2013 Season Highlights:
– Having the expertise, knowledge and patience of an experienced Level 3 Triathlon Coach, Clive Alderson, to guide me through the season. Up until 2013 I had always “self-coached” myself. I have learnt so much from Clive and my training has become much more structured and focused with a lot more time being spent on the bike. His knowledge has also helped develop my Coaching and Personal Trainer skills no end – sharing knowledge is fundamental in this industry.
– Winning a Bronze medal at British Duathlon Age Group Championships (10km Run/40km Bike/5km Run) in March.
– Qualifying for the World Duathlon Championships in Ottawa
– Winning a Silver medal at the World Duathlon Age Group Championships – read more about it here.
– Cycling Lands End to John O’Groats – 865 miles in 8 days
– Swimming a 400m Freestyle Personal Best of 5mins45secs
– Qualifying for the World Triathlon Age Group Championships
– Finishing 30th out of 77 at the World Triathlon Age Group Championships – read more about this here
2013 Season Low Points:
– Achilles tendon inflammation as a result of cycling Lands End to John O’Groats which put a halt to my training for 6 weeks…
– My mother-in-law being terminally ill and sadly passing away which put life and training into perspective for a good few weeks
– Missing out on being in the top 10 GB Athletes at the World Triathlon Age Group Championships by 60 seconds
So on reflection – I’m pleased to say my season has had more sporting highlights and achievements than low points, but with sport you really can never predict if that is going to be the case. There are so many contributing factors to success in sport and sometimes the balance doesn’t always go in your favour.
Health, career commitments, family commitments and support, nutrition, access to suitable training facilities and coaches and motivation are just some of the immediate factors that spring to mind. Now at the end of the season is now time for me to think these 3 questions through to help me plan for 2014:
- Where am I now?
- Where do I want to get to?
- How am I going to get there?
These questions really are thought provoking and you should help you PLAN and SET GOALS. When thinking about these questions, especially number 2 and 3 my top tips would be:
– Be realistic but also aspirational.
– Talk through your thoughts with your “Fan Club” – spouses, coaches, family and friends are you biggest support network so make sure they are on your side.
– Be prepared to be a little flexible at times if needed – times such as family illness/bereavements, it may not be appropriate for you to take yourself off for a 3hr bike ride during this time when you’re family needs you the most.
– Be mentally prepared for when things may not go as you planned – some days you will feel a million dollars and others not, take the rough with the smooth; but there is always a reason.
– Being organised is fundamental – forward planning your diary and setting aside your “Training Time” is VITAL, don’t let anyone take that time away from you as you will never get it back.
– Seek advice from others who have been there/done that – experience speaks louder than words!
I am a lover of quotes and this is one of my favourites – “If you always do what you have always done, you will always be what you have you always been.”