Meet Kathleen Baran. Her very first Triathlon experience was the Sage City
Triathlon. Let’s hear her story!
“My name is Kathleen and I’ve been a registered dietitian at
Kirby for 3 years now. In my spare time, I enjoy swimming, spending time
with my pets, and being outdoors! I have done it the last two years, once
individual and once as a team. I will tell you about my first individual
experience!
A few of my co-workers were doing triathlons and invited me to start training
with them as I was a swimmer in high school. We trained all summer in
preparation for it. I figured I’d give it a try as something new
and because I was already comfortable swimming.
I expected it to be challenging as I am neither a runner nor a cyclist.
My biggest fear was falling off the bike or getting a flat! Luckily, neither
of those things happened.
My experience was fantastic! I completed it with my best time and even placed 3rd in my age group. I exceeded my own expectations by completing something
that was outside of my comfort zone. What started out as an extra activity
to just swim with a team turned into a great experience that helped me
get stronger both athletically and mentally.
Give it a shot! Anyone can do it, and even if there is a portion you are
uncomfortable with, get a group together and do it as a team! It’s
a lot of fun and you get the benefits of physical activity too”