After RTNT got me into Project Training Wheels, I was toying with the idea of attempting a triathlon one day since I’ve now learnt how to cycle and I can run comfortably. To get me ready, I went to the same coach from Project Training Wheels for swimming and cycling lessons for two months of training. He encouraged me to take part in the Metasprint Aquathlon 2018 and I did – I signed up for the Discovery category which consisted of a 250m swim and a 2km run. 

 

I cannot swim freestyle and I’ve never swam in the sea before. One month before the event, I went for my first open water training at East Coast Park. Within the first five minutes of entering the sea, I panicked and asked to get out of the water. The coach patiently guided me back into the sea and I slowly got used to it. Cheryl (RTNT founder) also took me to a few swim practice sessions at Sentosa and gave me useful tips. 

 

 

Today, I can proudly write that I’ve attempted and completed my first aquathlon. I was so nervous about the event – worried I wouldn’t be able to complete it, worried I would be hauled out of the water for not meeting the cutoff time, worried that I would get kicked in the water…

 

I was warned that I may be kicked by others during the swim leg, so I conservatively stayed behind.. but no, you still ended up getting kicked. During training, you have the luxury of space with no one around you, so to suddenly be surrounded by other swimmers was something I was not prepared for. 

 

Thankfully I remembered to remain calm and I finished the course! The run was welcoming to me as it was my comfort zone, albeit I had heavy legs after the swim.

 

I am very grateful to have the RTNT group being so supportive and congratulating me after this event.  This will not be my last!