Beginner to Olympic at Rockingham! - Cat Gallagher
It’s only been 1.5 years since I started triathlons and completing the beginners course with FTC. At that time, I was set on sprint distances, but soon enough (with a little peer pressure ) reaching the goal of a long distance triathlon was on the cards. Plus, I have watched some amazing friends absolutely smash their first half and full ironman. The Olympic distance was the perfect race to complete several months out from Busso100 to test the legs and the mind!
The swim – I really enjoyed. Perfect weather, flat water and the easily visible bouys made for a really nice swim. Also, it was the first time for me swimming in a wetsuit which I appreciated that extra buoyancy and protection from any stingers.
The bike – Not my strongest discipline. And the course I found repetitive (6 laps) with lots of turns and corners. Shout out to Leslie Hill for cheering me on whilst on course too, and for giving me tips to keep low through the wind. I survived and took away a lot of learners.
The run – I was disappointed with my run. And it was so hot. I was so wrecked from the bike my legs wouldn’t do what I wanted. The coke and hose downs from the volunteers helped me trot through those 10k’s. Despite the fatigued legs and mind games it was a beautiful run along the foreshore. A special thanks to the FTC crew who supported me and cheered me on especially during that run, and for Cat Newsh for doing her Sunday run alongside me in sandals to support me .
Main learnings:
- Wetsuits and coke do help
- Nutrition is key, and no matter how tired you are on the bike keep fueling
- The mental game is just as important as the physical – it’s about getting comfortable with the uncomfortable. A little message I have come across in my preparation which I always think of:
“The discomfort is temporary, but the pride of overcoming it lasts forever. When that moment comes, when your mind tries to negotiate a way out, choose to push forward. Because on the other side of the struggle is a version of you that is stronger than you ever imagined”.