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Katrina Smith, a remarkable mom, has once again captured our hearts by not only completing an Ironman but also managing to pump breast milk during the race. You may remember her from last summer when she finished a triathlon and breastfed her then seven-month-old son just minutes after crossing the finish line. This summer, she took on the monumental task of a full Ironman while still breastfeeding her 19-month-old son, Max.
For those unfamiliar with Ironman competitions, participants tackle an intense course that includes a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and a full marathon of 26.2 miles. It’s basically the ultimate endurance test. Although Katrina didn’t plan to feed Max during the race, she knew she would have to pump to stay comfortable and focused on the challenges ahead.
However, Ironman regulations prohibit competitors from accepting anything from spectators, which means no snacks or water can be taken during the race. This posed a challenge for Katrina as she wondered how she could access her manual pump during the Santa Rosa event. Fortunately, the event staff were incredibly supportive, ensuring that her pump made it to her transition area right after the swim and bike segments. “They not only helped me devise a plan but took responsibility for my pump and made sure it was in my run gear bag,” she shared with enthusiasm. “Keep fighting the good fight, mamas!”
Katrina admitted that the milk she pumped never reached Max, as it was discarded due to the heat, but those brief stops allowed her to power through the Ironman. “It was an unbelievable experience,” she reflected. “I aimed to finish in under 15 hours and accomplished that! The official time limit is 17 hours for the race, while professional athletes finish in 9.5 to 10.5 hours. Given my circumstances, I felt I did remarkably well. Just getting there was a tremendous achievement!”
As August 1st marked the onset of World Breastfeeding Week, Katrina stands as an inspiring figure for moms who juggle their fitness goals with the demands of motherhood. She candidly acknowledged the difficulties of training for an Ironman while caring for a toddler. “Finding time to train was tough,” she confessed. “I did most of it in my living room on a treadmill or bike trainer while keeping an eye on Max. When I had long rides or runs, my husband would watch him, and I also utilized the kids’ club at the local gym. Max loved it!”
When she’s not training or being a breastfeeding advocate, Katrina runs her own doula business in Atascadero, California. Her message to moms is clear: prioritize what works for you and your family. “I encourage my clients to trust their instincts,” she stated. “Moms know what’s best, and we must support one another’s choices.”
Katrina hopes her journey inspires other mothers to realize that they can achieve their personal goals while being excellent parents. “The sky isn’t the limit,” she emphasized. “We can be incredible moms and pursue our dreams at the same time. I want moms to feel empowered and know they have support, despite any negativity they may encounter.”
In summary, Katrina’s incredible journey through the Ironman while pumping breast milk is a powerful testament to the balance of motherhood and personal ambition. It serves as a reminder that with determination and support, mothers can chase their dreams while nurturing their families.
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