Triathlon contender Nathan Shideler masters running, swimming and biking

                                                                                                                     Photo by Matthew Wood/The Cleveland Current

By Shana O'Malley
The Cleveland Current

Nathan Shideler has always enjoyed competing, so when the athlete heard about triathlons, it seemed natural for him to go out for the challenge.

“I have always had a hunger for competition and competed in athletics. I played soccer, baseball and basketball but I found that there aren't many opportunities for organized sports after you finish school, so I was looking for something to get involved in. I researched triathlons a little bit and decided I wanted to do one,” he explained.

A triathlon is a three-sport competition. Competitors must be able to swim, bike and run a set distance at the fastest time possible.

The basic gear includes a bike and helmet, swimming goggles and a pair of running shoes, but Shideler said serious contenders also wear special clothes and other gear.

“It just depends on how much you want to invest in the sport, as long as you have the basic’s you can compete,” he said.

Nearby competitions are held across the state of Mississippi, as well as nearby states such as Arkansas and Louisiana.

In the last two years, Shideler has participated in nine triathlons and has placed first and third in his age division. Prizes range from awards to cash as well as bragging rights around the gym.

“I have a little competition going on for fun with my friends and it makes it more entertaining,” he exclaimed.

Shideler ran cross-country in high school and competed in several 5k races but said learning to bike and swim presented new challenges.

“There are three different disciplines that you have to master so it takes more time to train for a triathlon because there are three different sports that you have to find time for,” he explained. “It can be a challenge but if you have other folks that you train with it can be a lot of fun.”

Shideler added that the hobby has given him a great opportunity to meet new people and make new friends.

“When I first started training, I didn’t really know anyone else who was doing this, but when I started riding and training, I found others who were participating in triathlons and cycling and it turned into something that allowed me to make a lot of new friends,” he said.

He added that anyone could do a triathlon as long as they are self-motivated.

“Just try it! A lot of races are geared toward beginners so even if you're not in the best of shape, I would say just go for it,” he said. “If you can’t swim but you can run or bike, then you can sign up for a relay team so you don't have to do all three.”

He added that swimming and cycling classes at Delta State University also help with conditioning.

When he isn’t training for the next big triathlon, Shideler plays golf, tennis and ultimate frisbee around Cleveland. He also enjoys weekly bike rides with a group of local cyclists.