The Southam autumn triathlon took place on the 3rd of September, and despite it being the autumn race the day was very, very hot.
This triathlon was a different experience for me as I haven’t done that many triathlons before and not in the heat. I had done the Southam spring triathlon, but that was a different experience; the course was very muddy due to the rain. This time, after setting up my transition, I walked the course to check out all the corners and hills on the run and bike sections.
After the race briefing, I waited for my time to head into the pool with some of my fellow club members. Once it was time to go into the pool, I collected my timing chip and started my least favourite part of the triathlon, the poolside wait! Luckily I didn’t have too long to wait until I could set off, and once I got in the water the time flew by. I got to the end of my eight lengths, and once I had passed through transition I got on the bike and unfortunately got a stitch quite soon after starting (I probably should have gone on more bike rides over the summer, whoops!).
Thankfully the stitch didn’t last too long, and after re-entering transition for the last time I headed out for the run. The run I found particularly difficult due to the heat and because the course involves what felt like twenty hills (it’s probably more like four). Finally, I finished and was able to sit down in the shade and recover my breath and celebrate with my family and friends.
Overall, I like Southam triathlon because it’s a challenging course, which makes it interesting to complete.
Race report by Dot.
