What should a coach say to his client the day before the most important triathlon of his life?
My client, Bill Beyer, recently competed in Ironman Couer d’Alene (2.4-mile swim / 112-mile bike / 26.2-mile run) on June 21st. This was Bill’s first Ironman in 2 years after a foot injury in 2007 and surgery in 2008.
Here’s what I said to Bill before the race:
One more thought.
You’ve done most of the training, especially the past few weeks, by yourself. I remember you saying a while ago that you were looking to me for motivation. Because of injury and other stresses in my life, I have been struggling with my own motivation and I don’t believe I was able to help you much there.
HOWEVER, what I see you in you is a man who found motivation and desire WITHIN HIMSELF – a man that is self-motivated and ready to go out and face his hero’s journey (you’ve been on a journey now since January 1).
When you are out there on race day and start to feel bad – like everyone who does an Ironman, you inevitably will feel bad – remember that true desire and motivation comes from within.
I believe in you.
Bill went on to finish the race in a time of 10:52:57 to beat his 2007 Coeur d’Alene time by 1 hr 16 minutes and claim a Kona slot as part of the Executive Challenge.
Nice job, Bill!
Live life richly and boldly!
David
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David B. Glover
Author of Full Time and Sub-Nine
© 2009 David B. Glover
Whether you're training to win a triathlon, training to finish or just need inspiration from my life journey as a cancer survivor, Navy officer and sub-nine hour Ironman triathlete, my book will inspire you to chase your dreams and live life richly and boldly.