After racing at the 70.3 World Championships I had signed up to race in the inaugural Niagara Falls Barrelman triathlon. It was a very interesting experience to say the least. After finishing the World Champs my family and I spent a week exploring western Canada. It was fantastic. Unfortunately a few days out from the race I became very ill with a flu virus (not uncommon in athletes after pushing their bodies so hard). I spent 3 days in bed and questioned whether I could race at all. After visiting the chemist and resting I managed to make the start line. Somewhat apprehensive would be an understatement.
The race went really well to be honest until halfway through the run leg. 10km into the run my legs and body just said "NO". I almost fainted and realized I needed to play it smart. So as much as a hated it I needed to walk/run to get myself to the finish line. It is probably the hardest race I have ever done in regards to how my body felt. However it is an amazing race and running past the Niagara Falls twice during the run is just awesome. I managed to finish the race and now can call myself a "Barrelman". I totally recommend if you get the chance to race this event. It's a fun race and the management, staff and volunteers are just brilliant.