There is something special about participating in a triathlon, and the Key West Triathlon, organized by Integrity Multisport™, was no exception. From the moment I picked up my race packet to the unexpected turn of events on race day, this event will forever be etched in my memory.
Almost a year before the race, I asked my brother, Ed, my sister-in-law, Andrea, and my husband,Brian to join me in Key West. “It will be like a mini vacation,” I told them. They agreed and we booked an AirBnB close to the race site.
The Preparation
We arrived in Key West on Friday. Saturday morning, we headed over to the race site to pick up my number.
The process of picking up the race packet was quick and easy. I was assigned a number close to the bike-in/bike-out area, right up front – a great start to the event. After collecting my packet, my sister-in-law Andrea and I went to drop off my bike, which had suffered a bit during the plane ride from New York.
Thanks to Eaton Bikes, we managed to get it fixed and race-ready. Although it was very pricey for just a charge, I was grateful they had my charger on hand.
Early on race day, Andrea drove me to the transition area. The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as I set up my gear and chatted with fellow triathletes. Among them were my friends Nancy and Roy Lester, with Roy also participating in the race. It was wonderful to see familiar faces.
The Race
As the race began, I was excited about the swim despite rumors of a rough exit due to limited ladders. The announcers even suggested changing to a duathlon if one didn’t feel comfortable with the deep water. But I was unfazed and eager to begin.
While waiting for my wave to start, I saw Ed and Andrea holding a sign cheering me on, which put a big smile on my face. My husband Brian had decided to sleep in, but I knew he was there in spirit.
The Unexpected Turn
The swim went smoothly. It actually went great. I was feeling strong and speedy. After that, I quickly transitioned to the bike stage. I was doing well, making good time despite the headwind. But then, as I made a turn back towards the College of the Florida Keys, the event site, disaster struck.
I went over something and was thrown off my bike, hitting my head hard. Despite the pain, I got back on my bike only to fall again, hitting my head for the second time. My tire was blown. I must have rode over something that popped the tire.
The medic team arrived promptly and after a quick assessment, they recommended I be taken to the ER. The ambulance ride, the immediate care, and even the coincidental name match with one of the medics, added to the surreal experience. Thankfully, the CAT scan came back clear, but I was left with a concussion and several bruises.
The Aftermath
The Integrity Multisport staff were incredible throughout the ordeal. They informed Ed and Andrea about the accident, helped them collect my belongings, and generally provided excellent support.
While this race didn’t end as I had planned, I’m grateful for the medical team’s quick response and the support from the Integrity Multisport staff. I may not have crossed the finish line this time, but I’ll certainly remember the Key West Triathlon as an event that tested not just my physical strength, but my resilience too.
After thinking about the race and the people I met there, I just want to say that I absolutely love the triathlon community. You all are such amazing people and I am grateful to have you in my life!