R acing and rejoicing
Katrin Lilly Magnusdottir works in cabin crew and as a safety instructor for Air Iceland Connect. She practises various sports and outdoor recreational activities such as sea swimming, and last year she competed in a triathlon for the first time. This year, she plans to take it one step further. TEXT: Eyglo Svala Arnarsdottir PHOTO: Arni Saeberg
You’ve previously trained in ballet and yoga. Why did you move on to triathlon? I was sort of dared into triathlon and competed for the first time last year. My friend’s husband was turning 50 and was totally going to get into shape and set goals for himself. He formed a training group and challenged us to compete in the Laugarvatn triathlon, a half-Olympic triathlon. I took one week to think it through: “Can I do it?”. I had to think about all the pros and cons, but then I started
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training and I certainly don’t regret it. I attended cycling classes and took private swimming lessons – I hadn’t swum since high school! Then I was the only one who went to Laugarvatn and completed the challenge! I took a photo, sent it to the others and wrote: “Where were you!?”
training, I stopped to think: “Katrin, you’re 45 and you have never participated in any competition sport. What are you thinking?” But I want to be a great role model for my children. My daughter drew a picture of me competing in the first triathlon, writing: “Go, mummy!”. This is what makes it all worthwhile.
How did you feel after crossing the triathlon finish line?
And now you’re about to become a Landvaettur. What is that?
It was the most amazing feeling. Just wonderful. And it made me want to continue. Sometimes while
It involves four challenges in each of the four regions of the country, which you have 12 months
