If This Were My Last …

I recently read in the newspaper that some study group had determined more persons died during triathlons than participating in other sports and that most deaths came in the swim portion. That’s a sobering thought. I know there are risks of injury in triathlons, but every time I do one, I’d rather not be contemplating my demise. However, under the rubric of “make every day count,” I’ve often asked myself, “If this were the last day of my life, would I spend it doing what I’m doing now?” Generally, the answer is “yes,” and when it’s not, I’ve moved on to doing something else. Applying the same philosophy to triathlons, while I wouldn’t consider starting each race thinking it could be my last good strategy, as long as I’m willing to accept that possibility, I’ll keep tri-ing.