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Emma completes the Blenheim Triathlon

By slhaf | July 6, 2010

Emma Morris Blenheim TriathlonH&F’s Emma Morris talks about competing and having a ball at The Blenheim Triathlon, near Oxford on Saturday June 5, 2010.

‘I’m gasping for breath as I emerge from the water, tottering back on to dry land. Thankful I’ve survived the 400m swim in a murky lake with 150 other women, my mind has to switch to the next task in an instant: running barefoot up a steep hill towards Blenheim Palace while peeling my wetsuit down to my waist!

I’m in the transition area in a jiffy, wrestling to get my wetsuit off, then putting on my bike shoes, helmet and sunglasses. I grab my bike from the rack, hitch my race number belt round so the number’s on my back and run out of the transition area, ready to jump on my bike.

‘Head down, I cycle up the hill and on round the undulating course through the beautiful grounds of the Duke of Malborough’s estate. Two laps and 13km later, I pull back in to the transition area, jumping off my bike and running alongside it, looking for my kit amongst everyone else’s. I change into my trainers, adjust my kit and head off, shaky legged, for the 3km run, my least favourite part. The sun’s thankfully gone behind the clouds but it’s still a very hot day, and my legs feel like lead. I’m willing them to go faster but they, like my lungs, are protesting!

‘As I head up the hill towards the castle, I know the finish line’s not far away, so I pump my arms and keep going. I hear my friends cheering me on as I enter the final straight and drive for the finish line…

‘Triathlon’s an exciting sport to compete in and to watch and it’s great for all-round fitness. I love the variety of the training too – you don’t get bored with it, and if your legs are tired one day, you can try practising swimming in a wetsuit and not using your legs much (a good tactic for saving energy for the bike and run in a triathlon). I can’t wait for my next tri challenge!’

Emma took part in the Super Sprint distance and came third in her age category!

Now you try
Not sure where to start? There are lots of coaches around, so book yourself in for some sessions in your weakest bits and you’ll be amazed how quickly you’ll progress with a bit of dedication. Go to www.britishtriathlon.org and click on find a coach near you.

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