So the last couple of days I've been thinking about how I could possibly keep competing in triathlons and adventure races. The answer to overcoming the cross-country running portion of adventure races has yet to appear...but I think I may have found a solution to triathlons.
The way I see it, I may not be considered disabled by society, but the fact I'm assured time and time again that running is not in my future means that I am 'somewhat disabled' in my mind. So I think I'm going to ask the 'Tri the Parks' committee if it would be possible for me to compete in the area triathlons with a specialized handcycle wheelchair for the running portion of the race. I'm not sure what the rules are, but I figured it was worth a shot...it's not like I'm in it to win it...I just want to get back out there. I thought of walking, but even that is too much for my hip...at this point especially. I would never want to offend anyone by doing this either...so it's still just a thought.
My coworkers and friends have of course laughed at me for the suggestion, but I'm hoping through the jokes and laughter...they understand that not only am I serious...but I completely plan on finding a way to compete again. Even if it's only entering into the race to do the first two stages.
You can't keep a good girl down right? ;)
Anyway, if there are any of you PAO women reading this blog that don't find my suggestion ridiculous and would consider something similar...I would love to hear from you!
On a side note, I got back out on my road bike this Saturday for a decent ride and with exception to the sore pelvic bones from sitting in the racing saddle, it felt pretty good. I was wishing I didn't have a double crank as I was gasping up the hills... :)
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3 comments:
Sam,
I don't think your idea is ridiculous at all. In fact, I think it's a great idea, and if I were you, I probably would have been offended at the people who laughed at it.
They're not us; they're not you. Coming from an athletic background, I also know how hard it is to give up favorite activities, and I'm sure your heart started to beat a little faster when you thought you might have found a way to get back to it.
I say go for it! I hope it works out for you.
Cass
Sam,
I finally clicked on your blog link in facebook and now I know what you are recovering from. Gosh, I am such a bad friend and I didn't even know what was going on and I wished I could have sent some love and support during your trying months. You are definitely an inspiration to me with you still wanting to compete and continue living life to the fullest!!! I think you should be able to do the handcycle for the running portion, why not?? And did I tell you I am planning to do some triathlons this late summer and fall?? I'm so psyched and wished I had you nearby to help me train and push me. As for triathlons, there are some in Panama City Beach, FL where I live which just have swim and bike duathlons. And they have these races four times throughout the summer season. Let me know if you are up to it. My apartment is down the street from the race's starting point. Keep in touch! mkstubljar@hotmail.com Love and miss you, MK You are WICKED AHWE-SOME :)
Sounds awesome!! And you do have a disability - hip dysplasia! I know Dr Murphy and Dr Millis have a different way of doing things - but Dr Millis told me I could be running again in a year - ?? Maybe he was just being nice. :)
Beth
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