Becoming a Tricat
Posted October 18th, 2007 by matt ward
As of two months ago triathlon was totally foreign to me. If you asked me then what I thought about running--hated it; swimming--can't (honestly, I couldn't complete a 25 yd freestyle swim); biking--was fun when I was 10.
So why on earth did I join the University of Arizona triathlon team--the tricats? It probably had to do with a combination of boredom with my current workout routine (power lifting) and living with a guy who was on the team. Now I've spent the better part of the last two months adjusting to the significant increase in exercise duration and intensity. But its been good. Since I am getting better at running and have teammates to run with, its not bad at all--its actually fun. I've progressed by leaps and bounds in swimming--going from unable to complete a 25 yd swim to doing workouts of over 2000 yds. And, of course, because I live in Tucson the biking is phenomenal, especially heading out north on Oracle or West to Gates Pass early in the morning.
While I'm excited by the increase in fitness level and all the new skills I'm learning, it certainly doesn't overshadow the fact that I'm also meeting some really cool people. Though its taken a bit of time, I feel like I'm making some good friends and that I'm definitely a part of a well run club. The training is serious and there are some phenomenal athletes on this team, but despite that everyone (no matter their skill/fitness level) is made to feel welcomed, is embraced as a Tricat. Maybe that's what I like most about this sport: because it is difficult, we are--by necessity--pushed to lean on one another and extend to others our support, nods of approval, and general encouragement. Because triathetes embrace challenge we have to rely on a tight-knit community of others as crazy as we are to make it to the finish line.
With this said, I'll see you at the finish line Oct. 28th at my first race--Tinfoilman, AZ.
-Matt
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addiction
That's the crazy thing about triathlon. They are *so* addicting. People think we're crazy for the way we train, but the thing is, once you start you can't stop!
I did my first one just randomly while living in Chicago but ever since I knew I wanted to do more, though I never did until joining Tricats last spring. And I love it!! That and it is awesome to have a team of awesome, fun, motivated athletes to train with.
So?? Now that you've done your first, are you hooked??
Thanks everyone...
...your comments are appreciated.
Wow Matt! That is such a
Wow Matt! That is such a fantastic post... I am always blown away by the new people every year in different ways every time... I am so addicted to TriCats.
Awesome Matt... totally
Awesome Matt... totally awesome... see you at Tinfoilman!
phal
I see a lot of myself in
I see a lot of myself in your descriptions of becomming a triathlete... especially as a swimmer. Matt, you're going to love slash do amazing at Tinfoilman. And you're going to be more hooked than you already are. You're definitely an important member to the team and I know we're all glad to have you.
lifetime memory
Good luck with your first race. My first was a small local race almost 20 years ago and it was one of my most memorable. You sound like you too will get hooked. Have fun!
Well put Matt. The Tricats
Well put Matt. The Tricats sound like a good environment to learn the sport and have a good time as well. See you at the Tinfoilman.