Then and Now: Red Hills Triathlon

Red Hills 2006 was my 4th triathlon and second season racing. Yes, that is me on the far left without a wetsuit in a red speedo. (Some may remember, 2006 was the COLD year!!)

Total: 1:50:38    
Swim: 11:41  
T1: 3:42  
Bike: 1:03:44  
T2: 2:02    
Run: 29:31


12th in 20-24 AG and 203 Overall

I remember this race like it was yesterday. The air temperature was so cold that the balmy mid-60 water felt warm. Storming into the lake for the start was met with an abrupt freak out. For the first time, I had a full on panic attack. I couldn't breath, I seemed to forget how to swim. I remember trying to wave down a lifeguard but somehow managed to pull myself together to finish the swim. I was so under prepared for the day. The air temperature was in the low 40's and I didn't have anything on but a long sleeve tee, running shorts and a speedo. No socks, gloves or wind breaker to keep me warm on the bike. I remember riding one handed switching back and forth with one hand on the handle bars and one hand in my armpit to bring back some feeling. But somehow like the swim, I managed to finish. Running has always been my weakness, I had never ran faster than a 32 min 5K before this race. I remember clearly being on the bike and saying to myself, "get me off this bike, all I want to do is run". I was so cold and knew once I started running I would warm up. Well, I ran my butt off and broke 30 minutes for the first time ever! That finish is one of my proudest finishes (second to Ironman Texas 2013).

Red Hills 2015 was the start of my 11th year racing and my 63rd triathlon (I think).  This was my 8th time participating in RH. I dropped 31 minutes and 38 seconds from my time in 2006. However, this was not a PR. In 2011, I managed to squeak out a 1:18:30.     

Total: 1:19:00    

Swim: 8:59    

T1: 1:02    

Bike: 44:47    

T2: 0:40   

Run: 23:34

2nd Overall Female and 35th Overall

Consistency and passion are two of the reasons for my improvement. Triathlon is my life, I live, breath, and dream triathlon and I wouldn't have it any other way. I love this sport so much. Over the past 10 years I have made lifelong friends, learned from some of the most inspiring people I know, and I am so happy to now be coaching and helping others achieve goals of their own. 

I learn something new with every experience in racing, training and life. Sharing and helping others is what fuels me. Looking back to 2006, I never would have imagined I'd be where I am today. I am so thankful to have this opportunity and also have the ability to compete in triathlon. Here is to another 10 year!

I love this team!!