes and blessings. I too will take this time to share with you what I am thankful for, as it relates to triathlon and endurance sports.
1) I am thankful for my wife [A.K.A my better half] for her support as I participate in triathlon by giving me the time me to train, to race, and traveling to races with me. In the last 11 years my wife has only missed one race. Now that's support! This of course means time away from home, early bed times, early wake-ups, and missing social functions. [Now let's be honest, missing some of these functions can often be a blessing, but you only know that after you have arrived to see the Jello mold on the table.]
2) I am thankful for the Race and Series Directors for putting on excellent events. As participants we do not see or even realize the amount of time and effort that goes into putting on a race that is exciting, challenging and safe.
3) I am thankful for the volunteers at all events. Without them we would not be able to race. This is especially true of long distance events (70.3 and IM) where there are thousands of participants over a huge distance. So instead of getting grumpy if an aid station volunteer gives you water instead of Gatorade, thank them for standing in the sun/rain/wind/night to ensure you finish the race. The volunteers invest as much emotionally into these races and they get as much satisfaction from volunteering as you do from racing.
4) I am thankful for my health. No further explanation needed.
5) I am thankful for all the great people I've met at races. From the IM world champion [at different races] to ITU pros to first timers. We are all part of a special tribe and it's great that we can celebrate our enthusiasm for the sport together. Many of the people I've met I'm still in contact with.....so say hello to the person next to you in transition...they may become a special person in your life.
6) I am thankful for those who have read this blog. I appreciate the time you take, and I hope in some way it is entertaining, informative, and helpful. Feel free to share with others, and if there is a topic you are interested in, let me know.
I wish all of you a fantastic holiday season, and the very best for the 2012 season. This will be my last post for 2012 so until next year, keep tri'n.
