Great article. I did my first triathlon at age 51 just to see if I could finish and was the second slowest swimmer overall out of all racers (pool swim). I loved the experience because I did it!

This year I did my third triathlon (ocean swim) and was thrilled that I was able to complete the swim through cold, windy, rocky currents without freaking out. I swam calmly and focused on my own swim.

When I got out of the water, I was smiling so big because I couldn’t believe how I managed the swim. Last year when I did the same triathlon, the swim was a nightmare and I hated it.

This year, I loved the swim and was so happy throughout the whole race. I was on top of the world experiencing that racer’s high.

A week later, when I was chatting the race with my swim community, I found out that I earned a place on the podium because I was second place in my age/gender category. I was surprised and delighted but it didn’t make much of a difference because I already knew I had the best personal race ever.

And for the record, it wasn’t a “fast finishing time,” just so happens that few women will attempt triathlons in my age group.

I’m not at the level of a “serious competitor” (I’m more of a “for fun racer” ) and I can’t imagine being that close to finishing at first place in a swim competition and feeling bummed about it.

But your story has shown me insight into what it must be like for racers in serious competition. I never really thought about how disappointing athletes could feel if they get “only” silver or bronze. From a spectator perspective, I’m wowed that you got to the top 3 and admire the hard work you put in to get to that level.

There is only one spot for the number 1 swimmer, but there needs to be a whole group of competing swimmers for that to happen.

Being in the top 3 overall is no easy feat. You did amazing. Most of us are struggling to tread water, while being inspired by people like you! 👍💪🙏 well done.