One of the places Clara lived in California...
Pure Motivation
There are always little reminders hovering around; as if waiting to see if you’ll notice the lessons and perspective they offer. At my best, I feel as if I’m moving through time with awareness that they’re out there just for me. At my worst, I’m blinded just like the rest, wondering why I feel lost or confused. Lately, it’s been the former, and I’m left feeling energised with a sense of clarity that makes me feel so inspired.
This inspiration comes in many forms. Being a part of a team that’s positive and driven (training group) makes working hard seem ridiculously easy, even when we’re all so tired and sore that stairs become a daunting task to climb or decsend. We have a few new guys in the group this year that want to improve so badly, yet are so fun to be around, and it’s been a refreshing change for the group. Especially for me, because in all honesty this sport thing that I continue apply myself to can get old pretty fast if I’m not careful. My new training partners have added a whopping dose of ‘beginner’s mind’ to the environment I spend most of my time in, and I’m grateful.
Another reminder came today in the form of an email. After finally opening up a week’s worth of cyber-mail, I happened upon a note from a young cyclist who I have tried to help out with advice if she asks, and just positive support. Her name is Monique Sullivan and I’m proud to say that she qualified first at the Junior World Track Championships yesterday in the qualifying round of the match sprints (velodrome). I know Monique because her Coach, Tanya Dubnicoff, is a good friend of mine. I also covered the National Championships here in Calgary a few years ago for CBC, and she wowed the audience by winning not only the junior title but also beat all the senior women in the 500m event. I think she was 15 years old at the time.
With obvious talent, everyone knew she would go far. But to see her do so well- no matter what the final result of World’s- is extra special because I know the road to get here, now, has not been easy. The path of the athlete is often a lonely, difficult road, and it can be full of uncertainty. Along the way with emails, a cup of tea here or there, I’ve seen Monique struggle with all the things I went through at a young age. It’s difficult even when you are good. And believe me, she is the real thing.
Monique wrote about a road ride she did down in Coorado Springs before leaving for Mexico (Junior Worlds), where she had this realization “that day it really clicked! I was on a road ride, and I realized that I have worked so hard to get where I am right now. I have done all the training I needed to do and now it is time to enjoy it and perform. In the afternoon, during the track session, I just focussed on exactly what I needed to do in the moment and it worked!”
What this reminded me of is why I go through this training once, twice a day- six days a week- no long weekends, no parties, no kayak trips with my husband that I am so sad to miss….Why I put myself through all of the challenges- it’s to get to that point where I can look at myself and think “yes, this is it- I’ve done everything I possibly could have, and now is the time to go and see what I can really do!”
More importantly, it’s realising the gift in this opportunity, and running with it.
Thanks, Monique.
