The Driven 5 Finale

Well the 2009 racing season is finally winding down for everyone and most of the Driven 5 are now recovering or preparing for a few end of season running events. It is hard to believe that we are about to close this chapter and everyone will embark on a new one.

Overall, I am very pleased with how everyone fared and yes everyone did accomplish their original athletic goals. What was great to see was how everyone stayed positive and focused on their goals which is tough to do over such a long period of time and with so many of life's distractions pulling them in different directions.

I noticed a large increase in each athlete's confidence level after they completed each of their events and a genuine passion develop towards the sport of triathlon in general. At least no one has turned their back on the sport!

What I also noticed in each person was a new sense of awareness and respect in terms of the time commitment required to properly prepare for a triathlon both physically and mentally. No one after their event was content with just having "finished" but rather they were already analyzing their performances and looking at how they could improve next year or in a few years. Growth for certain.

Each person explored new personal boundaries this year which I feel is a true motivator and reason why so many of us do endurance events or sport in general. I hope that each member of the Driven 5 will take some time to reflect on their year, their progress, the process we as coaches put them through and be able to answer the question "why do I want to continue doing triathlons" for themselves.

Liz has her sights on completing the Sylvan Lake Half Ironman in 2010. Liz has also proudly reclaimed her athletic self.

Heather is going to focus on running and looks to qualify for the Boston Marathon, maintain her swimming and then get back into triathlons in a few years when her children are in school full time.

Amy has been plotting her path to earning a spot in the 70.3 World Championships in Clearwater for her age group. She and her "guy" Dave are also recently engaged! Congrats you two.

Ari has signed up for Ironman Canada in 2010. He is a lawyer and yes he is single ladies.

Marc is looking to qualify for the Boston Marathon. Marc has also joined the Ironman Club.

All that remains is our wrap-up party on September 24th and I look forward to hearing every one's stories that evening.

Well done gang and thanks for making us proud of our Driven 5 selections - each of you was truly amazing!

Sincerely,

Jack