FROM FRACTURES TO FINISH LINES: THE OUTCOME
- Adam Lee
- Sep 10, 2024
- 4 min read
This is the story of resilience, grit, and the relentless pursuit of a dream. The 2024 Multisport World Championships in Townsville is now behind me, but the journey from fractures to finish lines will forever be engrained in my memory. What started as a battle against my own body turned into a testament of what it means to persevere, manifest, and overcome.
When I arrived in Townsville on Friday seeing the other international athletes and the course, the excitement was overwhelming. The sun was beaming down on The Strand, and the humidity hung in the air. But I was ready, every bead of sweat, every gruelling session, every sacrifice had led to this moment. I wasn’t just here to compete, I was here to prove that no obstacle could keep me from my goals.
Sunday, the 18th, was race day for the Standard Duathlon. The race was a gruelling 10km run, a 40km bike ride, and a final 5km run. My strategy was clear. Pace myself at 3:45-3:50 minutes per kilometre during the first run, conserve energy, and hit the bike segment with precision. But as fate would have it, I rolled my ankle towards the back end of the run. I pushed on, clocking in a solid 37:18 for the first 10km. That time gave me the boost I needed, however the bike segment proved challenging. My legs, usually strong and reliable, struggled. The 40km ride took me 4 minutes longer than I’d hoped. Yet, I wasn’t done. The final 5km run demanded everything I had left, and with every ounce of strength, I crossed the line 8th in my category. It wasn’t a position I was happy with, but overall I put the best performance together with my current level of strength and endurance.
Then came the Cross Duathlon 4 days later, a scene I'm quite new to with only 1 previous offroad race under my belt. This style of racing is on a whole new level, it pushes both the body and mind to their limits. The rugged terrains, the unpredictable challenges, the adrenaline you have across the course it’s what I live for. My running cross-country background gave me confidence and after completing the first 6km run I was ready for the bike segment. My legs, despite everything, felt strong. I flew through the fire trails, passing competitors, and my confidence increased. The technical single track was demanding, and I struggled to maintain my pace, however I kept pushing through every turn and every obstacle as quick as I could. I eventually neared the end of the 20km ride and knew the final 3.2km run would be a test of willpower. I dug deep, sprinting towards the finish line along the beach with everything I had. When I crossed that line in second place, the silver medal around my neck wasn’t just a piece of metal it was a reminder that every challenge I had faced along the way had lead to this moment.
This journey has been about more than just physical endurance, it’s been about the emotional and mental strength required to rise above adversity. The support from my sponsors was not just a bonus it was essential. Body in Sync Remedial Massage helped me recover when I thought my body had given up. Brisbane Foot Clinic ensured that my feet were not only healed but ready to take on the world. The Athletes Foot Springfield didn’t just provide footwear, they provided the confidence to step back onto the track without fear. Kinect Physiotherapy was there every step of the way, helping with specific therapies. Pedal Passion took my bikes to the next level, tuning them to perfection, so I could focus on the race and not on the mechanics. Lastly Triple A Performance Training who created a training plan that was not just about recovery but about resurgence. Every session, every drill, every pep talk, they all played a role in turning a fractured athlete into a world-class competitor.
To anyone out there facing their own challenges, I hope my story lights a fire within you. The road ahead may be long, it may be tough, and it may seem impossible at times. But with resilience, determination, and the right support, you can overcome anything. The journey from fractures to finish lines isn’t just about physical achievement it’s about the human spirit’s ability to endure, adapt, and thrive.
As I close this chapter and look ahead to the next challenge, I carry with me the lessons learned, the battles fought, and the victories earned. Whatever comes next, I know I have the strength, the perseverance, and the belief in myself to tackle it head on. This is just the beginning.
Noosa Triathlon November 3rd will close out this years season. Where we gradually build to an even bigger year with over three World Qualifying Races at the start of 2025.
Lastly, a massive thanks to all my family and friends who have supported me on this journey. I know deep down you play a huge role in my success.
My Sponsors
Comments