The Final Push

Late last Fall, I decided to embark on a journey that is coming to a close this weekend. I entered into Triathlon Canada's Introduction to Competition Coaching Program. Only 13 individuals were able to start the process in November and I was very fortunate to grab the last spot thanks to a good friend's recommendation.

After 20 hours of classroom learning and discussion in November, we, the coaches, were left on our own to complete our first Case Study called Moovnot. It was about town that is out of shape and the new Mayor wants to change that. Thats where I fit in as I present the solutions with an Adult and Kids Triathlon program to have everyone swim, bike and run their way into shape.

After receiving the confirmation of passing the first Case Study, it was on to Part II. So early April, we met at OAT's Provincial Training Centre at the University of Guelph. For undetermined reasons we were now a group of seven. This was an exciting weekend as we were able to observe, discuss and partake in an organized training weekend with Provincial level athletes. See my blog post from April 6 to read my thoughts on that weekend. We were then sent on our way to complete Case Study 2 called Moovnow, where we had created a successful program and now it was time to move on. We had to create for a successful transition for the next coach as well as show various weeks of training from an annual plan. The toughest part was to create a logbook of workouts that happened over a 4 week period complete with anecdotal comments. To all the people out there who I coach in swimming, triathlon and one to one sessions, thanks for being my lab rats and allowing me to reflect on my coaching practices to become a more complete coach.

Then the email arrives, Evaluation Part 3 set for July 3 and 4. Of course it arrives with less than two weeks to go and that I am now partnered with 3 coaches whom I have not worked with. As I am in the final push to get things organized for my swim, bike, run and transition workouts, I look forward to sharing this final process with the other coaches and athletes. I plan on being prepared, offering my knowledge to the best of my ability and most importantly being myself. That's what got me to this point and that's what will make me successful in the end.

Happy Training.

2009 Kelso Open Water Swimming

2009 APPLICATION FORM
KELSO OPEN WATER SWIMMING
Kelso Conservation Area
http://www.hrca.on.ca/ShowCategory.cfm?subCatID=1085

The following explains the times available for swimming, the cost and registration. This swimming opportunity is available and open to anyone and is being hosted by the Milton Triathletes and Mississauga Triathlon Club.

Swim Schedule:
Sunday: 8:30 a.m.-10:00a.m. May 24 – NOTE 1 time only due to Dragon Boat races
Saturdays: 8:30 a.m.-10:00a.m. May 30 through September 5, 14 swims.
Thursdays: 6:15 p.m.-8:p.m. June 11 through September 3, 12 swims.
DO NOT ENTER WATER UNTIL LIFEGUARDS ARE PRESENT
YOU MUST ENTER AND EXIT THE LAKE THROUGH LIFEGUARD CONTROL
If for any reason you have to exit the lake at a different exit you must check in with lifeguard control to advise your safety.
Cost:
Swim fees are $95 for entire session (29 swims). Cash or Cheque payable to Milton Triathletes,
Payment and registration:
YOU MUST BE A MEMBER OF OAT TO REGISTER TO SWIM
OAT registration forms are available on line at www.triathlonontario.com
Registration: 2 Options
1. Bring your OAT card and this registration form to Kelso on Sunday May 24, Saturday May 30, June 6 or Thursday June 11.
2. Mail to J.J. Neely, 881 Trudeau Drive, Milton ON L9T5T6
Questions?
J.J. Neely - 905-875-4050 – jjneely@sympatico.ca

Water Quality 
The Kelso beach has been closed only twice - very briefly - due to unacceptable water test results since 1996. This is due primarily to improvements to area septic systems and also the installation of a bird screen in the beach area.

ATHLETE WAIVER AND RELEASE
In consideration of the acceptance of this application, I for myself, my executors, administrators and assigns, do hereby release and discharge the Milton Triathletes and the Mississauga Triathlon Club, from all claims and damages, demands and actions whatsoever in any manner arising or growing out of my participation in this activity. I attest and verify that I have full knowledge of the risks involved in this event and I am physically fit and sufficiently trained to participate.

Signature __________________________ Date ________________

Name: Phone:

OAT #: e-mail:

Address