This past Wednesday, August 11, at Akron General North, I got to hold an Olympic Gold Medal won by Shelia Taormina. She was the guest speaker kicking off Akron General's Multisport Festival season.
Shelia is the only woman to compete in three different sports in different Olympiads...something everyone told her couldn't be done.
"Break paradigms" Shelia encouraged the audience. "Don't falsely believe something that isn't true. Remember, people used to think the world was flat."
Dream big and enjoy the process your dreams and goals take you through. Be "process-oriented". Those days when dreams and goals are realized are amazing, but don't forget to find "joy in the process".
When I asked her how she was able to get up at 5:00am and jump in a cold pool nearly everyday in preparation for the Olympics while working a full-time job she said it was finding joy in the present moment and reminding herself that she was privileged to wake up and be able to go swim. "Everyday is a gift, don't waste it."
Shelia's advice is priceless for people preparing for the Akron General Multisport Triathlons and Duathlons September 18 & 19 put on by HFP Racing. Below is a photo of myself, Shannon of HFP Racing, Olympian Shelia Taormina, and photographer Daniel Smith. (Shannon is wearing Shelia's medal per her request)
If you are a multisport athlete (triathlete, duathlete, etc.) or thinking of becoming a multisport athlete you need to try a HFP Race! Fun, educational, and well-organized, HFP Races are always a great experience!Keep Training! (and as Shelia recommends, find joy in the process!)
Coach Amanda Kephart
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