As the dust settles and my legs return to normal function I thought it a good to reflect on the events that unfolded during the first race of the season, take stock of what training has helped me achieve and look at what was learnt.
The cliff note version: race time 46.33 minutes, category Position 48.
The stampede
In true spartan fashion there is always room for the unexpected, and being told moments before the start of the race that we would be doing a lap around Suncorp before entering the main stadium threw a spanner in the works as over 100 pumped elites shot out of the gate. Dodging bodies and trees I wove my way between the pack determined to catch up to the front runners and keep them in eye shot, hurtling around the second corner I saw it, the front of the pack, as it quickly ducked around the third corner of the stadium, I sprinted up the gentle incline determined to keep the leaders in my sight I felt unstoppable, there was about 20 individuals ahead of me, I launched myself into the stadium leapt over the toblerones and up the first flight of stairs.
The wall
Coming down to ground level again the traverse wall and balance beam were fun and confidence building, spying the sandbag carry around the corner I got excited, ‘time to make up some ground’ I thought to myself, hoisting the bag onto my shoulders and flying up the stairs. The carry slog is normally where I know I can keep a steady pace moving up. BANG! The 1km sprint had brought my uphill fun to a screaming halt, no speed, no power, just my hammys and glutes screaming out for reprieve, the excitement of the first km was bitting hard. At the top of the stairs excited for the downhill, my heart sank again when I saw the pack spread out and running across the flat of the stadium, trudging across the top for what seemed like an age I caught my breath and was relieved when I saw heads disappear down the stairwell, Woo hoo downhill!!
Burpee Fun
Turning the corner after the middle section of the race I ran into a familiar sight and one I was hoping was not going to rear its head - TRAVELLING BURPEES. What looked like the end seemed far off in the distance and I knew there was nothing to do but get in done. slowly and steadily moving forward I lost a lot of ground to those around me more proficient in the movement that screams FAIL in my head. Something I need to over come.
These are three moments from the race I have been reflecting on most. This is what I learnt from each.
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If circumstances change be flexible enough to change tactic, resilience is the outcome.
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What you are good at may not always be what you do good at. sometimes its humbling to realise you need to try again.
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Its ok not to like something but it’s not ok to mental yourself out of the race. burpees or no burpees.
Thank you to everyone who participated, volunteered, helped out, set up and came to spectate. It was truly an awesome event because everyone made it so. Thank you!
