Article Contributed on: 5/2/2008 11:53:24 AM
What type of women is physically strong enough, and can endure a triathlon close to 16 hours of intense movement? The idea of being in continual motion for close to the expired time of 17 hours, is absurd for some, and an addictive high for others, including a local Highlands Ranch, stay at home mom, Kami Holt. Kami doesn't clown around when it comes to triathlons. It takes a lot to juggle part-time teaching at a local college, family life, and volunteering, to make the time for extensive training, even when our Colorado weather is uncooperative. Kami recently participated in the 2008 Arizona Ironman. While it snowed in Highlands Ranch, she strived to be her best in 98 degree dry heat during the running portion of the triathlon. Swimming 2.4 miles in the warm Tempe Town Lake, biking 112 grueling miles on burning blacktop, and running an exuberating 26.2 stretch on Arizona State University campus is quite the accomplishment. Crossing the finish line with her personal record time of 15 hours, 59 minutes, Kami felt a release of emotions, crying on her husbands shoulder. Not only from sheer exhaustion, she claims, but also a sense of completing a race she had trained many months prior. Fortunately for Kami, she has the best audience, her supportive husband, a local orthodontist, and triathlete, Gary, and two adorable girls, six year old Emma, and 2 year old Caroline. It takes a lot to not only trian the body, but also the mind for the competition. There has been an increase in athletes in triathlons over the last few years.The challenge of three sports in one keeps it interesting. Nutrition is an integral part of fueling the body to make sure that it can endure the events, in addition, recovering after the race. Kami says that she trains smart, and eats even smarter, although sometimes enjoying some salt and vinegar potato chips during a long workout. Kami recommends Route 105 from Sedalia to Palmer Lake, and Deer Creek to Hi-Grade for cycling, and running the scenic Platte River Trail. For Kami, the triathlons and training in general heals and cleanses her heart, and her mind. A triathlon can be done by anyone, and Kami suggests that you go for it, at least one time in your life. Written by: Marla S. Roth-Fisch