Runner becomes a multisport enthusiast
Rebecca Taylor joined South Canterbury’s multisport club a year ago because her friend didn’t want to be the slowest in the group – now she’s set to tackle her fifth duathlon.
The Temuka woman’s New Year’s resolution is to add swimming to her repertoire and take on her first triathlon, a goal she will start moving towards after she conquers the runbike-run race at the Timaru Triathlon and Duathlon on January 20.
The race caters to all skill levels as competitors are able to cut out the swimming or compete in teams.
While Taylor is a ‘‘complete novice’’ at swimming she said this was also once the case with cycling – but she tackled her first duathlon three months after her first time on a road bike.
"I didn’t think I’d love it as much as I do, and swimming will change it up quite a bit,’’ she said.
Despite finishing 16 half-marathons and one full marathon before joining the club, adding cycling to the mix created ‘‘a whole new ball game’’.
Her advice to people looking to start triathlon training: ‘‘Try not to panic too much. Just go at your own pace.’’
Advice from experienced athletes in the South Canterbury Pacers group was also ‘‘invaluable’’, she said.
Event co-organiser and triathlete Martina Fellmann said the Timaru triathlon takes competitors through the streets and Church and Stafford Sts will be closed to traffic.
Fellmann expected 20 to 30 people locals to take part, with out-of-towners expected to boost numbers. ❚ Competitors can register on the South Canterbury Pacers website or from 7am on the day at the centre of Port Loop Rd. The race will start at 9am at the south side of Caroline Bay.