On the 11th of September, I took part in a triathlon in Skerries, Dublin. A triathlon is a race involving three different sport disciplines; swimming, cycling and running. My Dad and I travelled to Dublin on the Saturday to ensure that I would be well rested for the following day’s event. Sunday morning we got up early and made our way to Skerries. Upon arrival at the course we went straight to registration. I got my timing chip which tells me my time after each event. I also collected my hat and race stickers. I was number six. I then went to the transition area to set up my bike, runners and helmet. I put talc in my runners so as to make them easier to get on after my cycle. My race was delayed, so my friend Ameliea and I went to watch the adult’s race. Soon it was time for race briefing where all the rules and regulations were explained to us. Shortly after, they brought us down to the beach where we lined up ready to set off. I was feeling good and confident, as swimming is my strong point. I had washing up liquid in the legs of my wetsuit to help remove it quickly. It was a 200 metre swim and I was first out of the water. I pulled my wetsuit down to my waste and ran into transition. I put on my runners and helmet, un-racked my bike as hurriedly as I could and off I went on a 6km cycle. While the cycle was tough I was still in first place at the end of this section so my confidence increased even further. The last discipline to tackle was the 1.5km run. Unfortunately I was overtaken on the run and finished in second placeJ. I was still really happy. I was given a trophy and a medal. I really enjoy doing triathlons and while this is the last race of the year, I am already looking forward to the next season.
by Molly Boote
