My new year’s resolution for 2012 was to push and challenge myself both physically and mentally. When I heard about the Abu Dhabi International Triathlon (www.abudhabitriathlon.com) it was an opportunity I just couldn’t miss. In less than five weeks’ time, this challenge becomes reality.
I have opted for the sprint distance which is made up of a 750m open water swim, followed by a 50km bike on the Yas Marina Formula 1 circuit, finishing off with a 5km run through the city of Abu Dhabi.
It is not the distance of the tri that I find daunting (although it is pretty horrendous!) it is the hype around the race itself. Last year the race attracted athletes from over 51 countries holding 50 Ironman titles and 24 World Champions. The standard is extremely high, not just with the elites but across all competitors. I am sporty, exercise regularly and teach various fitness classes; however I do not have a competitive nature nor train for a specific sport. I have only completed one triathlon, and at a fraction of the distance, so to say this race is a challenge is an understatement!
Since the beginning of January I have found it a struggle to find time to train due to an obscene amount of work commitments. I know – excuses, excuses, excuses! My work load is not going to get any better so something had to give. It all changed this morning when I crawled out of bed at 5.30am and somehow found my way to the gym by 6am. After a cardio and swim session, I am now feeling positive and motivated for the week ahead. Just the kick start I needed.
This week I will be concentrating on my swim, my weakest discipline by far. I plan to visualise myself swimming in the beautiful, warm and calm Arabian Gulf… rather than my local swimming pool in not so sunny Maidenhead. Fingers crossed this is the motivation I need to reach my target distance comfortably and confidently on race day.
It might seem that I have bitten off more than I can chew, but I couldn’t be more excited. Sport to me isn’t about being first or shaving seconds off my PB but pushing myself and setting individual targets. Most importantly I want to have fun and ENJOY this journey. I know with determination and a positive attitude this can become one of my most rewarding accomplishments.
Hope you enjoy reading my blog in the next coming weeks leading up to race day!
