Hey, hey.  I survived my first post-pregnancy triathlon and lived to tell the tale.

IMG_1141

Last night, I was in bed, positively obsessing about the race.  For the first time, I felt really, really terrified.  I felt so out of practice – would I panic during the swim? Crash on the bike? Vomit on my shoes during the run?  Maybe, maybe, and most likely.  In the dark, I talked myself off the metaphorical ledge, running through the entire race in my mind.  At 11:30, I willed myself to go to sleep.

 

When Henry started to squirm at 3:15 AM, I realized this was not going to be like any normal triathlon.  This was my first tri as a mom.  I pulled myself out of bed and nursed Henry, rocking him back to sleep as quickly as possible.  At 4:45, my alarm went off. 

 

DadHTP pulled up 30 minutes later.  I was so happy that he was coming for support (I really wanted the Husband to stay at home with the baby; I was afraid Henry would be overwhelmed by the race atmosphere or get hot). 

IMG_1181

The race took place at a local YMCA that backs up to a really nice lake called Lake Norman.  In the dark, I headed over to packet pick-up, grabbed my timing chip, and got bodymarked with my race number.  Then, I set up my gear in transition.  Suddenly, it all felt like… well, riding a bike.  I remembered what it was like to tri!

IMG_1138

As mentioned, this was my first momma tri.  And that means there were some complications.  The first came with nursing.  Basically, the way breastfeeding works is this:  especially in the early months (and especially if you have oversupply like me), you have to nurse or pump every few hours or your breasts become painfully full.  My limit is about 4 hours.  Running is most comfortable if you can time it right after a feeding or pumping session.  Since I had last pumped at 5:00 AM and wouldn’t finish the race until after 9:00 AM, I knew I had to pump before the start.  My wave didn’t enter the water until 7:15, so at 6:55, I walked back to my car and pumped.  It wasn’t ideal with the run being the last leg of the race, but it worked.  In terms of support, I had to double up on sports bras, but that was no big deal.

 

The second complication was food intake.  I ate three packets of Gu (basically easily digestible carbohydrates in gel form for quick, mid-exercise energy), which totals 240 calories.  This is what I always took in during my pre-pregnancy tris, and it was usually satisfactory.  I didn’t realize until halfway through the bike that I probably needed more fuel than before – one, I’m 10 pounds heavier, and two, I’m nursing (which burns 300 – 500 calories a day).  I got a little hungry on the run, and I’m sure it didn’t help my performance, but it was a short enough race that it didn’t matter too much.   It was a good lesson to learn, though. 

 

Anyway – at 7:10 or so, I headed into the lake.  I was nervous but reminded myself that the swim would be, by far, my strongest leg.

IMG_1145

My personal goal for the swim was to swim in a straight line.  This sounds easier than it actually is in a lake.  I have been practicing my sighting technique non-stop (when you look up to spot the buoys mid-stroke), and my skill really came in handy. 

 

All in all, the 750 meter swim was great.  I was strong, steady, and didn’t panic.  When I exited the lake, I felt like I still have gas in my tank.

IMG_1147

Quite honestly, my technique for transitions was to take it really, really easy.  I knew that I would place in the back of the pack in my age group regardless and didn’t want to rush through transitions when I could use them to recover a bit. 

IMG_1171

My game plan for the bike leg was similar – take it easy and don’t crash.  Hah.  No, really.  I’ve always been weak at the bike but after only riding three times in the past year (I do NOT recommend this training ‘technique’), I just wanted to get through the 17 miles.

 

I was passed about fifty times and didn’t pass a single other racer, but I was pretty happy with my effort, especially considering the monster hills.

IMG_1170

Back to transition for the run!

 

Oh – hey.  I forgot to mention that my trisuit did, in fact, fit.  I was so pleased when I tried it on last night and could squeeze into it.  Three cheers for spandex, every post-partum woman’s favorite fabric.  Winking smile

IMG_1173

Usually, I eagerly anticipate the run leg but wasn’t sure how I felt about it for this race.  I was really afraid that I would be too tired to do well; however, I came out of transition feeling confident.  The run was through a very nice residential neighborhood, and the other racers were super friendly. I found a few women to chat with, and we supported each other.  I used a walk/run method instead of trying to jog the entire distance and stayed at an even pace with a woman who ran the entire time – go figure!  Every time my watch would beep the time for each mile, I would look down and feel positively shocked that I was clocking 10:30s. 

 

When I crossed the finish line, I honestly didn’t know whether to laugh or cry.  I was 15th out of 15 women in my age group, with a time of 2:11 (my secret goal was 2:10).  I finished the swim in 19:17, the bike in 1:12, and the 5K run in 31:55.

 

I came home, ran upstairs, and scooped Henry up in my arms to give him a big, sweaty momma kiss. 

IMG_1184

I once won a race.  I’ve smashed personal records.  Today, I was last. I’ve ran faster 5Ks, and I may have sucked on the bike. But you know what? This race is the best that I’ve ever done.   In so many ways, 10.5 weeks after delivery, I feel like I won first place.

{ 137 comments }

 

  • Becca August 25, 2012, 4:05 pm

    Amazing. Just amazing! A million congrats. You deserve it. 🙂

  • Amy Q August 25, 2012, 4:07 pm

    Bravo!

  • Laura August 25, 2012, 4:09 pm

    You are an inspiration Caitlin! This post makes me feel proud to be a woman because you have such a healthy mindset on what it means to be a mother and a woman. It really doesn’t matter the place by the fact that you have a beautiful family and a healthy body, you are so blessed!

  • Cindy August 25, 2012, 4:10 pm

    Whooo hoooo! Go you! I’ve been looking forward to this recap all day and I am so glad you came out of it feeling awesome! 🙂

  • Rachel August 25, 2012, 4:11 pm

    Wow, what a motivation you are!!

  • Michelle @ A Healthy Mrs August 25, 2012, 4:16 pm

    Way to go Caitlin! Congrats on such an amazing achievement!

  • Ali August 25, 2012, 4:17 pm

    Damn, girl. Pat yourself on the back!

  • Laura @ May Your Bobbin Always Be Full August 25, 2012, 4:18 pm

    This is so motivational. Congrats on your first tri after baby!

  • Amanda August 25, 2012, 4:19 pm

    You are so freaking awesome! Great job!

  • Mary August 25, 2012, 4:22 pm

    Great job! You have done so well getting back into shape after baby! Welcome back to the tri world. I hope I can do as well as you in my race next weekend:). You never fail to inspire me!

  • GDadHTP August 25, 2012, 4:23 pm

    at least get the name of your support crew correct!

  • LizW August 25, 2012, 4:23 pm

    Awesome! You are such an inspiration. I love your attitude and your honesty. Congrats on a super-excellent accomplishment 🙂

  • Michele August 25, 2012, 4:24 pm

    You are AMAZING, Caitlin! Way to go!!!! 🙂

  • Colleen August 25, 2012, 4:28 pm

    Woot! Woot! You go girl! Time and placement doesn’t matter. You signed up, showed up, and gave all you could! That is the most important thing. . .you did! Congrats!

  • KaraHadley August 25, 2012, 4:28 pm

    Honestly, I was a little worried for you going into this race. It didn’t seem like you had much time to train and even if you could do it, I know triathlons are a very mental sport and training prepares you mentally.
    BUT you did ah-maze-ing! You finished. You had fun. You got the first big “uo oh, can I still do this” race out of the way. Now you know what you’re capable of and you can start working to beat your new PR.
    Congrats, momma.

  • Jennifer August 25, 2012, 4:30 pm

    I got so caught up on this post, I could feel myself cheering you on! At the end I literally said out loud, “I’m so proud of you!”

  • Vickie August 25, 2012, 4:33 pm

    I LOVE that you are happy with your race performance! Your last paragraph brought tears to my eyes. I had a triathlon today, too, and was feeling kinda bummed I didn’t reach my goal for time, but you reminded me that it’s just a treasure to be able to be out there to participate. And even more of a treasure to be able to come home to your kiddos safe and sound!

    • Caitlin August 25, 2012, 4:42 pm

      Pls know that you are amazing for doing a Tri regardless of your time. Your body let you do something incredible today! Thank you for your comment

  • Michelle @ Eat Move Balance August 25, 2012, 4:34 pm

    Congratulations! You should be very proud! 10.5 weeks?!? That’s an amazing come-back!

  • Miranda @ Living One Bite at a Time August 25, 2012, 4:37 pm

    Wow this was awesome to read! Congratulations!! I’ve been anxiously awaiting this recap and I’m really excited for you that you were able to do this so soon after giving birth. The fact that you were only one minute away from your goal time is so cool! I can’t even imagine having the strength to do something like this normally, never mind post-partum. You are seriously an inspiration!! 🙂

  • Robin August 25, 2012, 4:37 pm

    You rock! Congratulations!

  • Leah August 25, 2012, 4:37 pm

    Awesome and inspiring 10.5 weeks post-partum!!

  • jenny August 25, 2012, 4:39 pm

    You go Caitlin! 😀
    CONGRATSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!

  • Lauren August 25, 2012, 4:42 pm

    You’re so strong! Way to go! I loved your mindset throughout the race, thanks for sharing it with us.

  • Jen August 25, 2012, 4:54 pm

    You are truly AMAZING! Congratulations!!!

  • Brigid August 25, 2012, 5:00 pm

    Congrats Caitlin! You are truly inspirational! I admire your confidence and drive. Awesome!

    • Brigid August 27, 2012, 2:36 pm

      What? Another Brigid? I just had to say hello. 🙂

  • stephanie August 25, 2012, 5:09 pm

    What an amazing accomplishment regardless, much less 10 weeks after having a baby!!!!!! Congratulations!

  • Lauren August 25, 2012, 5:25 pm

    Good job, momma!

  • Glenneth August 25, 2012, 5:44 pm

    great job! that is an amazing accomplishment!

  • SkinnyRunner August 25, 2012, 5:45 pm

    thats awesome and inspiring that you are out there doing a TRI less than 3 months after giving birth.

  • Marci August 25, 2012, 5:56 pm

    You are a rockstar momma and that is amazing!

  • Megan August 25, 2012, 6:01 pm

    Congratulations, Caitlin! You continue to be an inspiration to so many!

  • Maggie August 25, 2012, 6:10 pm

    Great job!

  • Karlee August 25, 2012, 6:27 pm

    good for you! that is amazing!

  • Lindsay @ prettylittleparadise August 25, 2012, 6:36 pm

    awesome job!! i was thinking about you this morning and knew you’d be awesome! henry must be so proud 🙂

  • Hillary August 25, 2012, 6:37 pm

    Hell yes. Congrats. This is huge!

  • Pam August 25, 2012, 6:44 pm

    Great job Caitlin! So happy for you to have met your goal – very inspiring 🙂

  • Katie @ Peace Love & Oats August 25, 2012, 6:48 pm

    That’s awesome!!! Most people wont’ even do a tri and you did one so soon after giving birth! You definitely were the winner out there!

  • Jennifer August 25, 2012, 6:59 pm

    Congratulations Caitlin!!! You did so great, and I’m sure Henry was very proud of his mama!

  • Jodie August 25, 2012, 7:01 pm

    Congratulations Caitlin, you’re awesome and so inspiring! 🙂

  • brooke @ sweats & sweets August 25, 2012, 7:02 pm

    I think you did awesome! You did win the race! I’m sure no trophy can compare to scooping up your adorable baby at the end.

  • Allison August 25, 2012, 7:04 pm

    Congratulations Caitlin!!! You rocked it out there today!! Such an inspiration 🙂 Also, love that your Dad changed his online name to GDadHTP……..so sweet 🙂 Henry is just the cutest!

  • Kelly August 25, 2012, 7:05 pm

    You are just amazing!!! What an inspiration. Congrats on your incredible accomplishment!!

  • Sarah August 25, 2012, 7:12 pm

    So exciting! I’m running my first post-partum 5k tomorrow- I have hardly run since my son was born in April, but I miss it and figure this is a good way to get me back in the groove.

  • Chelsea August 25, 2012, 7:13 pm

    Way to go momma ;D!

  • Carolyn August 25, 2012, 7:34 pm

    I love that you said/thought the swim would by far be your strongest leg. Proof to us all that with some effort we can tackle anything – I feel like it was just yesterday I was reading about you’re conquering the fear of open water swims. Props to you!!

  • Leslie August 25, 2012, 7:37 pm

    I’m am proud of you. You’re first race is in the bag now. Way to push yourself back out there.

  • Jacquelynn August 25, 2012, 7:52 pm

    Congratulations… what an accomplishment!!! Your post brought tears to my eyes 🙂

  • Heidi August 25, 2012, 7:56 pm

    Way to bring it, Mama! You are AWESOME and make your baby proud! I also teared up reading your post because having 2 little ones myself, I know what a struggle it can be to achieve goals like this with kids to take care of. You are an inspiration to all mamas! 🙂 You go!

  • Ashley August 25, 2012, 8:03 pm

    Well done! Bravo You!!! 🙂

  • J-dog August 25, 2012, 8:04 pm

    way to go! i’m so proud i could cry…even though i don’t know you, i understand how freakin awesome it is to accomplish something like this! be proud!

  • Christina August 25, 2012, 8:22 pm

    Way to go! And solid times, I think! If you had done the tris I did this year you would’ve been much closer to MOP.

  • Emma August 25, 2012, 8:26 pm

    Congrats! You’re awesome!

  • Kristen August 25, 2012, 8:41 pm

    Everything about this is amazing. You are a badass. Period.

  • Megan August 25, 2012, 8:43 pm

    This is awesome! You’re so motivating!

  • Brooke August 25, 2012, 8:45 pm

    GREAT JOB!!!! I’m so proud of you!!!!!

  • Lori August 25, 2012, 8:47 pm

    You are just amazing! Way to go! This just brought tears to my eyes and I’ve never met you.

  • Krit August 25, 2012, 8:49 pm

    Awesome!! You are amazing! I bet Henry is very proud 🙂

  • Shannon August 25, 2012, 9:08 pm

    Go Momma!!!! That is awesome and SO good for you!

  • Brittnie (A Joy Renewed) August 25, 2012, 9:11 pm

    You are a rockstar!! Way to go! I am almost 4 months post partum and cannot fathom doing anything of the sort!

  • Jun August 25, 2012, 9:11 pm

    You’re far more than amazing.

  • Liz August 25, 2012, 9:25 pm

    Does it help that your 5K was faster than my normal 5K and I am younger, never had a baby and that doesn’t even take into account the fact that you had swam and biked before it? I’d say you did pretty freakin incredible. 🙂 You give me hope for post baby fitness!! 🙂

  • Nikki August 25, 2012, 9:27 pm

    You should be sooooo proud of yourself! Very inspirational–thank you!!

  • mary August 25, 2012, 9:29 pm

    wow good job! 17 miles is a long bike ride even for someone who has trained on the bike for awhile. Kudos
    On a side note… IDK why but I hate the word postpartum. I feel like it’s degrading when people refer to they’re body that way. I get that a women’s body did and went through an amazing thing, but when i hear it referenced and it just make me feel like someone is saying that body isn’t as good or as worthy as it was before when in fact it is more amazing.

  • Dani @ Dani, Redesigned August 25, 2012, 9:34 pm

    Lake Norman is beautiful. I’ve been with a few friends before on some boats and it’s so chill and nice. Way to freakin go, momma! You did something I absolutely wouldn’t be able to do right now, and I’ve never HAD a kid let alone just had one! <3 You deserve some much needed reward ice cream or fro-yo!

  • Claire August 25, 2012, 9:57 pm

    That is so fabulous, well done! That photo of you in the water at the start is truly beautiful.

  • luv what you do August 25, 2012, 9:58 pm

    I never swim in a straight line…it’s a great goal! I swear I end up swimming twice the distance.

    I am so proud of your tri. That is a long bike ride. You are a wonderfully inspiration to women and mom’s everywhere!

  • Katie @ Talk Less, Say More August 25, 2012, 10:07 pm

    Congrats girl! It sounds like a great race regardless. The fact that you were able to compete AND FINISH a tri after so recently having a baby, is absolutely amazing to me. Great job!

  • Abby August 25, 2012, 10:14 pm

    Amazing, amazing! I love your attitude, you know what’s important. You are an inspiration!

  • Sunny August 25, 2012, 10:45 pm

    Amazing job! Congrats! You came and you finished! I’m running my first next month and those are my only 2 goals.

  • Jen@HealthyFoodandFamily August 25, 2012, 10:56 pm

    10.5 weeks after delivery, i couldn’t even imagine running a race, you rock!!! Congrats, mama 🙂

  • Elizabeth August 25, 2012, 11:40 pm

    I love reading your blog! You are an inspiration to so many and wise beyond your years. I love your honesty and that you really have no expectations. You welcome change and experience for what it brings you and to not dwell on the “coulda, woulda shoulda”. Cheers to you!

  • Kristy August 26, 2012, 12:26 am

    I would have been thrilled to do that now… And you did it 2.5 months after having a baby! That’s wonderful! Congratulations! You should be proud of yourself!

  • Allison@commitcomplete August 26, 2012, 12:53 am

    Congrats Caitlin. You definitely need to share this story with Henry when he is older!

  • Sheryl August 26, 2012, 1:05 am

    I’m actually crying over here… I am 10 MONTHS post-partum and I still feel like I’m using my “new mom” status as an excuse to push myself. You are a freaking rock star! I’m so inspired by you!

  • Lani August 26, 2012, 1:08 am

    Caitlin,
    A million congrats! I’m so impressed and inspired! You are the bomb, mom!
    (sorry I’m crny)

    Lani

  • Reenie August 26, 2012, 2:16 am

    WOW!!! You’re fricking amazing!!! Way to Goooooo !!!

  • Elisabeth August 26, 2012, 3:08 am

    Way to go, Caitlin!!!! 😀

  • Judy August 26, 2012, 5:37 am

    You absolutely should feel lime a winner! You’re awesome!

    And hey, you’re still a faster runner thsn me, but then most people are.

    All that matters is you DID it!

  • Kelli August 26, 2012, 5:44 am

    This was motivational for me in so many ways and of course I got teary eyed at the end ! Congrats!!

  • Angie All The Way August 26, 2012, 6:08 am

    Aside from the biggest congratulations ever, I need to say thank you! It’s not the first time that you’ve demonstrated just how powerful a positive and realistic mindset can be while still pushing yourself. Well done Caitlin!

  • ash August 26, 2012, 7:07 am

    Congrats, you are awesome!!!

  • AmandaRunsNY August 26, 2012, 7:23 am

    awwww, I don’t know if I’m just emotional today or what, but this post totally just made me tear up. Congrats Momma! And you know 15 out of 15, isn’t that bad. You could also look at it as you finished in the bottom 1/15. Which given my place in the Philly Marathon, I was about 100th from last place, or in the bottom 1%. So that’s a pretty good showing if you were in a bigger race. 🙂

  • Simply Life August 26, 2012, 7:34 am

    you are such an inspiration, Caitlin! Seriously, I’m not a parent and am still intimidated to attempt a tri – and you just did it as a new parent and with such a healthy mindset! Way to go!!!

  • Chelsea @ One Healthy Munchkin August 26, 2012, 8:14 am

    Congrats Caitlin! You seriously rocked this tri! And the fact that you did it 10.5 weeks after having Henry is truly incredible. Way to go! 🙂

  • Erica August 26, 2012, 8:27 am

    You absolutely ROCK, Momma! Such a wonderful example to all us women and moms out there! Go YOU!!

    PS- Henry’s totally your biggest (little) fan;)

  • Dana August 26, 2012, 8:38 am

    Congrats! This is so inspiring

  • Amanda K. August 26, 2012, 9:02 am

    GREAT JOB!
    i ran my first postpartum race when my son was 14 weeks old (http://www.thekriegers.org/post/13455326365/running-thanksgiving-5k) and i had to nurse in the car right before. i’d been up with him the whole night before and it wasn’t my best time, but MAN i was proud.
    i like to think my son (and Henry!) will be proud of their mamas, too.

  • Anna August 26, 2012, 10:33 am

    I must agree with the others you did an amazing job and really earned to enjoy the race! Your faster times will return but it`s now that you show how strong and dedicated you are!

  • Jennifer August 26, 2012, 10:40 am

    Way to go, Caitlin!!!! You did so great, and you have so much to be proud of! I didn’t just have a baby and I couldn’t do any of that, much less all of that! You rock, girl! Congratulations and thanks as ever for sharing. You are SUCH an inspiration!

  • Kelly August 26, 2012, 10:47 am

    Congrats Caitlin! You did great! Happy for you. 🙂

  • Valerie August 26, 2012, 10:53 am

    simply inspiring:)

  • jennyv August 26, 2012, 10:55 am

    AWESOME! I don’t comment often, but I am thoroughly impressed. I have run 1/2s and a full marathon but have never attempted a triathalon — and I also do not have any children, let alone a new baby! I love seeing mamas out there running and doing things for themselves. Stand tall today (and get a massage from the hubby!)

  • Kathryn August 26, 2012, 11:21 am

    You did amazing!!!!

  • dani August 26, 2012, 12:48 pm

    you are so inspiring! i’m pregnant right now and i set a goal to run my 3rd marathon in the fall of next year (i’m due in late february). i’ve been thinking lately that there’s no way that is going to happen, but you doing a triathlon so soon after giving birth gives me hope that i’ll be able to accomplish my goal. you go girl!!

  • Emily @ Relishments August 26, 2012, 1:17 pm

    Go you! I’m so impressed with people who do triathlons…nevermind so recently after having a baby! Congrats!

  • Amber K August 26, 2012, 1:19 pm

    Amazing Caitlin. Simply awesome. And you beat everyone sitting at home. 🙂

  • Kate August 26, 2012, 1:20 pm

    You rock!!! I felt the same way after completing my first race as a mom (it was only a 10k, not a tri — you are awesome!). Keep up the great work!

  • Ashley August 26, 2012, 2:44 pm

    Great race Caitlin! You did an amazing job. And for the record, my hormonal 14.5 week pregnant self is tearing up at your last paragraph. It is perfectly motivating and inspiring and I hope that post baby I can feel some of that. Thank you!

  • Beks August 26, 2012, 3:06 pm

    Congratulations on your hard work!

  • Kristen August 26, 2012, 3:07 pm

    Congratulations Caitlin – I’m glad you had fun and had a great race experience!

  • jen August 26, 2012, 4:56 pm

    inspiring inspiring inspiring! congratulations and thank you for helping me to get off MY butt when i dont feel like it!!

  • Kelly August 26, 2012, 6:32 pm

    That last picture of you holding Henry needs to be framed. It is gorgeous!

  • Shannon August 26, 2012, 7:19 pm

    You are amazing. You inspire me. Congratulations!

  • Shauna@Pleasure, not Punishment August 26, 2012, 7:29 pm

    Congratulations! Awesome!!

  • Amber @ Busy, Bold, Blessed August 26, 2012, 8:34 pm

    Congrats! You ROCK!!!!

  • Marcia August 26, 2012, 8:52 pm

    Hey, that’s awesome! I’m a first time visitor to your blog, and in fact I just went down to watch our triathlon today. I did the last two years, 2010, 2011. Didn’t quite time it right with having a baby in July this year. Only 10 lbsheavier? You are doing great.

    I laughed reading about the pumping. You are dedicated. I also have an oversupply, and I only exercise after pumping and I simply cannot run at all while nursing. I’ve never tried with two bras though. 2 hr tri is impressive. Ours are sprints, they are about an hour.

  • Hilary August 26, 2012, 9:13 pm

    Girl… I almost cried reading that last bit from you. You’re right, you SHOULD feel like you won a race. (I sometimes wish we flip flopped the mentality for kids sports- where EVERYONE gets a trophy and there are no winners/ losers- for adults instead.) Congratulations.

  • Alexandra August 26, 2012, 9:23 pm

    I got teary eyed reading the end of this post! Congratulations. Your postpartum training, goal setting, motivation to get back into shape and most importantly your POSITIVE ATTITUDE are amazing. You are an inspiration to all women.

  • Janelle August 26, 2012, 10:15 pm

    I seriously can’t ever imagine doing this… let alone so quickly after having a baby! But, your post nearly brought me to tears. You have one of the best spirits/attitudes I’ve ever encountered.

  • kristen @ livinlifeinlouie August 26, 2012, 11:07 pm

    what an amazing accomplishment!!!!! you look like a pro in your pictures!! henry and the hubby have to be very proud of you!

  • victoria August 26, 2012, 11:32 pm

    Way to go!!! I’m so glad for you that the event went well and you were pleased! Yahoo!!

  • Amanda August 27, 2012, 4:43 am

    That’s fantastic. So happy for you!

  • Steffanie August 27, 2012, 7:13 am

    Caitlin, this post actually brought tears to my eyes. You are such an AMAZING WOMAN! You keep it real and are such a wonderful role model. Congrats on doing so well!

  • char eats greens August 27, 2012, 9:11 am

    Way to go!! Serious props to ya. I couldn’t imagine doing this in general, let alone 10 weeks after giving birth. You rock girl!!

  • Rebecca August 27, 2012, 9:16 am

    What a beautiful post – you are an inspiration in so many ways!

  • Sarah @ Celiac in the City August 27, 2012, 9:25 am

    YOU.ARE.A.ROCKSTAR!!! This post seriously brought tears to my eyes — what an accomplishment… you should be SO proud of yourself. (I bet Henry sure is!)

    You inspire me. You brought sunshine to my day.

    Happy Monday!!!

  • Christin August 27, 2012, 10:08 am

    You are AWESOME, Caitlin!! A role model in so many ways. 🙂 There aren’t many blogs that offer a healthy boost for your body and your spirit – I just love reading and I feel like I know you. Great job!!!

    And just wait until Henry is older and you can tell him that you did a tri just 10.5 weeks after birthing him. Kick ass!!

  • beth August 27, 2012, 10:41 am

    Congrats! You are amazing!

  • Samantha Angela August 27, 2012, 11:23 am

    Congrats on the triathalon!

  • Lisa August 27, 2012, 11:28 am

    You are such a GREAT role model!!! Congrats on your first triathlon post-partum!!!!Fantasic job!!!!!

  • Sara August 27, 2012, 11:29 am

    I don’t *really* know you other than via reading your blog, so this sounds weird, but I just wanted to pop by and say how proud I am of you! Sounds corny, but really! I think you went in with the right attitude and didn’t pressure yourself or feel bad about lost fitness, etc. And as a result, I’d say you’re in a fantastic place post-baby fitness-wise! I know so many people that take much longer than 10.5 weeks to “get back on the horse” and I think you have such a wise approach! I’ll try and remember that in the future when I’m a mama!

  • Amy August 27, 2012, 11:46 am

    I’m catching up on my weekend reading….congrats on a great first race back!!! I’m currently pregnant with my first child, and you are an inspiration.

  • Kendra @ My Full-Thyme Life August 27, 2012, 1:05 pm

    Way to go, Caitlin!! Henry must be so proud of you! Or… at least he will be when he reads this someday. 😉 I seriously welled up a bit reading the post. The inspiration that you share with us is such a gift. Thank you!

  • Bobbie August 27, 2012, 2:44 pm

    Awesome job Caitlin! Just that fact that you signed up and did it is amazing! you could have had so many excuses for not doing it yet you pushed yourself and I’m sure will always be glad you did. Biggest thing is, you now have one under the belt…let the madness begin ;0)

  • Carissa August 27, 2012, 5:15 pm

    Three cheers for you! I think the intimidation factor is nearly the hardest one, and the the fact that you just blew it out of the water and did this race anyway? Well, you’re absolutely a winner in my book!

  • hilary August 27, 2012, 6:04 pm

    You are incredible! you truly are just AMAZING!!

  • Corrie Anne August 28, 2012, 1:04 am

    YES!! I had to come back and read this!! CONGRATS!! So awesome and inspiring.

  • Mary August 28, 2012, 6:18 am

    You go, Sister! I’m proud of you for appreciating your performance and embracing it, rather than being upset you came in last! You are one strong momma and Henry doesn’t know it yet, but will come to realize it then brag about it to his friends and say “My mommy is a triathlete” 🙂

  • Katie August 28, 2012, 10:48 am

    Massively inspiring. Way to go!!!

  • K @ Finding a skinnier me August 28, 2012, 3:34 pm

    Inspirational!

  • Alett September 3, 2012, 10:06 am

    I am so darn proud of you! I cannot think of many people that would attempt a triathlon so soon after giving birth -> agreed! Inspirational 🙂

  • Johanna September 4, 2012, 5:10 am

    You definitely won 1st place!!! Amazing Momma!

  • Soul Seeker Hack January 27, 2015, 7:18 pm

    It’s very simple to find out any matter on net as compared to books,
    as I found this piece of writing at this site.

Previous post:

Next post:

Healthy Tipping Point