Remember the FUN

I have been following a story out of Kona last week about a guy who, both allegedly and later admittedly, cut the course and then boasted about his finish time. Obviously this is troubling on any number of fronts. The tri-geek peanut gallery is up in arms over a guy cheating on the hallowed proving grounds of the Triathlon World Championships. Shoot first and ask questions later, burn 'em at the stake and git a rope kinda stuff. And while I personally feel his actions reprehensible, unsportsman-like and totally uncool, I also feel there is another side of the story we might fail to appreciate.

You have heard me comment on many an occasion of the costs involved with our wonderful sport, most recently demonstrated by my $702 entry to 2012 Ironman Canada. That is going to be an expensive day in Penticton, as upon KQ (Kona Qualify) one must pay that entry on the spot. Let's do some quick math:

IMC entry fee: $702

Travel expense to/from (five days): $1000

Gear: $750 (does not include new bike)

Kona entry fee: $750

Kona travel expense: $1500 (I have a few perks)

Misc: $500

TOTAL: $4,450

And while that amount may seem trifling to the average IM participant who boasts income of $150K+ (taken from WTC polls), it is a lot to this (self-employed) age grouper.

Here is my take: I want my money's worth in both experience, challenge and competition. I insist that if I am laying down that amount of cabbage that the race be fair, on a level field, and with adequate security and safeguards against somebody beating my slow arse because they ran a shorter distance. If that person was to take MY podium spot I would call my cousin Vito in Sicily, pronto.

Above and beyond these two minor examples of money and fair play is what I call the big picture. The big picture is this: If you are not a Pro triathlete racing for prize money or sponsorship, THIS IS SUPPOSED TO BE FUN. First and foremost. Yes, there is competition, hard work, expense, commitment, anguish, sacrifice and ego, but fun is the heart of the matter, the goal and the reason. Winning (especially at all costs) is a false god. Winning is NOT the only thing, matter of fact it is NOTHING.

I cannot think of a more perfect example with which to illustrate one of my favorite messages than the recent Kona incident. Once again:

I would rather run a clean race, do my best, give all and finish second, than

win doing anything other.

Remember the fun.

Pix: Alaska Air fun-loving tail logo. The gods of Kona frown on cheaters. Simon (left) and Phil draw up my training plan for 2012 on a cocktail napkin at Jacki Rey's Ohana Grill. Fun stuff.