Only A Spectator

This past weekend, I went with my brothers, Tom and Eric, to Burley, ID. The purpose of our trip was the Spudman Triathlon. Tom was participating this year, and I was but a spectator. I participated in said Triathlon last year. It is an Olympic Triathlon, which means it begins with a .9 mile (1.5k) swim, about 24 mile (40k) bike ride and a 6.2 mile (10k) run. My times were as follows: 25:47 for the swim, 1:34:18 for the bike, and 1:15:12 for the run. My overall time being 3:24:51 (that includes transition times etc.). I enjoyed the race quite a bit. And I intended to participate this year. However, last year a man drown during the swim. This really hit home to me, because I struggled quite a bit during it, I kept telling myself, "just swim to live" and that is what I did. So this year, every time I thought about signing up for the triathlon this fear took over my heart and I felt I shouldn't participate.

So when Tom told me that Tami wasn't going to be able to go to Idaho for the triathlon, I wanted to come along so Tom had a cheering section, a small one, but a cheering section nonetheless. So Eric and I came along for the trip.

When we arrived and once the smallest bit of triathlon hype reached me, I knew that I had made a mistake. I wished I had signed up to participate. I missed the thrill of picking up your number, making you an official race participant. I missed the anxiety that comes with getting all of your race items ready, setting your bike etc. at the transition areas...pinning your number to your shirt. The jitters in your stomach as one goes to bed and arises early...not wanting to not hear the alarm clock and miss the start of the race. Oh how I missed the comradery that the racers have with each other, encouraging each other and helping you through to the end. But what I missed most of all was when you come around the last corner, and the finish line is in sight. You SPRINT to get to the end because you've come so far and accomplished so much. And its not because you are aching for it to be over, but because of the incredible accomplishment that you just completed. And then you can proudly show everyone your medal, proving that you are a tri-athlete, and showing what you accomplished.

Therefore not participating in this year's race tugged at my little heartstrings. Being a spectator is a noble part of the race. It would not be at all as much thrilling without them, cheering everyone on. And so I played my part with the specatotors. Giving back to those who gave to me.

Next year I will again join the throngs of those participating in the triathlon, not only spectating. And next year, my husband will also not only be a spectator, but will be swimming, biking and running as well.