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May is a big month here at DelMoSports.
May is a big month here at DelMoSports. We, like you, are gearing up for one of the most unique triathlons in the world, the 7th Annual Escape the Cape Triathlon and Open Water Classic Presented by Inspira Health. Now, if you're not familiar with "ETC," what makes this event so special is our start; a 12-foot leap off the Cape May-Lewes Ferry into the Delaware Bay. We're proud to be mentioned in the same category of the Norseman and Escape From Alcatraz (the OG of boat triathlons). But, we're not here to boast about this event, we're here to define who is jumping off the boat: YOU.
YOU will fall into one of three categories.
The Amazing 80
Of the 2,000 athletes racing at Escape the Cape, 1,600 of you are here for a good time. You thoroughly enjoy the camaraderie of the other athletes, volunteers, and spectators. Yes, racing is great, but the social gathering is what it's all about. You plan the post-race happy hour before planning travel arrangements for the trip. The group picture before the race is more important than the finisher pic sent through email. And you are what makes triathlon amazing to be a part of. I salute you, for I neglected this part of racing for a long time and have only just begun to tap into racing with a smile.
The Intense 10
Guilty as charged. I raced like this for the better part of my career (if that's what you can call it). You know who you are... 10% of you (or 200) are there to win. You relish the opportunity to be side-by-side with your opponent. You look for areas to attack. You cannot be bothered before the race and shun social interaction because you are focusing on performance. THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH THIS. We can see your seriousness and we try to leave you alone. Your day has been planned WELL IN ADVANCE. If we look in your transition bag, there will inevitably be a few recovery drinks on ice. You are shaved down, lubed up, and your transition space is METICULOUS. You are a COMPETITOR looking to podium and your 1000-yard stare lets us all know. We aspire to be like you at times, but we also hope you're enjoying yourselves too. We appreciate the intensity you bring to the sport because you allow us to learn what is truly possible through hard work and dedication. The Amazing 80 can clearly out-party you though, and that's ok.
The Chosen Ones
This group is special. The Chosen Ones have decided to CHANGE THEIR LIVES. They are overcoming insurmountable odds. Some of them are leaving a job they have done for 20 years. Some are ending a poisonous relationship. Some are celebrating the anniversary of beating a disease. Some have simply decided to redefine themselves in terms of self-image... from here on out they will be known as an athlete. These people are finally taking control of their destiny. They want to show their children what real dedication looks like. They want to prove to themselves that years of abuse, whether self-inflicted or tolerated, can be STOPPED and a new person can be born stronger, smarter, and more assertive than ever before. They are remarkable.
These are the types of people you will meet on the boat. Each group affects to rest. We need them all. We all fall into one of these three at some point in our lives, but I assure you come June 2 in North Cape May, NJ you will rub shoulders, knowingly or unknowingly, with someone who has a remarkable story to tell, a killer party to go to, and a log book of full of completed workouts that make our eyes pop. Each group is special. Each group has had to battle their own demons. Each group deserves the right to race their race.
The work is done my friends. Live in your moment. When it's your turn to take the leap, leave all of your problems on the boat and jump into the person you always knew you could/would/ and will be.
Love, DelMo
