Race Result

Racer:	David Carson
Race:	Sandman Triathlon
Date:	Sunday, September 16, 2007
Location:	Virginia Beach, VA
Race Type:	Triathlon - International Distance
Age Group:	Male 30 - 34
Time:	1:48:45
Overall Place:	319
Age Group Place:	27 / 35

Race Report:

This was my first race. Didn't know what to expect -- if I'd like it or hate. It was lots of fun and made me want more. Here's my post from my MySpace Training Blog. Looking back, which wasn't that long ago, I remember the excitement and anticipation of not knowing. It's always fun to be a newbie (which I still am!).

-- Blog Excerpt (September 16, 2007) --
The Triathlon is over! I have to say it was very tough. The ocean swim was especially difficult just getting through the waves. I'm very happy to have finished, but a bit sad at the same time that it is over.

I placed 318 (changed to 319). Al came in 270. He beat me by about 4:30, which is great because I thought he would kill me by 10 minutes as in the test run we had done in the gym. We're both extremely happy about our placement and all. Chris didn't complete the swim. I have to say again that it [the ocean swim] was much more difficult than we thought possible. No shame in not completing it. He gave it a shot. Most people go through life living in their comfort zone, not taking chances, afraid of challenging themselves and failing. The only failure is in not trying.

I learned a lot during this process, both from a training perspective as well as from life itself. It has in many ways made me a better person and I am thankful for that.

During the event, people I did not know offered me words of encouragement, those from volunteers as well as fellow competitors. It was inspiring and I found myself offering similar words to others I encountered. At one point during the run, right before the halfway mark, a girl offered me two words of advice: "Just relax." I found myself doing just that, and the run became easier, smoother, and more enjoyable.

There was definitely a comradery among the athletes. We were all in pursuit of the same goal: the finish line, but as with most things in life, there's more to it than that. It's about challenging yourself, setting a goal, and enjoying everything along with way. As I have often said, most people are content to live life in their own box. Not saying anything is wrong with that. If they're happy, then I am happy for them. It's just not for me. I enjoy the challenge, the struggle, and (hopefully) the accomplishment.

In the end, for me at least, it was about doing something I've never done, improving my fitness, and enjoying it. It was hands down the single hardest physical thing (at that time) I have ever had to do and I loved every minute of it. I dare say that I'm hooked. With my race numbers 704 still on my arms and legs (though fading with each shower), I look forward to future events, challenges, and whatever else life has to offer.