Take me to the top - well thats what I thought. That was my motto over the past 10 months since qualifying to compete in the Ironman 70.3 World Championship My coach Jamie Edwards - Triathlon Coach knew from the beginning, this was going to be a journey, coming back to this motto many times for motivation. Ive just had the race of my life, not because of the time on the clock when I crossed the line but because of the memory. My new motto from the worlds is now I remember or as the locals would say Je me souviens Let me explain. I remember because I was forced to stop running due to injury in early April and I remember coming back from injury on a thoroughly thought out training program focusing on my strengths, and my ability to work hard, augmented by support of Press Play Performance Lab guru Jessica Greaux With only a handful of runs under my belt leading in, I wasnt sure how I was going to run - literally! I remember the uncertainty this presented, and I remember because I ran the 7th fastest time in my AG on the day to spite not running for 4 months. I remember because there were over 2200 other athletes from all over the world all present to achieve their dream, to compete in the worlds and do their very best! I remember because over 3000 volunteers helped us achieve our goal, and the human spirit digging deep and oozing passion. I remember because of the unconditional love from my husband Scott Chaplin and Mum Lyn Harris present with me for the entire week. I remember messages from family and friends in OZ, and the US. I remember because of the relentless support from Elite Triathlon Performance Australia , Elite Triathlon Performance America and Oakland Triathlon Club athletes being sent my way all week long. I remember bumping into old triathlon buddies reminding me of this amazing sporting community we are all a part of and being blessed to have the opportunity to race in such an overwhelmingly beautiful place half a world away from my home country I remember because I was diagnosed with gall stones the Wednesday before the race, and deciding to race and manage the at times unbearable pain anyway. I remember finding a mental space during the race I had never been before, knowing I had discovered something new about myself. I remember putting my hands in the air in desperation at times to bring good energy in, smiling to make it feel better and sending loved ones yahoos to prove I was OK and crossing the finish line not having any idea where I was in the field, but knowing I was at the top of my own. (I finished 7th place in my AG, but 1st place in mental metal and determination making me a stronger athlete and even better coach.) So while take me to the top got me to the race start, it is I remember that will last for ever. I remember sending out an e-mail before my race that read Poetry, music, forests, oceans, solitude – they were what developed enormous spiritual strength. I came to realize that spirit, as much or more than physical conditioning, had to be stored up for a race. Herb Elliot, Olympic champ and world record holder in the mile who trained in bare feet, wrote poetry, and retired undefeated. I will remember how true these word are.
Posted on: Sat, 13 Sep 2014 00:03:39 +0000
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