Tri-ing It With Others

Let's be honest, triathlons are really an individual sport. One of the main reasons I enjoyed competing in triathlons was because everything depended on me. No teammates to rely on. My results were my doing. I had no one to blame but myself on how I did. If I didn't train, I wouldn't do well. Simple.

For many of my first few years of racing and training, I did it mostly alone. As I improved and I increased my distance, I found myself training more and more alone. Not everyone wanted to do an 80 mile ride or a 15 mile run for fun. Time was always an issue as well and trying to get in workouts with others just didn't fit into my schedule.

Of course there were some trainings and a variety of rides that I would encourage others to join me. Many times it was more work to get others to join me than it was worth. And when I began preparing for Ironman USA, the times I rode with others decreased even more.

However, last year I decided to make a change. I was going to try and workout with others. Through the GSTC and the Fitness Edge I was able to find others who wanted to swim, bike and run more often with me. I wasn't worried about their ability level just that they wanted to join me on any workout I was doing. Riding with Peter, Kim, Dave, Tom, Jay and others was really enjoyable and it helped me through some tough times.

This past fall, I decided to start a running group in Meredith. So far, it has worked out really well. We are all a bit different in our abilities but we all have the same desire to challenge ourselves on a regular basis. I have NEVER been one to run in the cold (meaning below 40 degrees) but knowing others will be there has been a wonderful motivation. Our group has grown and friendships have flourished.

As I prepare for the 2010 season, I am looking forward to more swims, rides and runs with others. My friends have motivated me to become better. We have great conversations on the bike and on our runs.

I think that triathlons for most people begins as an individual sport. However, I think that has all changed. The GSTC was one of the first clubs in the state and now they are popping up all over the place. Yes, the race is individual, but getting there is a group effort.

Oh yeah, if you want to read more go to my personal blog: www.djfor3.blogspot.com

Written by David Levesque