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Bangkok Throwdown 2018 - PART 1

#abetterversionofme2018
If we chatted in recent weeks or if you read my last blog post, you already know that I was "just a weeee bit" anxious about participating in my first ever CrossFit competition. I had absolutely no idea what to expect and anyone who knows me well knows that I'm a bit of a perfectionist, that I am very competitive and that I don't want to let anyone, including myself, down – especially not after putting in so much work!

As the competition date was fast approaching, and my anxiety was becoming more evident, I decided to do everything I could to relax - spend time at the pool, eat out with friends, go to a basketball game, listen to music, practice more mindfulness and enjoy some positive podcasts. Believe it or not, but it worked (well to a certain extent of course). When the time came for me to travel to Thailand, I felt pretty put together.

Me along with two of my fellow coaches who were also competing
On Friday, I rushed from school to the airport to catch my (delayed) flight. Upon arrival in Bangkok, I immediately got into a taxi and made my way to meet my fellow coaches and some friends for a bite to eat. It ended up being a fairly late night (for me anyways), but another great way to relax.
Pre-competition dinner
Day 1 RECAP

Saturday morning, I woke up early, did a bit of mindfulness and listened to a few podcasts. I practiced some visualization techniques and reminded myself of all the reasons I was doing this competition.

When I arrived at the venue, my stomach felt a little off, but I like to think that was a pretty normal feeling. After the athletes briefing was complete, I began warming up for my first event and calming my thoughts. 

Event #1
I finished 5th out of 16, with a time of 17:48.

After the first event, I watched other competitors, I cheered for my fellow coaches, I ate some food and I tried to rest a little in preparation for event #2. 

Event #2

I finished tied for 1st out of 16, completing 3.5 rounds (88 reps).

At the end of day 1, I felt pretty good! I had won an event and I was sitting near the top of the leaderboard. I had not at all planned on finishing in the top 3, not even in the top 10, but day 1 made me think that anything was possible. I was really looking forward to...some food and rest of course...but then another full day of competition! 


Day 2 RECAP coming soon!

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