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: Sue
1. How did you get your start in triathlon?
I got my start when I was working in Sabah Malaysia. I happen to come out to the road during the running of the Borneo triathlon in Sabah and thought it looked like a lot of fun. Shortly after that I met some of the Sabah state triathlon team who wanted to get more people involved in triathlon so started a training program for the following years Borneo triathlon.
2. What do you enjoy most about the sport?
I think the people. Even when I just was starting out people would always help in the transition area and give tips and encouragement. I also enjoy seeing and hearing the transition that goes on in people’s life as they train for triathlon and the confidence that they gain from it.
3. What is your favorite triathlon distance and why?
I like sprint because I can do them for fun without killing myself. But I enjoy the challenge and the discipline that is required to train for an Ironman. This distance challenges me to keep improving and working on strength and endurance. Because it involves cross training across three sports it allows me to train harder without injury.
4. What are your goals for this season, what are your upcoming races?
Louisville Ironman is in just a few weeks. Then I will take a break from triathlon (since it is winter in Kentucky) and will work on cross fit and running. I try and do one 5k race each month during the winter. I will also participate in the cross fit games at my local box in the spring, and two half marathons in April before transitioning back to triathlon training
5. Do you have a bucket list race?
I had to leave Sabah a week before I was to run the Borneo tri. So I would like to someday return to Malaysia and do the ironman or 70.3 there.
6. Describe the feeling of finishing your first triathlon?
Accomplishment! And ready for the next one
7. What is the biggest obstacle you’ve had to over come to participate in the sport?
I think like everyone, there are seasons of life that your priority has to be on taking care of your spouse and family. But triathlon is always there waiting for me to come back… it gives me something to look forward to when life gets crazy.
8. What is your favorite memory/experience the sport has brought you during either training or racing?
That’s a hard one. Often we think our best memories are in our victories. But I think maybe when the tri community really shows its heart is when we don’t achieve our dreams. I so appreciated the graciousness of the tri community last year when I blew out my knees at the Louisville Ironman. When I gave my tri report on Women for Tri, I was embraced by this community and so many appreciated my reflections on making it 127.5 miles on wounded knees. It was the love and encouragement of our community, especially our team that allows me to be fearless in my attempt this year.
