2007 Danskin Triathlon 2nd overall

Sun, 29 Jul 2007 16:35:16 GMT

As I tossed and turned the night before the 2007 Danskin Triathlon, I thought a lot about what I have accomplished in this sport so far. I have had an amazing few years of training and racing - I am so thankful for all that I have been able to accomplish so far. I was also was very anxious and nervous about the race. I won the race last year, and had a fear that I might not be able to do it again. When I woke up for the race I shook that fear out of my head, and just focused on the task at hand. Also, I was so excited that my Mom and Dad came from Virginia to see me race! This was the first time they had seen me do at triathlon since the early 90's when I was competing with little training. Jude, Shanti, and David were also there to cheer me on!

We got to the race in plenty of time and all was looking good for a great event! When the gun went off, I was just determined to give it everything! I sprinted out in front very fast and did my best to hold that intensity the whole swim. As I got out of the water I powered up the hill to transition. I was once again by myself on the bike, but did not know how far back everyone else was. I just pedaled as hard as I could. I am glad I knew the course well, because toward the end of the bike it was not clear where to make the right turn to go into the park (good preparation was a must)! After a good T2 I began to run, but realized that my legs had no spring. I felt like I was running in sand. I knew I would have to dig deep with some fast runners on my heels! I just ran as fast as I could and prayed I would be able to run HARD to the end! I looked back a few times to see if they were getting closer, and didn't see anyone. I worked so hard that I could not stand on my own at the end of the race! I gave it my best effort!! On this day a young Avery Visser (14), who started 1 minute after our swim wave, had a faster time, so I was second by about 24 seconds. Congrats to Avery! I will have to train harder so I can attempt the win again next year, but the fight was exciting and fun! It was a great day.

Also, I was so proud of my friend Barbara for completing her first triathlon! She did a fantastic job and had a lot of fun. Congratulations to her and all the other women that finished the race!!

Jeannie Samson - Race Results

2007 Danskin Triathlon 2nd overall