GRRR...Dedicated To The Guy at Airport Security: T100 Vancouver Race Report

Sabrina Beauchamp's T100 Vancouver Race Report:

This one is dedicated to the airport security guy who, upon learning I was doing a triathlon, told me “no offense but usually people who race bikes are a smaller stature” 🙂 

This race encompassed a lot of firsts for me: I flew with my bike alone, built it, and was my own support crew all weekend, first time full on swimming in the ocean, first time with a disc wheel, and bonuses were meeting and watching my triathlon idols and seeing my first orcas 🥹

All to say, I’m immensely proud of myself, and my body (and its “stature”) for allowing me to experience these things. I spoke to this on Strava (follow me lol) but there is a level of empowerment that comes with doing this stuff alone. Not to discredit my support system I’m fortunate to have in many places though ♥️

Early start for the race at 5:30am meant waking up at 3:30am (not even early enough) to eat and make it down there. Didn’t leave myself enough time so I basically threw my stuff on my bike and hurried down to swim start. 

Swim: 2 laps with an Aussie exit, really enjoyed it despite it being my weakest sport. Ended up swimming my fastest ever in a race, despite my first ocean race. Quite a lovely way to start the day!

Bike: 4 laps of 20km course - a challenging course with a big hill we did every lap around UBC. Couldn’t have asked for better roads, they were super smooth, and on many sections I felt comfortable pushing power in TT. This course was a good reminder of why I love biking & triathlon.

Run: Had a bit of a downward spiral the first of three 6 km loops, had severe stomach cramping and didn’t think I would be able to get over it. Fortunately with some electrolytes and carbs we got back on track. Found a buddy and we paced each other for most of the race, then sent it at the end to beat her 😉 surprised myself with finishing under 5 hours in 4:57 and 14th in my AG.

Overall such an amazing experience, although this was my first time at this distance, it was PBs across the board. Now to focus on the last big build before my full Ironman in Ottawa!

Coach Julia's Thoughts:

When I read Sabrina's race report, I was appalled that anyone would ever make such remarks about Sabrina or any other individual. I firmly believe that triathlon is an inclusive sport, and it is deeply concerning for someone to issue such an insult towards Sabrina, an IM 70.3 World Championship finisher, and our Athlete of the Year.

Let me be clear: there is no ideal body shape for triathlon or cycling. The world's top triathletes come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Approximately five years ago, I also faced comments that I don't look like a triathlete.

Body shape judgment or ageism has no place in our sport. To Sabrina and everyone else reading this, continue to hold your heads high; you are strong and feisty! You are engaging in a pursuit that many people would not even dare to attempt.

Congratulations, Sabrina, on yet another remarkable race. We look forward to seeing you crush Ironman Ottawa!!

Coach Julia