Training Camp (prologue)

I will admit that I am very uneasy right now. Maybe it is the 10 hours of flying or the fact that I haven’t seen land in several hours. More than likely it is what awaits me on the big island. I am both grateful and wildly lucky that this opportunity fell to me. I am sitting on the plane traveling to the Mecca of the triathlon world. I get to run on the road where Dave Scott and Mark Allen had their famous duel. I will ride on the Queen K when Norman destroyed the world record (and threw down his bike). I am going to Top Gun to train.

One of the greatest attributes of this sport is the normalcy brought forth by the professional athletes. They are held in high regard among our community but virtually unknowns to the rest of the world. Instead, they are often normal people. And the best part is that when you compete…you get to compete against them. That is an opportunity afforded by only a few sports. You can’t expect to roll up to the neighborhood court and expect to play against the likes of Iverson or LeBron. You don’t play winter baseball and have Alex Rodriquez stop in to sharpen his skills.

In the triathlon world, you do. It isn’t uncommon to run into the pros at the events. Or even to see them training or joining a local group ride. Furthermore, in cases like this, triathletes are able to go and train on Centre Court or at the Superbowl. It is a really cool feeling.
But it comes with a bit of pressure. This week is going to be challenging. I am not where I want to be training wise. Nagging injury and bitter coldness won. Mentally, I am really far from where I want to be. Both of these issues will be front and center over the next few days. It will be a test of my mental and physical fortitude. Will I be able to push myself in the workouts. Will I bitch the entire time and not enjoy it.

All this is running through my head as we fly westward toward the big island. Most importantly, I want to have a good time. I want to train, train hard and enjoy myself while taking in the culture and ambiance of Kona. My focus will remain on keeping the big picture in perspective and how the training camp fits into everything. This should enable me to push through the difficult times while enjoying everything that surrounds me.