The Unstoppable Force: How a Former Pro Soccer Player Kept Her Kona Dream Alive Amidst a Bustling Family Life and a Thriving Business
The Unstoppable Force: How a Former Pro Soccer Player Kept Her Kona Dream Alive Amidst a Bustling Family Life and a Thriving Business
Roberta "Bobbie" Maker is no stranger to the world of competitive sports. A former professional soccer player, she had her sights set on the Women's Soccer League (WSL). However, when the opportunity didn't pan out, she found herself at a crossroads. But as they say, when one door closes, another opens. This is when triathlon entered her life.
Bobbie, originally from Portugal Cove, Newfoundland, had moved to the US on a full-ride soccer scholarship. She was a force to be reckoned with on the field, setting records that still stand today. But when her soccer career didn't take off as planned, she found solace in running. Joining a local running club, she met a fellow runner training for Ironman Canada. Intrigued and eager for a new challenge, Bobbie decided to give triathlon a shot.
The fellow runner turned out to be Ray Maker, better known as DC Rainmaker in the triathlon community. Their shared passion for the sport brought them closer, and they eventually fell in love. Together, they trained, raced, and built a life around their shared passion for triathlon.
Bobbie quickly became enamored with Olympic-distance racing. Despite her consistent top-five finishes, she couldn't quite clinch the win she desired. Her coach suggested a new challenge: the half Ironman. Bobbie embraced the challenge with open arms, setting her sights on qualifying for the Ironman 70.3 World Championship.
However, despite her best efforts, she fell short of qualifying. The disappointment was a tough pill to swallow, but it also marked a turning point in her life. Bobbie decided to step away from competitive sports, a decision she still stands by today.
Life didn't slow down for Bobbie. She and Ray got married, moved to Paris, and started a family. Bobbie opened a successful "Cupcakery" in the heart of Paris, and they welcomed three beautiful girls into their lives. Amidst all these changes, Bobbie realized she had left a part of herself behind - her athletic identity.
Determined to reclaim this part of her life, Bobbie returned to triathlon. With meticulous planning and a supportive family, she managed to balance her training with her busy family life. After a 12-year hiatus, she found herself back on the start line.
Her comeback race was the Ironman Klagenfurt. Despite battling illness and the challenges of the race, Bobbie crossed the finish line. The sense of accomplishment was overwhelming, a testament to her resilience and determination.
Her performance at Klagenfurt earned her a slot at the prestigious Ironman World Championship in Kona. Standing on the world championship stage, with her girls watching, was a dream come true. A year later, at Challenge Gran Canaria, Bobbie clinched her first age group win.
Bobbie's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the love for the sport. Her story serves as an inspiration to all, proving that it's never too late to chase your dreams, no matter what life throws your way.
This article was originally published in the July issue of Triathlon Magazine Canada.
Who is Roberta "Bobbie" Maker?
Roberta "Bobbie" Maker is a former professional soccer player from Portugal Cove, Newfoundland, who transitioned into triathlon after failing to make the cut for the professional soccer league due to rules limiting international players. She later became known for her ambition to compete in Ironman events, including the Kona World Championship, while balancing family life and her career.
What challenges did Maker face in her triathlon career?
Maker faced several challenges in her triathlon career, including not qualifying for the Ironman 70.3 World Championship after placing third at a qualifying race where only the top two competitors moved on. Additionally, she had to manage her dreams of competing in the sport with personal responsibilities, like running a business and raising a family.
How did Roberta Maker return to triathlon after her hiatus?
Maker decided to return to triathlon during the COVID lockdown after realizing she missed the competitive side of sports and needed a personal change. With the support of her family, she got a coach, reactivated her TrainingPeaks account, and signed up for an Ironman event.
What achievement did Maker reach after returning to triathlon?
After returning to triathlon, Roberta Maker achieved her goal of competing in the Ironman World Championship in Kona and eventually earned her first age group win at Challenge Gran Canaria, showing her daughters the value of perseverance and hard work.
How did Maker balance her triathlon goals with family life?
Maker balanced her triathlon goals with her family life through meticulous scheduling, delegating tasks, and seeking help when necessary. She made it a family effort to support her training and racing, involving her family in her journey.
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