Love the spirit and drive of this week’s spotlight ambassador, Laura Burnett. She’s fun and awesome and loves to run in the snow, apparently. 🙂
Laura Burnett
City/State: Davison, Michigan
Age Group: 40-44
Biggest Inspiration: First my son, who gives me unconditional love and support. I’m so proud of the young man he has become and he will always be my strength. He encourages me regardless and always gives me the “great job mom” & “proud of you”. Second, I’m inspired by Swim Bike Mom as I’ve been following her blog for a few years. It’s refreshing to know that there are other women who have the same struggles. The support and stories are wonderful and I love to consume my life with the accomplishments of others.
Scary 2015 Goal: Making the transition of training for Sprints & Olympic Distance to 70.3 and the simple fact that our fearless leader & team have me now thinking 140.6………… that scares me!
How Triathlon Changed Me: In 2002 I found myself a divorced, unemployed mom, looking for some direction in life. During those first few years, I struggled with everything. I finally came to the realization that everything happens for a reason and began regaining confidence in myself. It was during this time my dear friend since college encouraged me to start running. This was such a challenge because I could barely run one mile, but I did it and eventually worked myself up to running 5K’s, 10K’s, 10miles, ½ marathons and even a full marathon.
I had been running for about 10 years when another friend or “Fran” as she calls herself encouraged me to register for my first sprint tri. As a burned out runner I figured that this might be a welcome change. In those years running, I was never touched so much by the stories and accomplishments as I have been in the world of multi-sport.
This is now my third year in the sport, and I have met so many amazing people. I have gained many lifelong friends that truly love the sport with me. It’s awesome to have a support group of face book friends that you have never met, to those who train alongside you. This is a very humble sport that I have a true respect. The world of triathlon has given me the opportunity to grow, learn, accomplish & accept failure. There are so many inspirational stories that it is truly life changing. I love meeting people during a race, love the conversations in transition before & after races & the excitement on the courses.
~I will forever be thankful for the two amazing women who introduced me to running & triathlons~
Favorite Piece of Gear: My Mizunos, the only shoe I run in and can’t live without.
I Race For: I race for myself, for personal growth and to accomplish goals I never thought possible in hope that I can encourage others along my journey.
How I Pay It Forward: I remind myself daily and every race that kind words make a world of difference. A simple “you’re doing great” “you got this” or “you’re awesome” can change an attitude and motivate those around you. Recently, it came to my attention how unappreciated staff of a race organization felt by the athletes that participate. I’ve made it a goal not just to cheer and encourage fellow athletes, but also thank all those on the side lines and behind the scenes that make multi-sport events happen!
What Else You Should Know About Me: I have an amazing boyfriend who loves me and accepts my crazy life of racing. I have two wonderful parents who support me, even when they think I’ve completely lost my mind. I graduated in December from Central Michigan University in December, with a MSA in General Administration.
One of my most memorable moments in the sport was in 2013. I raced on Hilton Head Island in my first ocean swim triathlon. Just prior to the swim start I met a lady about 30 years older than me. She was a local resident but also from my home state of Michigan. We talked for a few minutes, she was sweet and kind. Then she put her hand on my shoulder said “Kum Ba Yah” and we were off. This sport makes you want to become a better athlete but most importantly, a better person.
I’m honored to be representing Swim Bike Mom with a very motivating and inspirational group of women who truly define this sport. I’m excited about what 2015 will bring, and will represent the SBMAT with dignity, respect & honor ~
How to Follow Me:
Twitter: [http://twitter.com/runnergirl727]
Instagram: [http://instagram.com/trigirl727]
Blog: [http://trifrans.blogspot.com]
Nice story! Welcome to the world of Long Distance Tri. Good that you have marathons/half marys under your belt-important! At least I think so! I too was divorced and raised my daughter single handedly. She is now in a Master’s Programs (put her thru school myself too…which is why I have never been able to buy an expensive tri bike! HA!) Be proud of what you have been thru and what you are doing! Good luck with your training and racing!
Thank you for sharing Laura! I completely agree that a simple way to pay it forward is to provide those simple words of encouragement. A smile and a generous compliment can go far and do wonders for someone’s confidence. On the racecourse, Regardless of how tired I am, I always give simple words of encouragement to others on the course. It makes you feel good and makes the recipient feel good!
My first ocean tri was in Hilton Head last year! I was terrified because there were terrible storms the night before and of course I was checking the Great White Tracker website, but once I got there and got talking with some others, we all realized we were doing this together and at that moment, we were not competitors, but rather comrades who pulled each other through our first ocean swims. It was awesome and I loved it!