Project 25

Just about right. Courtesy @ultimatebodies IG account

Based on the previous posts, I am sure persons might have been asking themselves “What is Kairon really trying to do in this triathlon?” I guess I would have given them some reason to ask this question because the triathlon consists of three sports and I have not indicated any degree of comfort in any. We all know about my relationship with swimming (which I am happy to report, we are seeking counseling. But more of that in another post) and my relative recentness with the sport of cycling and more specifically road cycling, which leaves one other aspect…Running

By the process of elimination, I would have to say that the run is my strongest ‘leg’ of the triathlon. I did do a bit of track and field when I was younger and generally enjoyed running as a means to get fit but injuries would often be my downfall. Luckily for me, I have been educated a great deal through friends and general reading on ways to prevent injury and as such am able to take the load of the training so far.

According to Strava, my fastest 5K on record is 27:12. It won’t quite be considered blistering by any means but it is something to work with. I have set a goal of 25 minutes to complete the 5K at the triathlon which obviously will require a lot of training. If I am to put things in perspective that would mean that I need to get down to a 21 or 22 minute 5K if I am doing that alone. Fortunately, I am friends with T&T champion long distance runner, Richard Jones, who has offered to assist me in getting to the magical 25 minute mark for the triathlon.

Mr. Jones

For the last few weeks, Richard has been giving me different workouts all geared towards me building the necessary strength and then eventually developing the speed and endurance needed to run a 25 minute 5K after swimming and riding. The workouts have been manageable if not entirely ‘kind’ and sometimes painful. I do enjoy running, generally, but having a sprinter mentality (I ran 100m and 200m for a bit) makes the longer workouts a bit more challenging. Above all though, I have clearly stated my goal to Richard and he is going to guide me in the best way possible.

Contemplating whether he can help me get to 25

In terms of race strategy, the run is an opportunity to make up ground. I know my swimming is going to put me at a disadvantage at the start and I will have to do my best with the cycling. I have realized though that many people do not particularly fancy the run which, depending on how you look at it, may be my only chance at gaining some type of advantage albeit very small.

Technically my running form is pretty okay. As with everything though, there is a lot to work on. From stride length and stamina to controlled breathing and pacing I am going to have to piece together a lot of small parts in order to make the time that I want.

 Is it attainable? I think so. Will it be easy? Definitely not!

I have the help and the motivation. Once I stay healthy, who knows how close to 25 I can get.

For those reading, do you like running? If you do triathlons, would you consider the run your strongest leg?

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