Two-time world champion turned tri coach Siri Lindley on how tri and horses helped her beat cancer
WHY I TRI
I first became involved in triathlon when I was 23. I was just in awe of these people of all ages, sizes and abilities, every single one of them finding themselves through the challenge of swim, bike and run. I told my friend I wanted to do a triathlon. The only problem was that I couldn’t swim.
My favourite moment has always been crossing the finish line! The best feeling in the world, knowing you faced your fears and gave it your all, and seeing the faces of family, friends and even how the crowd get so excited for you.
My cancer diagnosis of acute myeloid leukaemia with a genetic mutation brought me to my knees. I could tell in my doctor’s voice how serious it was. [My wife] Rebekah was beside me with tears pouring down her face. But it was not my time to go, I was going to survive and thrive. I couldn’t afford to not believe that or I wouldn’t show up ready to fight. I looked for proof. Triathlon helped. Aged 23, I’d set [and later achieved] the impossible goal to be a world champion – even though I came last at my first race!
When I was really sick, just out of hospital and 20 pounds lighter than
“With a great coach, you want to do the best for them too, and when you’re doing it for a reason greater than yourself, you become much more powerful”
I am today, I wanted to ride my horse, Savannah. Bek said not to risk it, but horses are such sensual beings, and meet you exactly where you are. Before I got sick, I’d be holding on for dear life, yet now Savannah took the tiniest steps. When cancer-free I wanted to celebrate by riding. Before I had my foot in the stirrups Savannah was taking off. Her way of saying: ‘Siri, it’s time to start living again.’
I don’t care what level you reach in sport, business and life, every human needs a coach or mentor, someone you can bounce questions off to help you on your journey. With a great coach, you want to do the best for them too, and when you’re doing it for a reason greater than yourself, you become much more powerful.
