Triathlons are endurance events, combining swimming, cycling and running. If you're new to triathlons, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. The annual Brett/Robinson Alabama Coastal Triathlon offers a Tri-It-On beginner distance for competitors to dip their toes in individually or as a relay team.
Presenting sponsor Brett/Robinson Vacations is taking things up a notch to build a team and train for a Tri-It-On relay team, and another sports and events sponsor gives his perspective on racing in this event over the years. Read on for practical training tips and fun anecdotes to get started.
1. Set #Goals & Plan
Goal setting is the first step to success and creating a training plan is essential. Setting goals will help you stay the course and pairing those goals with an actionable plan will help develop a firm foundation. Great resources are available through USA Triathlon to create a personalized plan, including endurance, interval and strength training.
For Brett/Robinson's relay team – Bill Brett, president and CEO (swim); Billy Widner, chief marketing officer (bike); and Bryant Loy, director of revenue (run) – it's all about the motivation and staying the course.
"All three of us are newcomers, having started our training just two weeks ago, so we'll have less than a month to prepare," said Widner. "We’re definitely not over-training! Committing to this event has motivated us to make some healthier choices in our diets and prioritize fitness, which can be easy to overlook when life gets busy."
2. Tinker with Technique
Prevent injuries and improve your performance by working on your technique. Practice, practice, practice and consider taking swimming, cycling and running lessons to learn and develop proper form.
Speaking of tinkering with technique, Widner notes: "Our President and CEO Bill Brett spent several years in Marine Corps reconnaissance, so swimming has always been a significant part of his life. This year, Bill decided to put his swimming skills to good use by leading a team in the event we sponsor."
Ken Kichler, chief financial officer at restaurant sponsor Tacky Jacks, has participated in this race since its inception and talks about his road to recovery from injury.
"I was actually on the initial team that started the race. Over the years, I have raced the long course, sprint, long relay, short relay and aqua bike. In 2020, an ankle injury stopped from running and biking, so I filled the role of announcing the race in 2021 and 2022. In 2022, I had an ankle replacement, allowing me to cycle again. The relay affords me the opportunity to participate in the bike portion, and this year I am racing with a friend who is swimming and running with me cycling."
3. Eat Right, Hydrate & Rest
Proper nutrition and hydration are critical for triathletes (and, to be honest, anyone!). Implementing a balanced diet, consistent hydration and rest and recovery to your regimen will make an impactful long-term difference in your training and competition. It's vital to go into the race rested and ready to swim, bike and run to the finish line!
4. Join the Club!
Joining a triathlon club is an ideal way to meet fellow triathletes and foster accountability to keep you on track, cheer you on and pay it forward. These groups will also have the scoop on the proper gear to purchase to make sure you are on your A-game for the big day.
Camaraderie is key for companies like Brett/Robinson on and off the course. According to Widner, The vacation rental business was founded by two families and has grown into a company known for its strong relationships with property owners, guests and team members.
"Great teams become even closer by overcoming challenges together," said Widner. "For the three of us, this event has already given us some wonderful opportunities to share our progress and our struggles, including a humorous realization of our current fitness levels. For the rest of our team, there have been plenty of chances to laugh with (or perhaps at) us, and we hope a few are inspired to take on a new challenge of their own. Plus, it’s a fun excuse to wear lycra...who could resist that?"
Kichler echoes the teamwork angle and has "raced with co-workers, and we have had multiple teams compete in this race. Great camaraderie and fun outside the workspace build team spirit."
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Don't forget, preparing for a triathlon takes time and dedication, just like any other endurance sport. Practice patience and enjoy the journey. From training to nutrition, consistency is key. And along Alabama's Beaches, the Brett/Robinson Alabama Coastal Triathlon celebrates fun, family and fitness.
Brett/Robinson actively supports several initiatives to boost sports tourism in the area, and we are proud to be the title sponsor of the Brett/Robinson Alabama Coastal Triathlon," said Widner. "This event celebrates two things we hold dear: the beautiful Alabama coast, with its pristine sandy beaches, emerald waters and iconic buildings where families create lasting memories, and the athletes themselves, who push beyond their comfort zones. These athletes are committed to making consistent sacrifices, facing and overcoming adversity, and celebrating progress while striving for greatness. At Brett/Robinson, we honor and embrace that mindset and way of life."