Leg #1: The Swim

I decided to pursue the sprint tri a few months back.  I knew when the decision was made it would be an extreme challenge for me.  I ran a 5k with my son (he runs x-country) and finished at around 27:30 (if memory serves).  Not too impressive by any stretch but running is not one of my favorite things to do.  I'm of the opinion running is useful only when one is being chased by someone! Running is not my favorite thing but unfortunately, even at 27:30, is probably my strongest of the three legs.  UGH!!

The first leg is the swim.  I spent 5 years in the US Navy and was required to be able to "tread water" but not really swim.  Seriously, if your boat gets blown to smithereens are you going to judge your mates technique in the crawl or breast stroke? I think not. So I can tread water, doggy paddle, and do a pseudo-hybrid free style.  Knowing that my swimming needed improvement I enrolled in a beginner swim class at the local Y.

Over the past 6 weeks I worked on breathing technique, freestyle, back stroke, and breast stroke.  Yea, I didn't really get the hang of the breast stroke.  I learned proper head placement and breathing techniques for freestyle but just need to practice, practice, practice.  I can do a few laps without getting too winded but much of it is getting totally comfortable in the water - which will only come by practice, practice, practice.

I'm not really good enough to feel comfortable swimming during the scheduled "lap time" but go during the open swim time.  I am building up my base so when the 12-16 week training regimen begins I can get into the lap rotation - hopefully.

I believe I am starting with sufficient time to prepare for the race.  If any of you have completed tri's before or are tri experts any tips and tricks are invited!

I still need to get a bike, though.  UGH!

Triple Threat Bucket List

I'm getting to that age (knocking on 45) when the "bucket list" becomes a reality.  I do my best to eat right and exercise although it is increasingly difficult the older I get.  So, in an effort to kill two birds with one stone (sorry animal lovers!) I tie goal and bucket lists things to my long-term health.  In 2013 I am going to complete (without dying) a sprint triathlon.

A sprint tri, at least in my situation is a 500 meter swim, 13 mile bike ride, and a 5k run.  The race is scheduled for July 20, 2013 and is relatively close to where I live.  Another reason I chose this race besides close proximity is that a wet suit is not required.  Water temperature in this small lake is 84 ish.  I really didn't want to buy a wet suit for one race.  What if I don't like it? Yes, I can be cheap.

From what I understand a 12-16 week training period is necessary to prepare oneself for a race such as this.  I have every intention of eating a plant based diet even through the rigors of the training and race.  Most information available is not plant-based/vegan friendly but I will prevail! I need to find a reputable training program and get myself ready to take it on!

I'm going to chronicle my journey on this site partly to help other bucket listers and help keep myself accountable.  Consider yourself my accountability partner!

Thank you, thank you very much.