We have an incredible team of athletes at Triathlon Training Team. Each member has a story and a path that brought them to the here and now, we are so excited to share their stories with you so you can get to know our team that much more. We will be featuring athletes every month so be sure to check back often. Maybe you’ll find someone that shares your same fears, loves the same distance as you, has similar obstacles making it difficult to commit to training. Whatever it is you are looking for, we are confidant you will find it at Triathlon Training Team and look forward to joining you are on your journey!
Today we are honored to feature Triathlon Training Team member: Alex
1.How did you get your start in triathlon?
I’ve always been fascinated by triathlon since I was young, but I always thought triathlon equaled Ironman. Little did I know how wrong I was! Just by doing a bit of research I soon found out that Tri-Zone offered beginner clinics for shorter races. I signed up for the class and have been addicted since!
2.What do you enjoy most about triathlon?
Although triathlon is considered an individual sport, I think the best part of it is training with a team and seeing the growth in yourself and your teammates. Some may be more athletically gifted, but at the end we all swim, bike and run the same distance.
3.What is your favorite triathlon distance and why?
70.3 without a doubt. I think it’s the perfect distance that will show you how much the training paid off. It’s challenging, but still doable.
4.What are your goals for this season, what are your upcoming races?
Just trying to stay in shape while having fun. Tempe 70.3 is my next race in just a few weeks!
5.Do you have a bucket list race?
Nothing specific, but I would like to race in Korea (where my parents are from), and Brazil (where I was born). Eventually a full Ironman race later on.
6.Describe the feeling of finishing your first triathlon?
I just thought to myself “Wow, that was pretty cool! When’s the next one?”
7.What is the biggest obstacle you’ve had to overcome to participate in the sport?
Trying to make training a daily routine while raising a child and running a business. Working out until midnight or going for a ride at 4am are common now, but the lack of sleep at times have been very difficult to overcome.
8.What is your favorite experience the sport has brought you during either training or racing?
Racing Oceanside 70.3 with all my teammates. It’s a great feeling having teammates cheering you on, even though they are racing too. The climb to Crystal Lake is another one I enjoyed.
9.When’s a good time to start?
Now! It’s intimidating trying to get into a new sport, but there are plenty of programs to help you get started. My only regret is not getting into it earlier. Also, joining a team will allow you to interact with other athletes. Some who have competed for years, and others that just started months ago. At the end we all have the same goal of challenging ourselves to new heights. So go out there, set new goals, and enjoy the ride… and the swim… and the run…
