SARA'S Spin
Sara McLarty is an elite U.S. triathlete. Learn more about Sara at
www.usantc.com or
www.saramclarty.com
When I was a youth triathlete, my favorite event was the Cypress Gardens Triathlon in Florida. The race was backward; it started with the run and finished with the swim. The starting line was in the center of a spiral parking lot and when the huge cannon was fired, all the competitors had to run in expanding circles for the first half-mile.
Triathlon is a growing sport, and in many areas of the country, there are a lot of races from which you can choose. When you sit down with your parents and coach to plan your season, how do you decide what races to do?
Talk with your friends and teammates and ask what their favorite races are. Ask them what makes it their favorite race. Look at the websites of the events and read about the course, the post-race party, the goodie bags and other details of the event. Sometimes participants of the race are even able to get a discount to local attractions or parks.
With a little bit of research, your 2011 race season can be the best one yet. You can find a favorite event to return to each year and create memories that will last a lifetime!
GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP
Win or Lose
Hunter's Hints
Hunter Kemper is a three-time Olympian. Visit his website at
www.hunterkemper.com.
I was raised in a family that loved sports. When I was young I played basketball, baseball, soccer, tennis, swimming, and yes, I also competed in triathlons. From the very beginning, my parents taught me that good sportsmanship was more important than the outcome of the game or race. The way you act on the field of play demonstrates your character and says a lot about who you are as a person.
Here are some things to remember as you demonstrate good sportsmanship:
1. Be positive. It’s important to realize that words mean a lot. When you are competing against another team or athlete, don’t trash talk. Remember the old saying, “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.”
2. Winning isn’t everything. I was born a competitor and I have always loved to win; however, at an early age I realized that there is only one winner at the end of a competition. During my career I’ve lost more races than I’ve won. It’s during the losing moments that true character shines through.
3. Play fair. There are rules and referees for a reason. Never cheat in order to win. Remember: “winners never cheat and cheaters never win!”
4. Be an example. Your attitude during competition not only affects the way others look at you, but also the team you represent. I love my country and I am very proud to wear USA across my chest when I race. As I travel around the world, people notice the way that I act. Represent not only yourself with dignity but also your team.
5. Sports are fun. Never be the sore loser who blames everyone else for his or her loss. Never be the bad winner who gloats and revels in victory over someone else’s defeat. Sports are supposed to be fun. “It’s not about whether you win or lose, but how you play the game.”
How can you display good sportsmanship in your next competition? Share some of your ideas with your family and have them hold you accountable. Always be a good sport; you never know who’s watching!
May all your transitions be fast and smooth!
Want your profile in the magazine?
Answer the questions in the profiles you see on page 3 and email your answers (and a close-up picture) to
communications@usatriathlon.org with “youth profile” in the subject line.
USAT Youth 2
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