Ramblin’ Rose Raleigh was on June 8, 2017. This is such a great venue for any woman starting out in the triathlon world, wanting to just try it out and see what happens. It’s also great to come back repeatedly to grow in your speed and ability. Can you really do this? Is it impossible? Is this the last, or is it the beginning of something bigger…the initial steps to a life long relationship with endurance sports (like it was with me).
Doing things that feel impossible are such amazing growth tools. It’s hard to get out of our comfort zone, holy moly that is hard. Ditching the bed for an early swim, or running/walking knowing it might rain, or keeping a commitment to yourself or someone else to meet for a ride is not easy. But those things do get easier. They do. And the more you do, the more you can do.
The Rose event was great!! I had coerced, I mean wrangled, a few friends into doing it. Most of us did it as a team, with each of us doing one or two legs. And one person who does not see herself as a triathlete yet did the whole thing! (You know I’m talking about you Lady J…) This year the swim was outside which meant that it was easier to watch everyone. The bike was really, really hilly. And then the walk/run – and it was done!
Here are the bigger accomplishments, progress, & outcomes from my friends this weekend, using just initials for privacy:
- TN is talking about ways to improve her swim and be less uncomfortable in the water
- KP learned how to swim about 2 months prior and finished the swim!
- CS is considering doing TWO more triathlons this summer – one with an open water swim!! And she’s getting a road bike this week!
- JH just signed up to do the October Ramblin’ Rose event!
- AK volunteered to learn more, and is committed to the October Rose along with several others who didn’t participate in this particular event
…but the biggest outcome is the belief in progress and the believe that they can move forward in a challenging sport. A sport that can be very tough on long courses, and one that can be very hard to get comfortable in. You have to learn how to be ok with being uncomfortable, sweaty, and tired – but in the best and most accomplished way!
CHANDRA GREEN 