February 10, 2026 - Anne Basso
Triathlon isn’t just a sport to me; it’s a lifelong passion that has shaped my journey from professional racing to high-performance coaching. My story actually began the same year as the brand that defined our sport—1983. That’s why I am incredibly honored to formally join the Zoot Sports family as a regular contributor. Zoot represents the heart, innovation, and 'Ohana' of the triathlon world, and I’m excited to give back to this community.
Moving forward, I’ll be sharing the elite knowledge and coaching expertise I’ve gained over the years—from technical training tips and race-day strategy to honest gear performance and the relatable life-triathlon experiences we all share. My goal is to help you reach your next finish line with confidence and a smile, fully embracing your journey while writing your own unforgettable story—and of course, reaching your goals and pushing far beyond them!"
To kick things off, I want to talk about something we all face, whether we are pros or first-timers: the 'life' part of the triathlon equation. We often focus so much on the data and the gear that we forget the sport is a mirror for our own growth. In this first post, I’m diving into overcoming setback and how “Returning Once More” is our growth in our story and best version of ourselves yet!
Returning Once More – A Coach’s Journey Through Setbacks and Renewal
Insights for Athletes and Anyone Facing Challenges
As I reflect on the transition from 2025 to 2026, a powerful phrase continues to shape my outlook: “Returning once more.” This theme isn’t just a mantra—it’s the reality of my journey as an athlete, a coach, and a person determined to rebuild after adversity. Whether you’re racing an IRONMAN or facing personal challenges, there are moments when doubt creeps in, and you question your ability to go on. The key is learning how to reconnect with your purpose and shift your perspective to what you can control, so you can push through and rise again.
Acceptance: The First Step in Rebuilding
Acceptance is where the journey back begins. I remember a particularly tough time—a road accident that severely injured my knee, all while I was already battling a hip injury and the stress of professional competition. The setback felt overwhelming, threatening to undo years of hard work and progress. It forced me to ask difficult questions: How bad is it? How long will recovery take? Will I ever truly return? Initially, I tried to accept a three-month timeline for healing, but reality had other plans. Months later, I still couldn’t run, and the frustration of immobility was compounded by loss of muscle mass and confidence. Acceptance wasn’t just about acknowledging the injury, but about coming to terms with needing a new path forward.
Reconnecting with Your Essence
In the face of setbacks, I discovered the importance of reconnecting with my essence—my “why.” I’ve always been driven by a love for movement, competition, and the outdoors. That spirit became my fuel, pushing me through tedious rehab sessions and, when formal physical therapy wasn’t available, relying on my coaching background to self-guide my recovery. Your “why” doesn’t have to be complex; it might simply be a desire to live healthier or to feel better. Whatever it is, let it be your support system as you return, once more, to the things you love.
Trial, Error, and the Power of Repetition
Progress rarely happens in a straight line. My journey back was full of failed attempts and repeated efforts. Every setback became an opportunity for learning. Sometimes, what felt like failure was simply another stage in the process of acceptance and transformation. I learned to balance belief in my readiness with the humility of recognizing my limitations. Competing professionally while far from my best wasn’t easy—but it taught me to fight for progress and to accept both the “low-me” and the “high-me.” The will to return, supported by my essence, slowly turned acceptance into hope and action.
Coaching Yourself: A Path to Growth
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned as both an athlete and a coach is the importance of stepping outside myself—adopting a third-person perspective. When things weren’t working, I asked: What am I missing? What do I need to do differently? Drawing on my coaching experience and the wisdom of mentors, I became my own coach, analyzing setbacks and devising strategies for improvement. This process marked the beginning of true rebuilding.
Rebuilding: Know Your Why and Learn from Others
To rebuild, you must understand your own motivations and limitations. Sometimes, seeing yourself from an outside perspective—or seeking support from books, communities like Team Zoot, or inspiring individuals—can spark new growth. The journey is about lifting yourself after failure, reflecting on what went wrong, and getting back to work with renewed focus. It’s about repeating, but with intention and insight, because you know the effort is worth it.
Finding Strength in Unexpected Moments
Challenges don’t always announce themselves. This past fall, I faced another unexpected obstacle that made me question everything again: “Is all going to change? Can I come back?” And once more, the answer was the same—returning, again and again, is possible. The process of overcoming adversity, of returning once more, is not a single moment but an ongoing commitment to yourself.
Final Thoughts for Fellow Athletes and Coaches
Setbacks are inevitable, but they don’t define you. Acceptance, reconnecting with your essence, learning from failure, and coaching yourself are all tools you can use to rebuild stronger than before. Remember, the process is alive as long as you keep returning. Each time you rise, you become more resilient, more insightful, and more prepared for whatever comes next. Keep believing in your “why,” embrace the journey, and know that you are never alone in your drive to return once more.
Author – Anne Basso USAT L2 Coach, PRO Athlete, QT2 Systems LLC.