Even Years Only?

I've discovered a pattern in my behavior. I don't know if it's intentional or just some kind of natural rhythm, but for the past 4 years I only seem to want to commit to triathlon training and racing in even numbered years.

2006 was a season full of tris. That was the year I concentrated on Olympic distance events and also did my first Half Iron distance event. I raced a lot in 2006 - 7 triathlons and 7 running events between January and September.

2007 was the year I first felt this motivational struggle. I "raced" two triathlons and a duathlon and 4 running events and I recall forcing myself to do each one. I wasn't training consistently and my results showed it. Mostly, I spent the summer by the pool enjoying the company of good friends and beer.

In 2008 I recommitted myself and had a big goal in mind - USAT Age Group Nationals. I started training in earnest very early in the year and filled my calendar with events - 6 triathlons, 1 duathlon, and 14 running events including three half marathons. I hit my goal and raced in Portland that September.

Last year I again struggled with motivating myself to get out and train. Job stress was a key factor, and I wasn't training for a specific goal as I had done the previous year. The odd-number year malaise struck again and I did not compete in any triathlons and ran only 3 events.

So here I am in 2010. I've done a 5K, half-marathon and triathlon already with plans for a full racing season of triathlon, Xterra, and running events. I might even throw a couple of open water swimming races into my schedule as well. I hope to carry this enthusiasm thorough to 2011, but I'll just have to see what happens...