Subject: RE: Is triathlon really about participation and not performance?For me, with my firt tri coming up in a couple of weeks, it is a combination of both. As others have said, in the beginning there will be more emphasis on participation. But, as I improve, I estimate that it will also be about performance. I say this because when I started running a year ago, that was just about participation - to know that I could do it. That first 5k run was difficult and I was dead tired and sore for days afterwards. Now, a year later, while not looking to the podium, I do look to improve my times and learn how to run smarter and better. So, in running races, there is the fun of participation, but now also the desire for performance. Outside of a select few who have a chance for the podium, the performance will be an individual goal. Was my time better, did I feel stronger, did I overcome some problem? At the end, I can be happy about finishing - especially as others are still 'on the couch'. And, I can enjoy the cookies and snacks at the finish! |