Sport and Life

by Marilyn Chychota McDonald

We bring sport into our lives and it has an impact on everything we are. The entire package: asking our work, our families and our friends to be a part of our new found love. It affects our outlook, our decision making and our way of life.

I think it's important to first acknowledge that this lifestyle most likely isn't going to "go away." It is likely not a "phase" you are going through. It is a lifestyle of habits, choices, friends and how you as a person have chosen to live your life. It impacts everything.

I can remember when I decided to take up triathlon. It was for that very reason I mentioned above. I wanted to be surrounded by people who were fun, outdoorsy and goal-orientated. I enjoyed the lifestyle and the character it brought out in me. I slowly was changing my social scene and my outlook.

Now, I can think about what the world of triathlon and sport in general has given me. Most recently I've gone through some harder life changes. I'm certain without sport I wouldn't have had the mental strength to have handled things as I have.

I made a list of all the things sport has given me when things have gotten hard in life:

Normalcy
Fresh air
Laughter
Opportunity
Focus
Travel
A support network of friends
The ability to make new friends and really connect with current and old friends
Routine (This was huge!)
A positive outlet
Confidence
The ability to force myself to get up, face my fears and challenges and move forward

When we are racing, we often draw on life experiences to get us through. This year I've drawn on sport to get me through life. In both situations, I've remained true to person I want to be.

Marilyn is now accepting applications for 2013 coaching slots. You can contact her via e-mail.
Marilyn McDonald has been in elite sport since the age of 9, from show jumping to cycling and triathlon. Competing on an international stage in all three sports with an Ironman title, several podiums and state championships in cycling, Marilyn works with all distance and level of triathletes and cyclists. From beginners to elites; short course, bike racing, stage racing and long course triathlon, she has guided several athletes to the podium and to Hawaii qualifications.