CHAPTER NINE

AT THE RACES

While there may be a few reading this who prefer never to enter a race—instead simply enjoying the challenge of training for swim, bike, run—for the majority of triathletes training is a means of getting to our ultimate destination: the race finish line. It is the racing, and especially our A race, that is our ultimate focus and challenge, the culmination of everything we have worked so hard for, the moment where we want to perform to the very best of our ability and celebrate the journey we have taken and what we have achieved.

For me, racing was my time to perform on some of the world’s biggest stages, the opportunity to battle, and test myself, against my competitors, to answer my own questions and, hopefully, realise my dreams. My race performances were also a publicly visible means of inspiring others, both those whom I raced alongside and spectators, near and far. Through competing I wanted to convey the message that more truly is possible. Yes, the journey to get there was incredibly valuable and enjoyable, but it is the races that are some of my proudest achievements.

This chapter comprises sections on a variety of subjects related to racing, including practical tips for your pre-race preparations, mastering the art of transitions, coping when races may not go well or reflecting back on your performances as a stepping-stone to future success. I include reports from some of the more important moments of my career: the Ironman World Championships in 2007, 2010 and 2011, and reflections on Katy’s A race, the Alpe d’Huez Triathlon in 2015.