Upstate Golfer Bryant Competes in First-Ever Triathlon
7/26/2012 12:00:00 AM | Women's Golf
Spartanburg, S.C. – Golfers walk, they don't run. Golfers fish their balls out of lakes and ponds, not swim in them. And, golfers sometimes ride carts, not bicycles. However, USC Upstate women's golfer Madison Bryant did all three when she competed in her first-ever triathlon last month at Carolina Lake.
Bryant, who will be a junior at Upstate in 2012-13, joined her dad in the triathlon at Carolina Lake. It was the first time either had competed in a triathlon, making the experience even better. The participants swam 500 meters, biked 14.1 miles and ran 3.1 miles. Bryant turned in a time of 1:55.26.
"This was my first triathlon, and it was hard as all get out," said Bryant. "I did this triathlon with my dad. We trained for about a month and a half prior to the event. We did two-a-days and long distance training in every event. I plan on doing another one before classes start up in August and the golf season begins."
While Bryant certainly enjoyed the experience competing in the triathlon, it was a grueling test. However, it one she says that she expects will become a hobby in her life.
"The swim was easy for me because I am practically part fish, but the bike was a challenge," said Bryant. "It was on back country roads that were very hilly. The run was the most excruciating part. The first mile wasn't bad, but the second mile was tough. It was straight uphill in the sun on a hot asphalt road. I was so happy just to finish. This is something I am planning on taking up as a hobby in the future."
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