How You Effect Others

[bps]

Hello --

I just wanted to take a moment and say thank you to everyone that hangs out in this forum. I started as a roadie a year ago, with an interest towards triathlons. I've read through countless threads on the Tri Forum and it has helped to answer many questions and provided large doses of inspiration along the way.

I thought it might be worth mentioning that you never know what effect your race report and stories might have on others. A few weeks ago, my wife and I read a story on this forum that was inspirational, fun to read, and really drew us into the experience. Afterwards, my wife and I looked at each other and said, "What are we waiting for?" We had been talking about doing a triathlon for close to 6 months, but it was this post that finally spurred us into action. We started looking at tri calendars to find a race that fit the bill we were looking for. After a few hours of sifting through the options, we found the race that was right for us -- the Texas Man Triathlon in September (500yd / 18.5 mile / 3.1 mile). And we couldn't be more excited!

Thanks again for all of the wonderful posts -- this is a great forum and we look forward to hanging out and contributing when we can.

And CJ, thank you for the inspiration. It was you that sparked us into action...

Click here for CJ's post

Bryan

[cjbruin]

Well...let me first say that I am VERY bashful about taking compliments but, it is heart-warming to know that you can positively impact others' lives.

I will say this. Triathlons are really fun and they give you an incredible sense of accomplishment. Another great benefit is getting to know the cool people in here...H20Chick, chrisesposito, psychofish, and racergirl...just to name a select few...of course there are several more that are awesome.

Anyway, good luck with your races and don't forget to post race reports. I think we all dig reading them.

Cheers.
-CJ

[Sprocket Man]

I have to agree - I really like to read CJ's race reports - he's quite inspiring. Actually, I like to read anyone's race report. It's just cool to read about how we train, overcome adversity and the sweet feeling of crossing the finish line. And to do it in a place where we understand each other and can relate.

Your post inspired me to post my race report: http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=205277

I hope you enjoy it!

[rplong]

You jumped into triathlon much like I did. Thought about it for awhile, and finally signed up for one. Keep us posted on your training and the race when you and your wife finish it.

I looked up Derby, Kansas, since you seem to be one of the few to be located here in the midwest. I have a few races that I have heard of, if you want to look them up for future plans. They are usually held around the same time every year, so if you start to look ahead, here are some big ones that you might keep in mind.

Midwest meltdown, in Kansas City is a great, big race. Never done it, but heard good feedback from people who have.

http://www.midwestmultisportraces.com/multiSport/

I did the Pigman Sprint about 4 weeks ago in Cedar Rapids IA, and will be doing the HIM there in August. I thought it was very well ran, pretty big crowd, and was a great time.

http://www.pigmantri.com/

Here is one that will be next year in Des Moines. They are also holding an ITU event on the same day, I think. Very big news since only a few have been held in the US.

http://hy-veetriathlon.com/article.php?story=raceinfo

Good Luck with your race, and have fun!

[bps]

Congrats Sprocket Man! And thank you rplong for the links -- we'll keep those races in mind.

We started training this week and are having a blast. A couple of things I've noted so far:

1) Swimming is way harder than I thought it would be -- the first time I tried it, I went backwards! My wife has some background in swimming and has the basics down. I have no background, but will work hard to figure it out! I've been reading all of the tips being given to RNS in the "total newb, where to find help?" thread. RNS, if you read this, I know where you are coming from -- swimming technique sure is hard when first starting out!

2) I love the way training is so varied! Last year, I did a half-marathon and a 170-mile 10-person running relay. While that was fun, training was run, run, and more running. Tri training is fun because you get to focus on 3 sports. I know it's an obvious statement...but it really struck me during this first week and I like it!

3) And last but not least, I've realized there are 3 additional events. Sleep, nutrition, and time management. I need to work on those three so I can be successful at swimming, biking, and running.

:rolleyes:

It's going to be a great summer!

Bryan