So Long First Place Finishes

I have decided to finish my first year of triathlon racing with a bust. I have two Olympic races left, Bandit's Challenge and Pinehurst. I wrote the race director a few nights ago and asked if I could be moved from novice to age group. I got a reply this morning that I would be switched over and I'll race my last races in 2006 will be in the real triathlon world.

North Carolina has so many talented, tough, competitive men and women triathletes. Maybe it's because we can train all year due to mild winters. I just know I'm in for an ass kicking racing triathlons in NC until I turn 50. Or until I can have a runner's legs' transplant which will make me faster.

I know some will say, it's not about winning. It was fun to win though. It's my nature and drive to want to win. It gave me a high for a few hours. I saw the pride my family had when they'd call my name for my award. All good things must come to an end. It's time to say so long novice Mojo.

I read this quote by Marian Wright Edelman,
"You're not obligated to win. You're obligated to keep trying to do the best you can every day."

Today, I was feeling tired after lifting weights and doing the elliptical at the gym with my Mom. When she left, I seriously considered leaving and not doing my 1700 yard swim. I knew I wouldn't be doing the best thing if I ditched the swim, I'd just be cheating myself. I went and put my swim suit on and jumped in the water.

I had to do 10 x 100 sprints/60 second rest. Around number eight, I thought again about quitting and starting the cool down. I know all those age group winners complete their workouts, you can't win by slacking on workouts. I sucked it up and did an extra 100 for good measure. If I ever want to place in age group, I'll have to trainer harder, become faster and mentally stronger.

I do have doubts though when I look at the top women's run times. I am highly skeptical I could ever keep a 7:30 5k pace, no matter how much I train. I look back at myself this time last year, I couldn't run one mile without stopping to walk. I couldn't swim 100 meters without gasping for breath at the wall. I didn't even own a bike. Maybe my short, slow twitch legs will surprise me. Maybe they'll be able to carry me through a 21 minute 5k this time next year. I love a challenge, so I keep trying until I succeed.