Audra Danielle Dorsey
Although I love Tri-ing, my true love is music.
I am a singer songwriter. I started playing piano at the age of 7, and taught myself how to play the guitar when I was 12. It's been 8 years since I picked up my first 6 string. 3 guitars and tons of songs later (over 50), I am more than proud and truly confident in the artist I've become. And since last year, I've been teaching guitar and songwriting to some pretty wonderful students!
Training for triathlons has provided much inspiration for ideas and music. Tri-ing not only makes me a better musician, but a better woman overall. And, that's why I have made the commitment to push myself harder. Harder in the water, harder on the bike, and harder on the road.
This new challenge of becoming a confident multisport athlete reminds me of when I was 12. I begged my dad for a guitar. He got me a beginners Ibanez starter kit from Sam Ash. With a black acoustic guitar, picks, a tuner, some books, and a CD. Although the guitar and songwriting came naturally to me, I still had to work hard. The first year my fingers bled from playing so much. Years 2-6 I improved on my stage presence, and overall playing abilities. And these past 2 years, I have really focused on writing powerful and inspiring lyrics.
Here I am, at the age of 20. My dad bought me a road bike, Forerunner 310, pedals, shoes, and other bike accessories. I've been swimming for years, and running for 1 year. I know this first tri season will be challenging, and most of all, a season of learning. But, I have already seen great improvement in myself since March when I got serious.
I want to help others chase the TRI life. And although it may take a few years to feel totally confident in my athlete self, I am on a journey. And I only hope that you will join me.
*I am Journalism student at the University of South Florida St. Petersburg.
Blogging keeps me focused on training and school!
