A Day of Thanks

Initially, I was not going to let a national holiday influence the topic of my column but then I reconsidered. As much as I don’t need the government setting aside a special day to make me give thanks, I thought, “we can all never give enough thanks.”

As athletes (front of the pack to back of the back), we all have a lot to be thankful for. We would not be able to do what we do without the sacrifices that our families have to make. Putting up with our absences due to training, our moods, nutritional habits, spending weekends at races, and so much more.

After sitting out last year due to injury, I gained an appreciation for simply being healthy and having the ability to be active. It was very tough watching everyone swim, bike and run, but even more than that I missed hanging out and chatting with everyone at the races, and with my training buddies. I took full advantage of that this year.

I certainly hope that you regularly thank all of those special people in your life, and then do it again today. Don’t take them for granted. A little thanks and appreciation goes a long way.

Thanks to this column I have the chance to do acknowledge individuals publicly and I will jump at the opportunity to do so now.

This past triathlon/duathlon season was probably my most successful. I came back from an Achilles tendon rupture to have my fastest Ironman race, my first overall win, and a few podium finishes. In addition, I get to produce newsletters and podcasts for John Salt and MultiSport Canada – the organizers behind the race series I absolutely love, and getting the chance to work for Ironman.com at Ironman Wisconsin and for Triathlon Magazine Canada (thanks you Kevin Mackinnon).

All of this would not be possible without the support of a team of people:

Family & Friends – especially my wife (no longer a jinx), and my father-in-law (who came down to Lake Placid to watch me race)

Equipment Sponsors/Supporters – Running Free, Mizuno, Litespeed, Acid Zapper

My physiotherapist Tony at Physiobility

My massage therapist – Angela Lloyd at Running Free Markham

The athletes I coach

My co-workers and friends who supported my fundraising drive for the Alzheimer’s Society of Canada (http://my.e2rm.com/personalPage.aspx?SID=2254334)

And of course the greatest photographer, chef, and all-round nicest guy I know, Mike Cheliak. Thanks for providing me this soapbox in which to spout off my thoughts and for all your wicked photos you took this season. Knowing the way you cook, I sure wish I were at your place today for an unforgettable Thanksgiving feast.

To all HSBC Triathlon Series racers, I hope to see you at the Year End Awards Day. I had an awesome time racing with you, and meeting a lot of new people. Have a great off-season, and Happy Thanksgiving to you all!

By the way, perfectly suited to this day of thanks, is a great book by Mary Jo Leddy called “Radical Gratitude.” Have a great week!

Roger