Going to a large triathlon race, like Ironman and Half Ironman is much like attending an elaborate family reunion.
There are my brothers and sisters. Those from Central Coast triathlon club. These are the kind souls who withstand training with me or interacting with me after we train.
Like true siblings, there are rivalries and favouritism but always with an eye out for each other and a pat on the back (or kick up the butt) when deserved. We break bread together, we talk incessantly about our toys and we fart, snot and spit in each others presence, without a second thought. Ok, maybe that last part is just me…Apologies in advance to all those afflicted with my snot rockets during tomorrow’s Ironman 70.3 race.
More than anything, we support each other and without them I couldn’t and wouldn’t be able to do what I love!
There is the extended family, many of whom you don’t actually know but can see they are closely related.
There’s the weird cousins, who have no life beyond triathlon – they are easy to spot, as they all have that certain hardcore triathlon gene that they proudly display. There’s also the family members you try to avoid, the leery uncles who gave up triathlon years ago but still attend these family events to slobber on about ‘that one time…’
The wise grandparents of the sport have witnessed many generations cross the finish line. They pass on the heritage and folk lore of triathlon like they are holding court. There is fanfare and pomp surrounding each tale, that gets a little more extravagant with each telling. They truly deserve our respect as they toil through keeping the family tradition alive.
As we slosh, sweat and pound our way through this reunion, there will be battles and conquests; comradery and companionship; tears of pain and joy; but, we will all remain family. An alternate family, but one of the same ilk and joined by the triathlon bond.
And, of course, there are those who couldn’t make it to the reunion today, but are fondly missed and often asked after (usually by the leery uncles). We know their hearts are with us as they send messages of encouragement from afar.
What’s your alternate family?
Xk
