I can't do this

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sdejan

2011-06-11 8:09 PM

Extreme Veteran

517

Subject: I can't do this

My first tri was in May. I didn't have nerves leading up to it. The bike leg was canceled, so I don't really count it. Tomorrow will be my first "real" tri and all of a sudden I am absolutely certain I'll never be able to do it. I sat at the course talk today feeling sick to my stomach and looking at all these women looking so relaxed and fit. The guy was explaining the bike course and I was completely overwhelmed. OK, guess that's what you call race nerves, but I'm tellin' ya - it's no fun. I just want to curl up in a fetal position in a corner and rock.

I've been trying to think of it as just a big workout, not a race, and reminding myself I don't need "good" times or to beat anyone. Just have a good time and finish.

I've checked my checklist, lubed the heck out of my wetsuit, packed and re-checked everything, eaten my pasta dinner and oh yeah, trained a little leading up until now. I need a good luck totem or ritual. What will guarantee me a good race? Pray to the cheetah god? Is there a "good triathlon" dance? I'm fresh out of dragon blood and eye of newt.

My Race Log

rhff

2011-06-11 8:11 PM

in reply to: #3544168

Regular

114

Burlington Ontario

Subject: RE: I can't do this

Just picture everyone else in their underwear.

Axis of Weasel

2011-06-11 8:25 PM

in reply to: #3544170

112

Subject: RE: I can't do this

i go through the same process, but in all honesty you're there to have fun. it took a lot of hard work to get where you are, just relax and let your training take over.

and if you honestly feel you cant do it, there's no shame in slowing down, or dnf. i'm certain you will finish, use this race for experience, rework your training, and try again.

rhff - 2011-06-11 8:11 PM Just picture everyone else in their underwear.

or spandex

waitaminute...

Edited by Axis of Weasel 2011-06-11 8:29 PM

croixfan

2011-06-11 8:40 PM

in reply to: #3544168

Extreme Veteran

793

Naperville, IL

Subject: RE: I can't do this

One stroke at a time. One pedal circle at a time. One step at a time. Nice and easy. Keep smiling and talking to folks that pass you or that you pass. You've done the hardest part -- training. Now go have a great time tomorrow and reap the benefits of all your hard work!!!!

My Race Log

Atlas_Shrugged

2011-06-11 9:01 PM

in reply to: #3544206

Extreme Veteran

577

Subject: RE: I can't do this

croixfan - 2011-06-11 5:40 PM One stroke at a time. One pedal circle at a time. One step at a time. Nice and easy. Keep smiling and talking to folks that pass you or that you pass. You've done the hardest part -- training. Now go have a great time tomorrow and reap the benefits of all your hard work!!!!

My Race Log

QueenZipp

2011-06-11 9:04 PM

in reply to: #3544168

Royal(PITA)

14262

West Chester, Ohio

Subject: RE: I can't do this

YOu can do it....sometimes you just need a little push to find that out.

My Training Log My Race Log

DougRob

2011-06-11 9:20 PM

in reply to: #3544168

Elite

3395

Raleigh

Subject: RE: I can't do this

Relax. Everyone gets verves. Those calm looking women are nervous too. If you have trained than all the work is done. This is just the application of that work. You will be surprised by the awesome vibe you will experience at the triathlon.

It really IS fun! You will have a blast and you will learn a lot about yourself! I look forward to reading your race report!

My Race Log

smurfcore

2011-06-11 9:21 PM

in reply to: #3544168

New user

247

San Francisco, CA

Subject: RE: I can't do this

Are you scared of bike particularly? I am TERRIFIED of the bike (though I've told myself to stop saying that, so I usually correct myself to say "I am learning to love the bike.") But, what helps me is watching people riding around San Francisco on highway-busy, poorly-marked streets with toddlers on the back. If they can do that, surely I can ride a closed course.

My Race Log

enduropro

2011-06-11 9:48 PM

in reply to: #3544168

Extreme Veteran

421

Central Connecticut

Subject: RE: I can't do this

YOU'RE SCREWED

enduropro

2011-06-11 9:55 PM

in reply to: #3544168

Extreme Veteran

421

Central Connecticut

Subject: RE: I can't do this

But honestly you'll be fine. Yes, you'll sleep like crap tonight (Should be sleeping RIGHT NOW but you're not...haha). Yes you'll forget something at home. Plenty of things might go wrong tomorrow but it'll still be a blast. Then you're hooked. Then we own you. Good luck tomorrow! Looking forward to your after-race post to tell us that it was a fun experience.

GODSPEED

robbmt

2011-06-12 12:50 AM

in reply to: #3544168

214

Subject: RE: I can't do this

"You can't do that, What were you thinking? You are not one of them, You don't belong here, There is no way that you can do this, You must me stupid for doing this, How could you think that you fit in with these people? "

I'm sorry, I truly apologize, it sound like one of my trolls got loose and found your mind. Now just kick him in the head and tell him to get home.

Quit thinking it over, Analyze your performance after the event, it's time to get off tow and go on glide. Have Fun!!!

mr2tony

2011-06-12 3:38 AM

in reply to: #3544168

Champion

34263

Chicago

Subject: RE: I can't do this

I still feel that way before every tri. Relax and remember your training. Youll be A-OK. And remember to have fun!!! Smile!!! Laugh!!! Its supposed to be fun!

My Race Log

Corncub

2011-06-12 6:01 AM

in reply to: #3544168

Veteran

321

Brooklyn NY

Subject: RE: I can't do this

It's 7am here, my first tri of the season is in 2 hrs...I'm waiting for my oatmeal to be ready but cant imagine eating right now, I'm feeling all this stuff too so this is the perfect post for me this am... Have a great time, good luck!

My Race Log

rich-racer-uk

2011-06-12 11:30 AM

in reply to: #3544168