Triathlon at Retirement

It is now time to plan for the 2021 competition season. This is a good idea for both the more serious competitors and the beginners.  I go to the competition and events calendars and search for competitions I like to do. Note that the Ironman events are on a separate website.  I type up all potential events on a spreadsheet with dates and location. From there I choose the key competitions, for example a championship, and this year I may try a half Ironman. These will be the focus, and the other events will serve as preparation. By making a plan, I ensure I get adequate training and rest before major competitions which helps performance on the day. I also plan travel dates and vacations away from home with the competition schedule in mind.  Here in Texas, the season opens already in March and I am signing up to a sprint to get an early start. A few competitions really help in sharpening up routines and speed. I do not want to be flustered on an important competition, ...

Age groups for triathlon competitions are calculated per calendar year. So January 1st, we all are considered one year older. If you will be 65 on December 31, 2021, you will be competing in age group 65-69 the entire 2021. On many competitions, the age is marked on your calf so you can spot your fellow age group competitiors. I always have the same reaction:  No way, he/she is much younger!   I am surprised how old the competitors really are, people in the 40s and 50s, I am guessing being in their 20s and 30s.  I conclude that triathletes age really well. /Gunilla