From Fear to Finish line
On the 16th of April, coach texted me: “Would you be interested in an entry to the TA100 in Athy?” I did not immediately say yes or no. I asked what would be the distances. He replied “2km swim – 80km bike and an 18km run. I replied “Aww not too bad,” I thought. Still, I did not commit on the spot. I had a physio appointment that week, and the race was going to fall on my son’s birthday weekend. So, I want to talk with him first and get an approval from the physio as I was still recovering from a calf muscle injury.
By the 24th of April, the transfer was done. I was in. The race was set for the 31st of May – just five weeks away.
Reality sets in
That’s when the panic started. I did not have the gear and found out that I would need a wetsuit, since the swim would be in a river and I have a deep fear of dark water… how amazing, right? Thankfully, I had the loveliest support from the members of Mallow tri club. I reached out to people, and they were willing to help me to overcome my fear, but not just that, but with lots of advice, and encouragement. I felt part of something bigger than myself and that sense of community carried me through every stage of the journey.
Facing the challenges
I knew I had to train smart with limited time I had. I managed to do one brick session – bike and run – just to see how my legs would cope with the transition. But most of my training was focused on the swim, and because I didn’t want to put too much pressure on my calves. I spent a few evening at Ballyhass trying to get used to the wetsuit and the dark water. My breathing was messy, my focus was off and the wetsuit felt like a prison, and it kept rubbing against my neck – so uncomfortable. I was too nervours and some days I felt I wasn’t ready, or maybe this was too much, but everyone kept saying “you will be fine, just go with the flow.” Coach said to me ‘You are more than capable, you just need a little push.’” because I wasn’t planning to do anything this year but I believe that he knew I would be crazy enough to accept – but that sentence made a big difference.
Race Day: Holding it together / The swim
31st of May – On race day, I left early with my husband and kids still asleep in the car. I listened to music, trying to stay calm and remind myself: this is supposed to be fun. When we arrived, the energy was incredible. I met so many club members. We took photos, chatted, laughed. The support was everywhere. That pre-race buzz? Perfect. But the nerves didn’t wait long to return. As soon as I entered the river, my heart started racing, my breath was all over the place, the current was strong and people were everywhere kicking, crowding. It felt chaotic. I checked my watch and I wasn’t even closer to 400 meters, still so far to go. I closed my eyes, went back to all the tips I’d been given, and reminded myself: you can do this, just breathe and focus on your technique. I kicked a few people and got kicked a few times as well but nothing major. Once I reached the bouy at the 1km, the current helped a little. That second half of the swim felt smoother. I made it out of the water and sprinted to transition as I helped a guy with his stuck wetsuit.
THe bike ride: Snacks and Salutes
I grabbed everything I needed and jumped on the bike. I kept my pace steady. I didn’t want to burn out my legs before the run. The scenery was beautiful: a little town, lovely homes, sunshine – it all helped. The ride became more about enjoying the moment than chasing time. I ate all my snacks (and somewhere along the way I realised I might not love cycling as much as I thought). I dropped my bottle and panicked for a second, but decided not to stop as I was afraid it might cause an accident with other cyclists, but now I know why there were so many bottles around the course and how dangerous it is. I pushed a bit harder during the last 10km and rolled back into transition feeling proud, but tough. What made this part really special? I kept seeing members from Mallow tri club out on the course. We would wave, smile or salute each other. Those little moments meant so much- they gave me comfort, motivation, and reminded me of what community is all about. Each one felt like a little kick forward, just when I needed it.
The run: mindset, loops, and high-fives
Then came the run: 18 km, split into four loops. Just as I started, I realised I had to use the toilet – my biggest mistake ever! Trying to get the trisuit back on after was not fun. Thankfully, one amazing volunteer saw me struggling and helped me, and I was so relieved but ended up wasting so much time – though it was a very stressful moment. My knees started acting up early in the run, so I changed my approach: run a bit faster in short bursts, then slow down to recover. The loops were mentally tough, but surprisingly enough, I was able to count all without making a mistake, because when I’m on that type of pressure I get confused or forgetting things. I chatted with anyone who came near me along the way – it gave me a real sense of connection and made the run feel less lonely. Water stations were a godsend. I’d pour water over my head and neck for instant relief. I also kept running into Katie, one of our club members. We high-fived everytime we passed each other. Those tiny boosts of energy? Gold.
THe final push
With 3km left, I decided to go all in. I imagined someone chasing me and gave everything I had left. As I crossed the finish line, the cheering, the music, the energy was unreal. I finished stronger than I ever thought possible.
Final time: 5 hours, 51 minutes, 48 seconds. 6th place in my age category. I was beyond proud – I had set a goal to finish under 6 hours, and I did it.
REflecting on the Journey
Yes, I still have a lot to improve- especially on the bike. But this was a huge achievement for me. Not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. This triathlon reminded me why I love to challenge myself. It taught me that I’m stronger than I think and that the people around you can make all the difference. Question: Would I do it again? Absolutely!!!
To anyone thinking about taking on something that feels too big, too soon, or too scary: Say yes, then show up, then keep going, and do your best.
You never have to do it alone. <3
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