I, as many runners like me, finally reached a certain point. A point where voluntarily running 26.2 miles wasn’t… quite… stoopid… enough.

There are many solutions to this.  Some will dream up a costume or run in a full military or civilian service uniform. Those inclined toward becoming being highly caffeinated mountain goats will try ultras. Those who want to trade mind-erasing endurance for speed go for a 5k.

Me, I thought I’d attempt a triathlon. It’s not as bad as you think; I have no illusions about my ability to complete a full Ironman. (MUCH respect to all who have.) Fortunately for me there are many triathlon distances to choose from; I’ll be trying an Olympic length, the Westchester Triathlon in my own home town of Rye NY. Easy, yes? 10k run, 1.5k swim, 40k mile bike. Only I don’t ever, you know, swim or bike.

I have a relationship with this race already. It’s in my own town of Rye NY, which means that I have, for a few years now, been in the middle of a late September Sunday long run, training for one marathon or another, when it was being held on the quiet roads of the town of Rye. It’s possible that I may have mooched off its water stops a time or two.

Marathons are still a challenge. But a familiar one. I’m looking forward to being a raw newbie at this. There are bound to be a few massive mistakes along the way. (Will the first one be thinking I can be ready for this in 8 weeks?? Whee!) Or not. I surely underestimate my studliness (shut up, you.) Either way, I’ll record them here. Hope you enjoy.