"I want to do this always"

This is the story og Jakob Thusgaard - the next in line in the "Tell us your story"-competition - racing in his birth town, fillied with positive energy and expecting to go through the whole spectre of emotions while racing. Here he is sharing his love for the sport with us.

The basics

Jakob Thusgaard, a salesman at 37 years of age. Expat of Danish origin living in Amsterdam with wife and 2 year-old daughter. Has done two official triathlons + a self-supported half ironman last Saturday.

Why have you chosen to give yourself the challenge of doing a half iron-distance triathlon?

It was supposed to be part of natural progression from sprint in 2010 to olympic in 2011 to half ironman in 2012. But when you guys set up Challenge Aarhus in my birth city, I couldn't resist and signed up on one of the first days registration was open.

I wanted to move on to the half ironman distance, 'cause when you're around 40 with a family, a job, bills to pay and other obligations, you normally don't have time for these types of things. So, I set out to do it and at the same time I'm sharing my experience with others who might enjoy it too on my blog.

Why are you doing KMD Challenge Aarhus?

KMD Challenge Aarhus is the first event of its kind in my birth city of Aarhus, and it promises to be a blast! Starting with the swim in the beautiful bay, moving on to the bike in hilly and green surroundings and the stunning run, going through Aarhus and the impressive Aros museum of Art; probably every meter of the course will be lined by enthusiastic and friendly spectators, the entire event looks to become and absolutely unforgettable experience that any endurance athlete can only dream of having as a memory.

Tell us your greatest / most fun experience in sports

Just being a triathlete, being able to participate in events such as KMD  Challenge Aarhus gives me such an energy boost and positiveness that I can take into all other areas of my life. While every event will give me something to aim for, the biggest benefit is the training that gives me the energy to be a better father, colleague, and friend.

What motivates you?

The experience of staying fit, sharing that with other people, helping other people to improve their fitness from any level to any level by drawing on my experiences.

What are your expectations for KMD Challenge Aarhus?

It's going to be a tough and memorable day. Having just tested my body on a half ironman course of my own, I imagine that the more hilly course in Aarhus will be a rollercoaster of emotions going from "I want to do this always" to "Can we stop now, please?". If I can finish the course in less than 6 hours I'll be proud of myself, but more importantly I hope and look forward to KMD Challenge Aarhus delivering on its promise to be truly unforgettable!!!