There’s something deeply rewarding about living a life of purpose. As I reflect on my recent days, balancing my commitments as Chairwoman for UWC Selection Season 2024-2025 and training as a triathlete, I realize how intertwined these two passions are—both pushing me to grow, give back, and live intentionally.
Giving Back: The UWC Selection Journey
It’s Saturday evening, and after a long day, I finally wrap up the planning for UWC Day around 10 PM. The day is set for January 4th and 5th, where my team and I will welcome 60 candidates to participate in activities designed to select the most deserving individuals for this year’s scholarship program.
As someone who received a life-changing scholarship from UWC at 17, this work is personal. Without that opportunity, I wouldn’t be who I am today. Now, leading the selection process feels like passing on a torch that lit my own path.
This year, I’m fortunate to collaborate with incredible teammates—Dex, Tung, and Chau—who share the vision of creating a meaningful and engaging experience for our candidates. While juggling these responsibilities can be demanding, the sense of fulfillment outweighs the exhaustion. Knowing that I am contributing to the dreams of the next generation is a joy unlike any other.
Morning Meditation and Training: A Ritual of Gratitude
Sunday morning begins early—4:30 AM, to be exact. Rising before dawn isn’t always easy, but there’s magic in the stillness of these early hours. Pulling back the curtains, I see stars scattered across the dark sky. It’s a reminder of the vastness of the universe and my small, but purposeful place within it.
I start my day with a 30-minute meditation. This sacred time allows me to visualize my training and set intentions for a productive day. Meditation, for me, feels like a direct connection with the Creator, God, or Universe. It’s a moment to immerse myself in light and gratitude, and occasionally, I lose track of time—once even meditating so long that I was late for training!
By 5:30 AM, I’m ready to head out into the chilly Saigon morning. My destination is the Saigon Bridge, a now-familiar training ground that I once found intimidating.
Overcoming Fear: Training on the Saigon Bridge
The Saigon Bridge, historically known as Newport Bridge (Cầu Tân Cảng), has stood as a symbol of connection and resilience in Ho Chi Minh City. Spanning the Saigon River, it links Bình Thạnh District and District 2 and serves as a vital gateway for traffic. It’s also where I’ve faced and conquered one of my greatest fears—cycling in traffic.
Back in June 2024, my first attempt to train on this bridge ended in a fall. The traffic was overwhelming, and I doubted whether I’d ever return. But something about the challenge excited me. I began visualizing myself confidently cycling across the bridge, and over time, visualization became reality.
Now, my typical training routine involves completing nine 10-kilometer loops around the bridge and along the Hanoi Highway—90 kilometers in total. This morning, I start slow, clocking 30 kilometers per hour, and gradually pick up speed, reaching a peak of 50.2 kilometers per hour. The feeling of wind rushing past is exhilarating.
Learning from a Great Coach
A significant part of my progress is thanks to my coach, Dong. His firm yet kind approach has been instrumental in building my skills and confidence. Unlike my previous coach, whose focus was primarily on indoor training, Coach Dong emphasizes road conditions, wind dynamics, and real-world scenarios.
He has taught me essential techniques, such as:
- Pedaling Efficiency: Focusing on pulling up as well as pushing down, ensuring a smooth circular motion.
- Cornering: Approaching turns with precision and control, avoiding overzealous maneuvers.
- Braking: Managing speed effectively without riding the brakes unnecessarily.
Through one-on-one sessions and tailored exercises, I’ve improved not just my speed but also my bike handling skills—an often-overlooked aspect of triathlon training.
Lessons in Resilience
Cycling as an adult-onset triathlete has been a humbling experience. The phrase “it’s just like riding a bike” is misleading. While most people can ride a bike, mastering the nuances of cycling in triathlon—handling sharp corners, navigating traffic, and maintaining high speeds—is a whole new level of challenge.
Each scar and stumble along the way tells a story of resilience. Whether it’s learning to unclip from pedals at a stoplight or refining my balance on uneven roads, every setback has taught me patience and persistence.
A Life of Balance and Joy
Balancing my role as Chairwoman for UWC and my triathlon training isn’t easy, but it’s deeply rewarding. Both require discipline, dedication, and a willingness to grow through challenges.
As I reflect on these experiences, I’m reminded of a simple truth: life is about finding joy in the journey. Whether it’s helping young minds achieve their dreams or pushing my physical limits on the bike, these moments fill my life with purpose and gratitude.
For anyone reading this, I encourage you to find your own path of passion and giving back. Whether through small acts of kindness, pursuing a dream, or helping others realize theirs, the joy you’ll receive is immeasurable.
So, as I gear up for another day of planning and training, I hold onto this thought: every step, every pedal stroke, and every act of service brings me closer to becoming the better version of myself. And that, in itself, is a journey worth celebrating.