Chris Writing Anything

Should I, or shouldn’t I? As this month passes, I realize that questions looms over me…and I increasingly ask myself that question. The decision deals with age, skill, want and self realization. “Chris,” I hear you say, “What monumental task are you considering?” Well, okay, I’m sure you didn’t use those words. But hey, since I believe you asked, my dilemma pertains to a triathlon. In this post, I’ll explain why there’s such an inward struggle.

First of all, it’s been a topic for years, and I do mean years, and that subject is the Wolfman Triathlon. And now, being that I’m nearing fifty, I’m wondering if this is my last chance.

Before delineating my thoughts, I’ll explain what type of triathlon the Wolfman is. It’s an adventure race. It’s whitewater kayaking, trail running and mountain biking. The distances aren’t crazy, but, should you finish, it’d definitely be a respectable accomplishment.

And I’ve dreamed, yes, literally, I’ve had dreams, anyways, I’ve wanted to participate in this race for over a decade, wait, actually it’s been longer than that. When I look back at whatever sent me fantasizing about it in the first place, man, I have to laugh.

Okay, before I even start to explain, I’ll admit, my reasoning was ridiculous. But this is what I believed…I was a smoker, so a three mile kayak sprint, a 3.1 trail run and a thirteen mile bike ride, I thought that was doable, I mean, even for a smoker…yeah, I know, and you don’t have to tell me, I didn’t stand a snowball’s chance in hell.

Well, now, being realistic, much has changed…and I’m in really good shape. I know, me stating that I’m in good shape comes off as conceited. But really, I’m fifty years old, and I can run five miles…I think I’m physically fit, especially when contrasted to my condition fifteen years ago.

Even though I’m fit, there are things I fear. The most profound worry, and, really, this is spurred by an unknown, as I was saying, I’ve never kayaked whitewater rapids…never! So, yeah, visions of my bloodied skull drowning in a shallow creek…okay, maybe a bit too graphic, but I worry about serious injury. I’m a novice, and the danger is certainly there.

Also, and just as treacherous, well, they’re hazardous to me, some woodland plants can induce an asthmatic reaction. I fear a trail run that is hampered by a toxic plant. Worse yet, I can’t identify which blossoms pose a threat. So, even if I researched the host forest’s vegetation, I’m entering the race area blind.

But that may be an excuse. I think the proper thing, at least the correct preparation, would be to really research my condition. Then, if I understand my precise ailment, I’d be aware to what would sideline me.

As far as the bike ride…bring it!! No, seriously, I’m more confident than I have ever been. And thirteen miles, unless I’m climbing the Colorado Rockies, it should really pose no threat.

Anyways, those are my goals. Since I’ve been twelve, I’ve dreamed of participating in a triathlon. I’m never going to learn how to swim, well, at least I don’t think I can swim two miles. But, I can certainly kayak that distance…and a little more.

So, with all that being said, there are a few things holding me back. First, I’d have to take a few days off of work. And, even though the change of scenery would be ideal, I don’t know if I want to use the vacation days. If I don’t use them, and they accumulate, come the end of the fiscal year, my paycheck will be very large.

Secondly, it’d be a full weekend, and I’d be alone. If I had a partner, the weekend, and the race, would most likely blow me away. But, for now, I’d be embarking on my triathlon adventure solo…eh, even though I’ve done many things on my own, I’d feel more comfortable with family and friends.

Lastly…it’s a triathlon, and while the distances aren’t crazy, it’s still a daunting venture. But I’m turning fifty, and because of that, during my runs, while I’m lifting and, certainly, when I roll out of bed, my body is screaming, “You aren’t young anymore!”

And I know my body’s right.

So, this has to be done soon.

Don’t get me wrong, most likely, I’ll finish the race easily. Still, that race in the Northwoods, which is a giant unknown, might simply be a unicorn, one I might only claim to seek out.

Have an Excellent Day!!