Cody Westheimer, 30
Tell us a little bit about you:
I'm a film composer residing in Los Angeles. I grew up in Winchester Canyon (Goleta, California) and attended San Marcos High School. I was never an athlete until 2007 when my father died. I found myself working on a film about folk hero Dean Karnazes (UltraMarathon Man) and that inspired me to train for my first marathon. (More on this at www.runningformyfather.com) Earlier this year I took the leap into triathlon. I completed my first, the UCSB Tri on my 30th birthday in 2:51 and change. I love to swim, biked (mountain) as a kid and of course love to run…so it was a no brainer for me to put the 3 together.
When did you complete your first triathlon (and if you’ve completed more than one, how many)?
The only other tri completed was the Strawberry fields Olympic, in 2:44 and change.
What inspires you to train/compete
My father. He was a very popular veterinarian in Santa Barbara, Dr Eric Westheimer. He owned Valley Animal Hospital. When I find myself hurting in the late miles I just think about him and what he went through during his valiant fight with cancer – a brain tumor to be exact. He was the best father (and friend) I could ever ask for – I dedicate this all to him.
What is your favorite thing about the sport?
The Challenge. The People. The Triumph.
What’s your least favorite thing?
The potential for injuries. The side stitch.
What is the best advice you ever received regarding the sport of triathlon?
Enjoy it. We're only competing against ourselves.
Share your top three (or one, or ten) training tips:
- Speedwork is huge bang for the buck.
- Moderation.
- Days off.
- Train on the Bike Trainer.
- Core work.
Now if I can just follow my own advice!
How do you stay motivated?
(See above) Train hard. It's the ultimate break from the stress of life. If you're not doing it because you love it, why do it? You can control your own destiny with endurance sports. Outside of injury you're the one who ultimately decides how much work you're going to put into training, etc. This was very empowering to me (and still is) during my initial grieving period when I felt absolutely screwed by the world for taking my dad away. Training hard has really helped me ease that pain.
How has training for or participating in triathlon(s) affected other areas of your life?
Very positively. I'm more energetic, need less sleep and feel pretty good. Except after a long run or ride – then I'm a total vegatable.
Any words of encouragement for novice or aspiring triathletes?
I am a novice!
Do you have a post-triathlon indulgence?
Yes. Many. Usually involves a whole Lil' Caeser's Pizza and Crazy Bread and plenty of garlic sauce. Frozen yogurt works too!
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