Tri-Team Ireland in Menen

I have become so used to early morning race starts that the 14.30 kick off was almost jarring. Lots of fuelling conversations on pre race nutrition and coffee timing kept us occupied, although a far cry from the chocolate covered waffles and Belgian beer that was calling out to us from the many patisseries and bars that lined the streets. 

We watched the pros lead the charge, eager to follow suit. The call area was teeming with activity. Mam was taking our pictures and carrying out final pre-race checks for us. First to set off, I made my way down to the start line as the heavens opened again. Like a biblical scene, the reflection of the sky disappeared from the surface of the water, heads went down, the claxon sounded, and we were away! 

The swim was feisty. For a non contact sport we do a good job of making contact. I thankfully I remained unscathed. I had opted for non-wetsuit hoping to save some crucial time which indeed paid its dividends. After scaling the exit ladder and breezing through transition, I had made up significant placing. The rain had calmed but remained which keep us cool throughout the run. Two loops of the town centre with only one slight incline made for a fast paced course. This was made easier by regular intervals of Team Ireland supporters cheering us through the many moments of pain and doubt. 

The finish line loomed just beyond the final corner. My legs like sandbags and my chest felt as though I’d been smoking 40 a day for a decade. With a final sprint up the blue carpet I’d made it. Very soon we all had made it! Mam was waiting across the finish line with towels and water for us, and of course had the phone out ready to check on our live timing results. 

The post race endorphins were high and the Grá for triathlon permeated the hearts of the team. Hugs all around for the athletes, despite being coated in sweat, snot and froth. Medals were worn with pride, and a sense of achievement was felt by all. A very special moment. 

We had quick refuel at the pasta party and caught up with our compatriots and competition alike. Debriefs and split times made for good chatter, and the strava uploads were abundant. Before long it was time to make our way back home again, the event was over but our triathlon journey continues. 

We are excited to see where next years adventure will be. Soon we will be back to the drawing board planning our 2024 events, flights and accommodations. I’m sure we will see each other at races throughout the country while sporting our fabulous new event T-shirts. We hope to see many more new faces getting involved with the international age group racing team. I cannot recommend it enough, what an opportunity it is to represent our wonderful country in our favourite sport.