Why I Tri? by Pam Kozu

My name is Pam Kozu and I am one of the lucky ones.  I am grateful that I love my career as a nurse, have 2 fabulous grown children, and a very supportive loving husband. I bring that same gratefulness to my pursuit of triathlon. This year will be my fourth season as a triathlete and though I may be on the slow journey - it's my journey.

It all started when my spin instructor, Mike Swienty, suggested I tri a triathlon. At first, I was a little hesitant thinking there was no way I could ever do it. I was a competitive swimmer in high school and college and ran a couple of marathons in my 20's but I left those sports a good 30 years ago. 

The first year I completed one sprint and had it not been for RTB I am sure it would have been my last. I am grateful for the friends, the group swimming, the Tuesday track, the lake swimming and the all-around encouragement that I have received for the last 4 years. 

I have always used exercise to control my migraine headaches and over the years have appreciated a goal to reach for.  Last year I did my first Olympic triathlon at Seafair and look forward to competing in 2 more this summer.  I have been grateful for the following advice and encouragement along the way: 

1. Wear a wetsuit - it will help you swim faster. (unless you're claustrophobic)

2. Wear dark tinted goggles in the lake - the sun will be in your eyes at one of the turns.

3. "Make sure you warm-up before the swim – swim 50 strokes out and 50 back"      -Patty (I panicked the first time and had to hang on to the surfboard, so I’m glad I took this advice the second time around)

4. "It will be fun to run a ½ marathon!  Are you in? Always more fun when you have friends there." -Sean  (even if you do have to take your shoes off every 5 miles)

5. "Gator tires cause fewer flats." –NW Tri and Bike (they always have good advice about everything!)

6. "Keep your legs moving fast even on the hills." -Mike (I'm still working on this one)

7. "Move your arms and your legs will follow." -Mary

8. "Long and slow" -Erin

I am grateful to be involved in a sport that offers good clean fun, competition, drive, ambition, and good health. I am grateful that I can be mediocre at all three sports and there is still a place for me. I am grateful I tri and I am in it for the long haul.

---

Pam with the Tuesday Track Group

Pam at Lake Meridian second in age group finish 2014