" It was still a challenge to get across the finish line but once I had crossed the line, it was the most amazing feeling ever."
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In my life I have never been athletic. I used to run a little, but I am not a strong swimmer and haven’t been on a bike for years.
I found that as my children got bigger I started to get more free time and I became determined to improve my fitness and give myself a challenge.
I’d watched the Columbia Threadneedle World Triathlon Leeds last year, and I also knew a few people who had completed a GO TRI. This is when I decided to sign up without really thinking. I then became anxious due to not knowing what to expect.
A friend recommended me to look at the GO TRI website, as they were running sessions for people who were new to triathlon. I found one which was a 10-week course at Leeds University called ‘Train for GO TRI for complete beginners.
I needed a bit of motivation to do some training in the winter months, so I signed up for it on the spot. I was nervous about what to expect from my first session and I became worried that I wouldn’t be fit or fast enough.
I found that nearly everyone on the course felt the same and had as little experience as I had. The coaches were fantastic and really made everyone feel at ease. They were all about being there and giving it a go.
About a month before the event, there was a training day in which we got to practice the run and cycle route, transition and an open water swim.
Getting into the lake for the first time was a pretty terrifying experience. Being surrounded by triathlon newbies and a brilliant coach, I soon became comfortable in the water.
On the day, I felt I was prepared as I could possibly be. Once I was in the water and the nerves had settled, I loved it! The atmosphere was fabulous. It was still a challenge to get across the finish line but once I had crossed the line, it was the most amazing feeling ever.
I’m a mum, 48 years old and now officially a triathlete. It has given me so much confidence. I look back at the woman who is about to jump in Roundhay Lake and think that I can do anything. It’s important that my girls see that as well.
Find a GO TRI event or activity near you on our What's On page.
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