Wahoo! What a fulfilling weekend it has been. Sometimes, all it takes is a mix of sweat, rain, pizza, and soul-nourishing conversations to feel grounded again.
After a brief break, I officially returned to triathlon training this week, and the weekend reminded me why I love this lifestyle so much—not just for the physical progress, but for the emotional richness it brings. Between brick training sessions and catching up with two dear friends, I felt more grateful than ever for the people, places, and practices that keep me going.
Saturday: Brick Training and Pizza-Fueled Recovery
The weekend kicked off with an intense brick training session—a 50km bike ride followed by a 5km run. My body was definitely pushed, but it felt good to get back into rhythm. There’s something about pushing your limits that reawakens your spirit, even when your legs are screaming by the end.
After the session, I met up with my long-time friend Hippo for lunch at Pizza 4P’s in Thao Dien, a cozy spot perfect for post-workout recovery. Warm tea, cheesy pizza, and carbs galore—it was just what I needed. But even better than the food was the company.
The Gift of Reconnecting
Hippo and I go way back. Both of us spent years in London, where we studied and worked before eventually returning to Vietnam. He came back about six months before I did, and not long after, we found ourselves working together at the same venture capital firm. Those months brought us closer than ever—we bonded over our love for international cuisine, global cultures, and late-night work chats that turned philosophical more often than not.
Though our career paths have diverged since, we continue to check in, share challenges, and push each other to grow. Knowing someone who’s walking a similar path in life, both professionally and personally, makes the journey less lonely. Seeing Hippo doing so well in his career truly inspires me, and having him nearby makes me feel grounded in a rapidly changing world.
Even the stormy weather couldn’t dampen our spirits. In fact, Ho Chi Minh City’s rainy season added to the charm of our catch-up. The sound of rain on the windows, warm tea in hand, and laughter echoing in a cozy space—it’s these little things that make life so beautiful.
Sunday: Listening to the Body and Nourishing the Soul
Sunday’s plan was ambitious: 70km of cycling followed by a 7km run. But after finishing the cycling portion, I knew I had hit my limit. My legs were sore, my energy low, and I could feel my body asking for a break. I messaged coach Dong to say I didn’t think I could handle the run—and his response was one of the reasons I trust him so deeply.
He said, “It’s okay. You just got back. No rush.”
That’s what makes him special. He’s not just an expert in endurance sports, he’s someone who understands balance. He knows when to push and when to pause. His leadership—both in athletics and in running his own successful company—is something I truly respect and aim to emulate.
Brunch with a Lifelong Role Model
After giving my body the rest it needed, I headed out to brunch with Michelle, a lifelong friend and another person I deeply admire.
Our story goes all the way back to childhood. My mom is an English teacher, and Michelle used to be one of her brightest students when she was just in grade 5. I was younger then, but I always looked up to her. She eventually earned a full scholarship to study in Australia, and later pursued her master’s degree in the UK. Today, she runs a thriving business with multiple English centers in both our hometown and Ho Chi Minh City.
What’s truly inspiring about Michelle isn’t just her business success—it’s the holistic approach she brings to education. In her summer camps, she incorporates not just academics but also arts, music, yoga, dance, and physical sports, ensuring that children grow into well-rounded individuals. Her vision for education mirrors what I hope to bring to my own life: balance, depth, and compassion.
During brunch, I also got to chat with her husband, an avid runner like myself. We talked not only about sports, but also about spirituality and mindfulness, two topics that have become increasingly important to me.
When I told Michelle about my upcoming podcast centered on mind, body, and spirit, she immediately offered to connect me with friends who work in mindfulness and holistic well-being. That kind of support from someone who has known me for two decades meant the world to me.
Gratitude, Rain, and Reflection
As the weekend wound down, I took time to reflect on what made it so special. Yes, I trained hard and improved my endurance. But more importantly, I spent quality time with people who’ve been part of my journey for years—people who inspire, challenge, and uplift me.
It was also a rainy weekend in Ho Chi Minh City, which added a certain calmness to everything. The rain seems to slow the city down just enough to make you feel more present. There’s something very meditative about walking through soft drizzle or hearing raindrops tap against your windows while sipping tea and catching up with old friends.
In the evening, I gave my parents a call. We talked about everyday things, and as always, their support reminded me of how lucky I am. We don’t always agree on everything, but the love is constant. They’ve always been there, quietly cheering me on through every project, challenge, and transformation.
After the call, I spent a bit of time working on my website—another passion project that’s slowly coming to life. I’m filled with excitement for the things ahead: more training, new creative projects, and of course, continuing to surround myself with people who make me better.
Why Community Matters
There’s a saying that goes, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” This weekend reminded me just how true that is. Whether it’s coach Dong’s understanding and mentorship, Hippo’s shared career aspirations, or Michelle’s lifelong inspiration—these connections are the backbone of my journey.
Training for triathlons is not just about physical strength. It’s about mental resilience, emotional balance, and having a support system that keeps you grounded. The rainy weather, the missed kilometers, the deep conversations—all of it is part of the process. Part of becoming a better athlete. A better friend. A better version of myself.
