Winter training camp in the California desert

Well it has been two weeks since I left the Ohio winter for some "Sirius" triathlon training. I am living out in the southern California desert training with my coach, Siri Lindley, and the other Team Sirius athletes. This has been a whole new adventure for me. As a rookie pro, training with some of the world's greatest professional triathletes, can be a bit intimidating. I have to say,  however, that this is the most welcoming and energetic group I have ever met. I can't imagine being anywhere else right now and know that this fabulous ride has only just begun. 

 Our group is made up of all different men and women triathletes and a variety of focuses. We have everything from Olympic hopefuls to half and full Ironman racers. Everyone is here to become the best they can be, train hard, and to have fun while pushing ourselves to the limits.
The weather hasn't been quite what you would imagine a desert would be like. In two weeks we've had rain, snow,  horrific winds, and also plenty of sun.  I am still waiting for the warmer temperature, as we are layering up every morning. I imagine in a few weeks I may regret saying that.... I do not have a car here, so after a hard session, my idea of fun is not getting back on my bike to ride home and push through the wind at barely 5mph....What won't kill me can only make me stronger, right?!?!

 Since everyone is on a different game plan for their race focus, Siri makes sure that each individual is on a specific training plan. However, whenever possible, we get in key sessions together as it is awesome to be able to push yourself against your peers. The cheering and support is amazing as well. Sometimes Siri ever rides along in her car with her pack of dogs, radio blasting, motivating and coaching us to our potential. I have never had the daily eye of a coach watching over me. This has already become an invaluable experience for me in everyway imaginable, especially with my swimming.

As many know, I do not have a swimming background, nor have I really ever had proper direction on building strength, speed, and correct form.  It is amazing to have Siri watching and correcting me in the pool. She really cracks the whip since the pool isnt my favorite place to be. We call the pool that was created for our camp here, " the fishbowl" It is pretty much like swimming in open water everyday.

 Although I have only been here a short while I have made progresses, not only in my physical strength, but also mental strengths as well. Intensity is my new friend. Laughter, is an old one, that has come back to stay. I have laughed more in the past few weeks than I have in a really long time.( thanks Takka, Anna, Mags, Donna, Jenny, and Siri) My love for triathlon has really reignited. I am grateful for everyday I can continue to learn and grow out here.  I am grateful for the new friends that I have made. Their experience, wisdom, and hearts have made this experience more amazing than I could have ever imagined.  I can only hope that I will be able to give back to them someday in the same ways.

     I am a believer that there are no mistakes in life. This new adventure is proof.