In my work over the last 2-1/2 years with the fortyninegroup, I've had the privilege of supporting and serving a number of tremendous individuals who happen to also be professional triathletes and coaches. Through them I've interacted with an even wider circle of runners, triathletes, paratriathletes, and entrepreneurs in sports.
I haven't shared a whole lot about what I do here on my blog, sort of on purpose. The focus of my blog is my own journey through the sport as a half-crazed sleep-deprived working mother who is climbing up the age groups.
But I'm going to break the "silence" to talk just a bit about my outside perspective of these top athletes. It's really a privilege to watch and learn from them.
They ARE just like us. Only faster. OK, a LOT faster. But there are common threads that run through them, and hopefully us:
- They have good races and not-so-good races but they learn something from every one.
- They are self-reflective and honest.
- They have mechanical issues and travel headaches just like we do.
- They put in long, tedious, not-exciting indoor sessions too.
- They get hurt, sick, and wipe out on their bikes.
- They dial back training at certain times per year.
- Most work closely with a coach.
- They have short-term and long-term goals.
- They are consistent and focused in their training.
- They celebrate successes but don't rest on their laurels.
- They don't publicly complain, make excuses, sandbag, etc.
- They have healthy relationships with fellow triathletes and competitors.
- They are overtly appreciative of those who support them - family, sponsors, and fans.
- They bring a sense of humor and playfulness.
- They note the natural beauty in which they race and train.
- They are flexible and make adjustments as needed.
- They appreciate a well-fitting wetsuit, great pair of running shoes, and a beautiful bike :-)
- They have belief in themselves and keep pressing forward through the tough times.
- They congratulate others for strong performances.
- They don't put life on hold for sport (they remodel kitchens, travel, adopt kitties...)
These athletes and coaches provide me with a great dose of perspective every day that I can't help but carry into my own training and racing.
Celebrate the highs.
Fight through the lows.
Put in the work.
Be grateful and appreciative.
Enjoy the journey.
Believe.
Lastly, who was I kidding saying I'd take 20 minutes every day this week to blog...it's hard to write much of anything in 20 minutes...sigh.
Learn more about these great athletes and coaches here:
