Mark always says to my friends and to those who root me on at a race that if I notice them during competition I am having a bad day. That is not too far from the truth. When I am racing, I put on my game face and get into the zone. This past weekend at the Muskoka 70.3 race, my parents were standing at the swim exit (notice them in the photo, my father in the white cap and my mother in the yellow jacket and me pulling off my wetsuit) right in front of me, yet I never saw them. In fact, all of my run shots are about the same, a very stoic face, mouth agape, hardly ever a smile. I am always focused on the moment, how I am feeling, thinking about a smooth transition, determining my next move, calculating my calories or Saltstick intake, sometimes fighting the demons. But, rest assured, I almost always enjoy the moment, and I am smiling on the inside. Even though my outward appearance is one of seriousness don’t be fooled. After all of these years, I still absolutely love what I am doing, particularly on race day. Despite my complete focus, I thrive on the competition and pushing myself to my limits and when people cheer it gives me a huge boost even if it seems like I didn’t hear. So, go out there and enjoy your races in the way that suits you best, whether it is with a smile, grimace, laughter or tears.

Race hard, have fun.

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