Your First 70.3: It’s Supposed to Feel SPECIAL

There’s something unforgettable about your first 70.3. It’s your entry into the world of middle-course triathlon — a milestone that feels massive, exciting, and a little intimidating all at once.

Chances are, you’ll make mistakes. Probably a lot of them. And that’s exactly the point. This race isn’t about being perfect — it’s about showing up, going long, and learning what this sport is all about. If anything, think of it as a long, hard training day where the real win is experience.

Performance Can Wait

Many people line up at their first 70.3 wanting to do well. And some will — especially those with a strong background in endurance sports. But most are stepping into unfamiliar territory, and that’s where the magic happens. You’ll cross the finish line a different person than the one who started. That shift — not the result — is what sticks.

What’s interesting is that, despite the suffering, the heat (or the cold rain like my first :P ), the fatigue, and the mistakes , most people finish their first 70.3 and almost immediately start thinking about what’s next. That post-race moment — standing there with your finisher medal, wrecked and proud — is where you realize whether or not you want to pursue this further.

For many, the discipline and lifestyle that come with 70.3 training have already created something meaningful. Better body awareness. A clearer mind. A structured routine. And whether you go shorter, longer, or stay in this distance, or even lean to running or cycling, it’s all a win. You’ve built something no matter what.

Managing the Nerves

Because it’s your first, your nerves will be through the roof. That’s normal. What’s also normal is the urge to do more — the infamous panic training. Last-minute volume spikes, trying five different gels, buying new gear, squeezing in “just one more long ride or a superhero threshold run workout.” please DONT

The truth: trying to cram everything in last-minute will steal from the experience. Trust that the training you’ve done — especially if you’ve been consistent 80% of the time or more , it was enough. You’ll get way more out of race day by arriving rested, grounded, and mentally present than by trying to out-train your doubts.

Every race I line up for, I always feel like I’m not ready enough. I’ve come to realize — maybe you never truly feel ready. It doesn’t get easier; you just get faster. And it still hurts just as much.

Final Thoughts

Your first 70.3 is more than a race — it’s an experience and it opens up a new level of self-awareness, commitment, and resilience. And it’s special because it’s yours. No matter how it goes, you’ll never forget it.

So embrace it. Feel everything. Learn. Make mistakes. And when you cross that finish line, don’t be surprised if you already want to sign up for the next one, cause you will, ITS A TRAP