My first ever triathlon was the first Syracuse Iron Girl in 2009. I had never planned on being a triathlete. But my friend Missy kind of challenged me to join her in doing her first one, and I am not one to back down from a challenge. Because this was the first time the event was coming, there were quite a few newbie triathletes. Many women who had never done an open water swim. Women who didn't even own a bike. Women who had only just started running 5ks (myself included). But we all took on the Iron Girl challenge, and they made us all believe that we could, and that we would in fact, finish the race. Up until the day of the race I was doubtful that I could do this. I questioned my sanity in taking on such a big challenge. I had only done my first 5k two months earlier. I only got a handful of swimming workouts in. What the hell was I thinking. Missy and I kept encouraging each other that we could do it. ...
My journey, trying to be an Ironman, while dealing with anxiety, depression, body dysmorphia, self doubt, and life as a single mom with two grown sons, a crazy ass dog, and a handful of cats.