Mini Triathlon... Small steps (2009)

My first step to Triathlon was a big leap for me. I had a big fear of the sea. I wasn't exactly a stronger swimmer and the thought of being out in the deep waters not knowing what was swimming around me was terrifying .....

Overcoming the fear of sea

Fortunately there were swmming clinics arranged by Tribob (now MetaSports) which helped newbie like myself to overcome our fears and teached the basics of open water swimming.

Open water swimming (i.e. swimming in the sea or lake) is a very different experience from swimming the in pool. Firstly, the water is  not clear and the sea can be choppy thus affecting swim path.  Sea bugs or stinger can sting you and disorient you during a swim which can quite dangerous.

The open water training clincs helped to boost my confidence in the open water. Fast swim starts, sighting often, swimming away from fast swimmers, judging the currents and floating,  were some of the techniques taught.  With all these training under my belt, I was ready for the swim. But what about the bike..

 

First Bike (Mountain Bike) 

My race bike was actually a borrowed Mountian bike which weighed at least  20+ kilos.  Some high end bike can as light as 7 kilos .... My neighbour William was kind to borrow one of his many bikes when he heard that i was attempting my first tri. I wasnt sure whether i will be in it for long term,  borrowing a bike seemed to be a good option for my first race. So for those attempting their first tri (up to Sprint Distance), borrowed or rented bike would be a good option.