When you set out on an adventure you are leaving a legacy. It is your legacy. Don’t just talk about what you want to do. Do something. Your plan needs action. I was 54 years old and probably living a mid-life crisis. Regardless, I was going for something, even if I fail.

Preparation for the triathlon lasted 32 weeks. Laps and intervals at the community pool went from 400 meters (16 laps) to 4000 meters (160 laps). Often counting the laps was the hardest part. Toward the end of training I would be in the pool for two hours, twice a week. At least I was confident I could swim 2.4 miles without stopping. Surely, a swim around a lake would be the same as a pool. I’ve got this.

The first 12 weeks of training on the bike took place in spin class with a long ride on a stationary bike on the weekend. True cyclists kept saying, “You need to get outside,” and I replied, “Buy me a bike and I will.” Finally, I borrow a bike from a friend. By the end of training my weekend ride reaches 65 miles outside.

On a couple of weekends I combine the swim with a bike ride. I calculated my times to complete each phase and I think I can make it. Anyway, that’s all the time and energy I have to prepare. I’ll keep my heart rate in a good range. All I have to do is survive and finish… and say thank you for the t-shirt.

Let your kids know what you went through to pursue your dreams. Tell them of your preparation and actions and sacrifices.

It is your legacy. Tell it.

(This is part 5 of attempting an endurance triathlon.)