From Fear to Finish Line: Late Start, Big Wins with Mary Hager

Imagine learning to swim from the legendary six-time Ironman World Champion, Dave Scott, in your twenties, only to let a fear of falling off a bike keep you from the world of triathlon for decades! That's exactly what happened to our incredible guest this week, Mary Hager. Living in Washington, DC, at the age of 60, Mary finally decided to tackle her fear and dive headfirst into the world of triathlon. Fast forward to her 70s, and Mary became the 2023 Long Distance AquaBike World Champion!

 

This isn't just a story about athletic achievement; it's a testament to the power of overcoming fear and discovering hidden passions at any age. Mary shares her inspiring journey, from her first tentative sprint triathlon in 2008 to standing on the podium in Ibiza, proving that it's truly never too late to start something new – and even become the best in the world at it.

 

Beyond her incredible victories, Mary reflects on the vital role of community support in her training, the smart strategies she employs to adapt her training through the years, and the beautiful balance she strikes between her athletic pursuits and cherished family life. She also offers a fascinating glimpse into her early days training alongside a young Dave Scott when he was a water polo player and coach, even planting the seed for his future triathlon dominance after witnessing his natural talent.

 

Get ready for a conversation filled with humor, humility, and a whole lot of heart. Mary shares how training with a supportive community propelled her growth as an athlete, the sweet satisfaction of proving naysayers (including her own husband!) wrong, and the exhilarating experience of competing at national levels and proudly representing Team USA. This episode is a powerful reminder that your goals are within reach, no matter your age or starting point – all you need is a little courage and a willingness to try.

 

So,Let’s Tri this!

 

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