Brittany Higgins: Embracing Waves and Wins in Tierra Verde
Brittany Higgins: Embracing Waves and Wins in Tierra Verde
Brittany Higgins is a name synonymous with the sun-drenched shores of Tierra Verde, Florida. Her journey through the triathlon world is as captivating as the coastal waters she adores. Born into a family where triathlons were more tradition than choice, Brittany's early exposure to the sport came from watching her father compete at the iconic Fort De Soto. At the tender age of 16, she took her first job as a lifeguard on the bustling sands of Clearwater Beach, a role that not only paid the bills but also paved the way for her future in professional athletics.
Early Splashes and Strides
Brittany's initial foray into triathlons wasn't a tale of immediate success. Her first swims were less about finesse and more about survival. "I just tried my best to keep up with my sister and not drown," Brittany recalls with a chuckle. Despite the rocky start, the thrill of competition and the joy of the sport took hold. It wasn't long before she found herself collecting finisher medals, her shelves now boasting over 50 from Ironman and Half Ironman events, with more than two dozen top-10 finishes.
A Lifeguard's Journey to Love the Waves
The turning point came when Brittany, while running along the beach, was spotted by fellow lifeguards who saw potential in her strokes. They offered to help refine her swimming techniques, an opportunity she embraced wholeheartedly. "That's where I truly fell in love with the water," she says. This newfound passion was nurtured through daily open water swims during breaks, transforming duty into training.
From Illinois Back to Florida's Embrace
Pursuing higher education took Brittany to Illinois, where she competed in track and cross country. Yet, each summer, she was drawn back to Florida's shores, rekindling her bond with the ocean. After earning her English degree, she realized her heart belonged not in the chilly climes of Chicago but in the warm embrace of St. Pete. "Chicago is way too cold," she admits. "I missed my family, the beach, and the palm trees."
Triathlon: A Journey of Self-Discovery
Now fully entrenched in the triathlon lifestyle, Brittany finds the sport to be a profound journey of self-discovery. "You learn a lot about yourself during training and racing," she reflects. "It requires patience, something I wasn't naturally good at, but I've learned to embrace it." Her training sessions, whether in the water, on a bike, or pounding the pavement, are moments of meditation and growth.
Swimming with Dolphins and Saving Pelicans
Brittany's connection to the water goes beyond athletic pursuit. She speaks with a sparkle in her eye about swimming alongside dolphins and rescuing pelicans tangled in fishing lines. "It's not just about the sport. It’s about connecting with nature and making a difference," she explains.
Encouraging Others to Dive In
For those contemplating the triathlon, Brittany offers simple yet powerful advice: "Go out there and have fun. See what you can do. You’ll surprise yourself. It’s a good time." Her journey illustrates that triathlon is more than a test of physical endurance; it's a celebration of life, resilience, and the unexpected joys of embracing challenges.
Brittany Higgins' story is a testament to the transformative power of triathlon. It's about finding your rhythm in the chaos of the waves, the courage in the heat of competition, and ultimately, the joy in every journey back to the starting line. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a newcomer to the sport, her journey from the sands of Clearwater to the professional tracks is a compelling reminder that every step, every stroke, and every ride is a step toward discovering your best self.
Who is Brittany Higgins discussed in the article?
Brittany Higgins is a professional triathlete from Tierra Verde who grew up competing in triathlons. Despite challenges during her early swim days, she has successfully completed more than 50 Ironman and Half Ironman races, many of which she placed in the top 10.
What is Brittany Higgins' connection to Clearwater Beach?
At the age of 16, Brittany Higgins worked as a lifeguard on Clearwater Beach. This experience helped her improve her swimming and fostered her love for water.
How did Brittany Higgins start in triathlons?
Brittany Higgins was inspired by watching her father race triathlons at Fort De Soto and was recruited by him along with her sister to participate in the family sport from a young age.
What did Brittany Higgins do after college?
After graduating with a degree in English and spending a year in Illinois, Higgins returned to Florida to continue working as a lifeguard on Clearwater Beach and resumed her open water swimming practices.
What does Brittany Higgins enjoy about open water swimming?
Brittany Higgins finds open water swimming peaceful and enjoys the presence of wildlife, such as dolphins, even though rough conditions can sometimes occur.
#TriathlonJourney #TierraVerdeAthlete
Source: https://thegabber.com/brittany-higgins-a-tierra-verde-womans-triathlon-journey/
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