As the triathlon season is well underway, I hope you are all enjoying the rollercoaster ride that is triathlon. Now, I call it a rollercoaster ride because of its ups and downs and twists and turns. Whatever your reason to participate in triathlon, and whatever level you are at, it certainly has its highs and lows, and that’s why we love it, it’s addictive in so many ways.

Triathlon is no longer just for the super fit and is inclusive for all. It’s a sport that I am lucky enough to do for a living. The highs are thrilling, with an adrenaline rush like no other, think back to that feeling of crossing the finishing line, how good is that feeling?? A good feeling for so many reasons, reasons personal to each and every one of us. Then you think to the lows, when you have to go out for a three hour bike ride in the freezing cold, or when you can’t compete because of injury.

In October of last year my career was threatened by injury. I have a degenerative back injury and was advised to hang up my wheels and call it a day. On one hand I told myself to be grateful for the very successful career that I’ve already had, on the other hand I wasn’t ready to call it a day, I had unfinished business and so many dreams that I wanted to fulfil. I was in turmoil, knowing that I might have to give up the sport I love so much, however I never gave up believing that I could get better and stronger. As I hobbled around the house, barely able to walk, I opted to get a second opinion and was delighted when the consultant told me that with a strict core and strengthening programme I could return to racing at the highest level. I can’t tell you how good that felt. I feel so thankful and it has made me come back even stronger.

My season has got off to a flying start and there’s so much more to come. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not all smelling of roses. I have my bad days too, but I’m just so happy to still be racing, and grateful to the wonderful support network around me. I wouldn’t be able to do any of this without the support from my family and friends, my sponsors, my manager and not forgetting my iPod. My manager and closest friend always says to me “we’re in this together” and it’s so true, with our belief combined we make the best team.

Whatever your goals are this season, believe in yourself, have a little patience and remember you can’t fail if you never give up trying.

Good luck – train hard
Michelle Dillon