4. Scenario: It's a new race
Why we worry
If you are racing an inaugural race, there will be no race reports, race results or forum discussions for tips or advice.
Preparation toolbox
- Remember that the race directors and crew will be learning just like you.
- You're more likely to have a good race if you realize ahead of time that something is probably going to go wrong. Remember that you have prepared your best, but you may need to adjust your plan.
- Mindfulness mantra: "Everyone is learning."
More: How to Train for an Open Water Race in the Pool
5. Scenario: The course gets modified
Why we worry
It's tough to deal with last-minute changes, like a canceled swim or modified course, when you've been so diligently preparing and visualizing things a certain way. Control is comforting, change is not.
Preparation toolbox
- If possible, study the modified course ahead of time. If the course is modified at the last minute, remind yourself, again, that everyone is in the same boat. This should be validating, because everyone is mentally revising his or her race strategy.
- Remind yourself that you can't change the situation but you can choose how you respond. Don't react out of stress, respond by adjusting your attitude and rising to the new challenge. Who said triathlon was easy, right?
- Mindfulness mantra: "Respond, don't react."
More: How to Pedal Like a Pro Triathlete in Less Time
6. Scenario: The race is canceled
Why we worry
With months of training and resources invested, it's not easy to accept a canceled race.
Preparation toolbox
- It's important to remind yourself that it is the main priority of every race director to keep the athletes safe. It's never an easy situation for an athlete to handle, but often what keeps us safe is not what we want in the moment... and that's OK.
- Mindfulness mantra: "Where does this fit in the big picture?"
If you encounter any of these scenarios, remind yourself that you already have the skills to control situations that are out of your control. Adjust your expectations and plan accordingly. Accept that uncomfortable, unexpected, and unwanted things happen all the time in training and in life, but that doesn't have to stop us from living life. When we choose to focus on what's working well instead of what's not working (or what we wish could have happened), we can perform at a much higher level than we previously thought we could attain.
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