Sierra

My process to get a triathlon bike was a long journey through a sea of emotions. I hope this article gives another athlete the confidence to follow their passion and know they are not alone.

I made myself a promise I would first find out if I would continue racing Half Ironmans before getting a triathlon bike. My excuse was I didn’t want to spend a ton of money purchasing a second bike for just one race. Santa Cruz 70.3 came and went. At the finish line I thought “Wow that was easy…I guess I have to do a Full Ironman now.” I know that doesn’t make an sense but it’s a mixture of excitement, the joy of accomplishment, and adrenaline all mixed together that make you believe crazy statements like that are sane! I also knew that regardless I would continue doing more Half Ironman races. My initial excuse was gone but I still didn’t feel like I was allowed to get a triathlon bike. Only those in the special club of “real racers”are allowed to race on TT bikes and I definitely didn’t deserve a nice bike. I would also look ridiculous on one. Even though I’ve lost 60 pounds racing and have made huge improvements cycling, I still have a lot of self improvement to do.

Guess what. We’re all triathletes and your racing YOUR race! We each have a unique journey so stop comparing yourself to everyone else. Your allowed to upgrade your bike or get a fancy GPS watch as long as you are also improving yourself. An improved bike is not a substitute for working on your engine but you don’t have to wait until you “deserve it” because there is always room for improvement. It may very well be an incentive to kick your training up a notch; it has for me.

Oceanside 70.3 was the inaugural race on my triathlon bike, Sierra, a Cervelo P3. I felt like I belonged out there with everyone else, especially as I passed about 10 guys in the last 12 miles of the bike course. If your feeling self conscious, your not alone. Don’t let comparing yourself to others diminish your own accomplishments. Be confident in yourself and your abilities, whether it is triathlons or any other sport. You’re already doing what few others are just by getting off the couch. Create a life you love one day at a time.