Inspired

One of the perks of living in San Diego and participating in the sport of triathlon is being part of the largest triathlon club in the country. Well, I think it's the largest...don't quote me on that.  So, even though I'm taking time off from racing, I'm still interested in what's going on in the sport and volunteering and being part of the lifestyle.  When the June club meeting was scheduled and was going to feature Chrissie Wellington, I jumped at the opportunity to hear her speak and purchase her book, "A Life Without Limits".

The interview was great.  Bob Babbitt (Competitor, CAF) usually mc's the interviews at the club meetings and he's a great interview-er. Chrissie is very articulate, smart, funny and an all-around pleasure to listen to. She told a few stories of her pre-triathlon life and they were quite amazing. So when I started reading her book I had a little bit of a clue it would be awesome.....but when I finished, I was left feeling that I had just read the most amazing and inspirational book I had ever read.  Seriously.

First off, the whole first part of the book talks about her studies, work abroad, crazy adventures (mountain biking to the base camp of Mt. Everest - what??!) and a topic that hits home for me....eating disorders and body image issues.  While I don't consider myself ever having a true "eating disorder" (i.e. I've never made myself throw up or went anorexia), my relationship with food has definitely been a bumpy one. And my relationship with myself as far as body image goes, well that has also been a bumpy one. I felt that it was extremely brave of Chrissie to share that part of her story in the book.  Eventually the book switched gears to her triathlon career. I read the stories about her early races, working with a coach for the first time and being the newcomer to the sport. All of which I felt like I could relate to. (Well, except for the part of winning nearly almost every race I entered - heh heh!). The stories of pains and struggles and mental fortitude to keep going were familiar to me.  I can't help but find it ironic that Ms. Wellington decided to take this year off racing and so have I. By no means am I comparing myself to her! But I feel that I put so much pressure on myself and I have ignored parts of life I don't want to ignore anymore and that's my reason for taking a step back. I *think* that's part of Chrissie's reason as well.

If you get a chance, I highly recommend reading her book.  It is quite amazing.  And very inspiring. And I now know that when I'm ready I'll race ironman again. Probably a destination race! Anyone up for Switzerland or New Zealand??

Cheers!