What is the hardest part?
I am asked this a lot when I speak to people about this project.
What shocks people is my reply…
Context
Before I come to that, I would like to give some context. Training and completing these challenges are very much part of who I am. I love the process, planning, and having the responsibility.
“This is only going to happen if I do the work.”
It is a powerful and so rewarding statement, and one I suggest more people live by. Responsibility is powerful, and it creates trust not with others, but with myself. That starts by doing what you say you will.
The Hardest Part
Back to the question, what is the hardest part, it’s not the swim, bike, or run. It’s not the management of time being a firefighter, a performance coach to others, and training hours per week.
The hardest part is getting people to believe and be a part of this project.
I know it’s not the biggest challenge, and it isn’t a big regular event (yet) like MDS, Talisker, for example. I’m building something bold from scratch
Building a team is hard
Getting partners is hard
Trying to create some collaboration is hard
Being rejected or ignored is hard
This is the hidden work people do not see when creating a solo project like this.
Conversations
Let’s be clear, though, you do connect with many inspiring and encouraging people. David @ https://www.bybv.co.uk/ has been an incredible help and support whilst gaining momentum with the TRI-M campaign.
And I recently had a conversation with Damian Browne, a well-known adventurer who has inspired me since his solo Atlantic row. He has been amazing in supporting me and sharing this challenge, and I said to him
“My biggest challenge is getting exposure, support, and even sponsors. Which, to be clear, I don't need because it's getting done regardless, but with that, it will support the cause and the why so much more.”
That statement is true. It is getting done regardless, and that may consume me financially, mentally, and physically. That’s an expense I accept for creating this legacy, one that carries powerful meaning.
If you are a business or a friend, I strongly believe this is an opportunity to be part of that legacy, too, and maybe with you we can make it so much bigger!
Closing sentence
Trust me when I say I’d do challenges that seem physically and mentally impossible or to testing to create a lasting footprint of human ability with the right support. It’s what excites me the most - What are we capable of?….
Thank you
Massive thanks to those who have already joined the 50 club
Also, the current partners and sponsors who believe in this project
HUUB - Swim Sponsor
Suunto - Timing Sponsor
Vankru - Bike Fit
Trailskin - Antichave products
HEO - Systems
BYBV - Sponsor Support
DG Performance Coaching - Training
