I had a year I wouldn’t have predicted. Before World Championships, I would say I had a disappointing season. I had subpar races, bad luck, and mediocre results. My competitors were racing smarter, and possibly harder. I went into World Champs knowing a good result wouldn’t make up for my Olympic (or other) performance, but I was determined to prove to myself that I am good enough for this sport. Auckland World Champs Race:
I dove in the water and tried to get to the front. I was having a mediocre swim, and came out of the water further back than I’d hoped. I mounted my bike and tried to look up the road to catch the front pack...it didn’t happen. Anne Haug bridged up solo to the front pack on the bike. I have no idea when this happened in the race, but I know that someday I hope to do the same (or just always be in the front pack when I start the bike).
Entering T2, I was over a minute down. I raced out of transition thinking I could maybe get top 10, if I could just focus on my run form. With two laps to go, I realized I might be able to catch the front pack. I was almost in disbelief. The entire crowd seemed to be willing me up to the front group.
On the last lap, I was with the front group (except for Anne who had already dropped the rest of the group). I tried to just keep running strong and was in shock when I was sprinting to a podium finish. My 10k time wasn’t outstanding, and the other girls may or may not have been running a technical race. It was a tough course and the hills on the bike course took a lot out of my legs. I am happy with my effort and that I was able to finish the race strong and never give up.
World Champs left me more motivated to stick with ITU triathlon. I could make more money in draft-legal racing; however, it’s not money I want. I want an Olympic Gold Medal.
I’m taking a month or so off of training. I’m relaxing, cooking, visiting friends and family, and doing some “spring” (fall?) cleaning. I am also going to travel a bit – I am going to San Francisco for a vacation with Patrick. We are big foodies and are looking for recommendations of what to do/where to eat. Have any suggestions?
