CSSC's Alan Lewis gives an insight in to his fantastic experience in the Olympic Distance Triathlon, at the Beijing World Championships
1500 metre swim, 40k Bike (25.2 mile),10k Run (6.2 mile)
After leaving London Heathrow on a BA flight with the rest of the GB Team including past and present Olympic stars I knew the trip had started. Initially this was a little overwhelming being around so many established names but I soon realised this could be a once in a lifetime chance so I decided to relax and enjoy the experience.
From the moment we landed in China the local authorities and local people made us feel 100% welcome. The hotel, the security, event venue and hospitality was all of the highest standard and we even got asked to sign autographs and pose for pictures which made me laugh - surely they had made a mistake thinking I was someone else?!?
After settling in I went about the business of doing the course familiarisation, I knew this was key to getting a good result so I swam in the course reservoir with a water temperature of 25 degrees (slightly warmer than the local mere) and I rode the bike course twice taking in as much as could trying to remember each corner so I could maximise my speed. I also ran 'the run leg' of the course which was challenging with two good hills. Overall the course was undulating on both the bike and the run and warm in the swim but I was confident of performing well on the day if I could recover from jet lag quickly.
After a busy few days of registration, opening ceremony, team briefings and team photo's race day was fast approaching, the longer we stayed in China the more my confidence grew.
Race day was an early start, 4am for breakfast - rice and toast my pre race fuel, which had been rehearsed on the days leading up to the race.
The swim felt good but I knew my time wasn't fast so going into transition I knew I had to hit the pedals to make time up, I was the 6th fastest person on the bike which clawed back some much needed time going into the run. The run was hard going as the heat was now intense but I managed to dig deep and finish the 11th fastest on the run. At the finish line my feelings were amazing and couldn't quite believe where I was, seeing all the spectators in the huge grandstand. To find out that I had finished 11th in the race was a really great feeling, I was also really happy to be the 2nd GB athlete home out of our very strong team of 10.
After the race it was back to the hotel to pack my bike and gear up and get ready for the flight home.
Since the race I've had time to reflect on the great experience of Beijing and moving forward my aim is to regain my place in the GB Team. I hope to have a solid 12 months training in preparation for next year's world championships where I believe with the right support, help and assistance I can podium.
The World Championship's were only achievable because of your support and help and I can't thank you enough for everything - thanks for the sponsorship and thanks for believing in me.
Thanks again
Alan Lewis
Alanlewis01@hotmail.com
Tel 075950 31333
Twitter alanlewis01
