What Triathlon Means

Posted by Coach Mark

As the season comes to a close for many triathletes (both TeamMPI Athletes and friends), it’s a great time for me to reflect on an amazing year for all of them. Many conquered fears they thought not possible.  Many pushed themselves harder than they ever have - physically AND mentally.  Others learned to deal with not only failure, but with success.  And still others expanded their circle of “friends” by welcoming new people into their lives who had nothing to do with what religion they practiced, what job they had or how much money they make.  And all learned more about themselves. 

When we were young, really young, we often viewed challenges without ego.  That is, we saw a challenge, evaluated whether we wanted to proceed, and if we wanted to, we did!  That’s it.  Climb that tree? Jump off that rock? Swim across the pond? Run fast and long? Bike down that hill?  We weren’t thinking, what will people think if I panic? What if people find out I can’t swim? What if I fail? Why at my age would I take that risk?  These are questions we ask ourselves as adults.  Often times this prevents us from risk-taking, from challenging and from growing. Really, it prevents us from living. 

Triathlon is a vehicle that brings us back to life!  And at MPI, we are thankful we’ve been a part of so many adults “living”.  We’re also thankful for the wonderful sport and lifestyle we call Triathlon. 

As one of our TeamMPI Athletes said, “Best advice for others -- Have a blast! Enjoy every minute of swimming, biking and running. Cheer others on! Take risks -- there is nothing like standing on the beach, teeth chattering and knees knocking as you watch the waves roll in, and then coming out of the water on the other side with a smile big as the sun .... knowing you have chased down a fear and WON! Encourage, Inspire and Laugh.”