The past weekend in Bau Trang was nothing short of challenging and exhilarating. Our team embarked on a journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Bau Trang, Binh Thuan, to participate in a highly anticipated triathlon race. Covering a distance of approximately 233 kilometers, the journey lasted around 3 hours and 40 minutes. Some participants had already arrived the day before, while others, like my team, traveled together on Saturday morning.
The Journey to Bau Trang
I had the pleasure of traveling with Tri, Tung, and Phuc in Tri’s car. Tri is someone I have deep respect for, as we joined the LVD Team around the same time. With an extensive background in media companies in Vietnam, he eventually ventured into his own business, producing delicious and nutritious snacks. Throughout the ride, I enjoyed the lively conversations and humor shared among my companions. The journey was further enriched by the breathtaking landscapes we passed—lush forests, expansive green farms, and picturesque countryside scenery that left me in awe.
A Warm Welcome in Phan Thiet
We reached Phan Thiet city around noon, just in time for lunch. Our group joined another triathlon team, friends of Tri, many of whom I had met at a previous swimming training camp. One of the most wonderful aspects of the triathlon community is its close-knit and supportive nature. The camaraderie among athletes is truly heartwarming. I vividly recall my training sessions at Saigon High Tech Park—a well-known cycling loop with minimal traffic, making it a safe and ideal spot for serious cyclists. On multiple occasions, when my bike broke down, fellow cyclists would stop to assist me, reinforcing my appreciation for this incredible community.
Our lunch was a delightful spread of healthy dishes, ensuring we fueled our bodies with essential nutrients and carbs in preparation for the upcoming race. Carbohydrate loading, or “carb-loading,” is a well-known strategy among endurance athletes, allowing us to maximize glycogen storage in our muscles before an intense physical event.
Checking into the Hotel & Test Swim at the Lake
After lunch, we continued our drive to our hotel, M Continental by Mandala Mũi Né – Mandala Chăm Bay Mũi Né, located about 14 kilometers from the race start point. Although a bit inconvenient, it was the best accommodation option available, ensuring we had a comfortable stay and good rest before the race. After checking in, we quickly headed to the bike pick-up spot to finalize our preparations.
Before ending the day, I decided to do a test swim in the race lake. The lake was breathtaking, surrounded by white sand dunes that reflected the golden hues of the late afternoon sun. As I stepped into the water, I noticed it was calm yet slightly murky. The temperature was just right—not too warm nor too cold—making it an ideal setting for the race the next day. Swimming in open water always requires some mental adjustment compared to a pool, but I felt strong and ready. The short test swim helped me acclimate to the water conditions and gave me confidence for the upcoming challenge.
With all the final preparations done, we returned to the hotel to rest, hydrate, and mentally prepare for the big day ahead. The excitement was building, and I couldn’t wait for what was to come.
