Jim
In five short years, Jim went from running for fun to a ½ Ironman Triathlon. Not bad for a guy who would have previously said, “Do a race that takes six hours to complete –You’re nuts!” In the past, Jim ran 10-15km for fun. He decided to go big and tackle a marathon. After achieving a Boston Marathon qualifying time, he asked himself, what’s next? When someone suggested he give triathlon a try, his first response was “Are you crazy?”
After giving it some thought, he bought a road bike, signed up for the YWCA Masters Swim Program, and started training. Jim successfully completed two Olympic distance triathlons (1.5km swim, 40km bike, 10km run), but continued training caused a stress fracture.
With his 50th birthday looming and the goal of a ½ Ironman Triathlon (2km swim, 90km bike, 20km run), Jim decided it was time to seek professional help.
With the help of personal trainer, Paul Cross, Jim developed a nine-month training plan that would prepare him for the Oliver ½ Ironman Triathlon. As fate would have it, four days before the race he had a severe reaction to antibiotics. Sadly, at the last minute, he had to withdraw. Having put so much time into training for the race, Jim felt like his hard work was untested.
While recuperating, Jim decided to adopt a different attitude. He decided to take it easy, have fun, and see what would happen. One month later another ½ Ironman Triathlon caught his interest and just a few days before the race he entered. Bringing his new attitude to the start line, he finished 2nd in his age category.
What is the key to Jim’s success? Discipline, commitment and good coaching. Of course listening to his body and knowing his limits played a big part. He also added “never give up, no matter what you are going through, never lose sight of your goal.”
Jim has been a dedicated member at the YWCA Health & Fitness Centre for the last 10 years. Regular training at the Health & Fitness Centre, his YWCA personal trainer, and encouragement and support from fellow members and staff contributed to his success.
