If you read our last blog, we tracked the progress of PTSportsPRO trainer, Nicolas Reuben, as he worked through a ZERO TO SPORTSPRO program in preparation for the Michigan Titanium 140.6-mile ultra-distance triathlon. Here’s what race day looked like.
In answer to the question “It’s race morning. How are you feeling today?”, the answer was “Calm…“.
It’s interesting that in all the chaos of training and getting to race morning, his first response was “Calm!”. That in itself is a testimony to the work he put in and the confidence he had in his training and all those who supported him through this journey. It begs the question, “What defines you on race morning?”. And from all the rhetorical goals that he set, “crossing that finish line” is all that stands. Or as Nick put it, PR or ER😅.
The start was epic!
A 7 a.m. wetsuit-optional 2.4-mile swim in 82.5°F water made for a warm start to the day! He exited the water with a smile and seemed pleased with his effort.
The day grew hotter on the 112-mile bike ride as the aid stations did their best to keep the refueling liquids cool, while a headwind on the way back continued to beat many participants to a pulp!
Nick finished his bike ride in just under seven hours and was beyond exhausted, possibly a little dehydrated. He was done!
“Why would anyone want to run a marathon after that?” He put his head on my shoulder & sobbed.
After a couple of bottles of cold water, a banana, and a bag of chips, he mustered the energy to start the run. Another seven hours later, with a finish time of 16 hours, 16 minutes, he moved from SPORTSPRO TO HERO as he finished his first 140.6-mile ultra-distance triathlon!
Lessons learned:
- A plan is only as good as your dedication to follow it.
- Training is a small part of the equation. A focus on nutrition, hydration & rest/recovery is equally important.
- No matter how well your training goes, race day is a whole new beast. Pay attention to your surroundings and adjust expectations accordingly.
- If you’re at a low point in your race, it’s okay to have a sob, reset your game plan and take that next step.
- Surround yourself with a good team like your family and your friends, and a team of experts like we have at PTSportsPRO who can manage your health and your injuries, and everything in between.
- Inspire people along the way😇.
This is why “when it comes to TREATING YOU LIKE A PRO, we know exactly how!”
PTSportsPRO is blessed to partner with Tris4Health in this monthly newsletter production.