You really get to know someone when wearing spandex.

My wardrobe consists of 3 things: business suits (with shirts and ties), jeans & t-shirts, and various tri-gear made of spandex and other moisture-wicking material.  That's it.  I'm not a "clothes" guy, in that i'm either dressed very professionally in a modern cut suit or i'm wearing shorts.  I have no casual clothes, and am not into fashion...but i'm always cognizant of how i look in certain company, and try not to "offend" anyone with my various tattoos.  This was always an issue when i would meet clients to play golf: there is no way to explain why you're wearing long-sleeves on a 95 degree day or why your legs are silky smooth.  Fortunately, that changed when i refocused my business development to the world of triathlon: there is just no way to hide ANYTHING when you're wearing spandex!

I have to say that the best relationships i have formed or are in the process of forming, have come from people i have trained & raced with.  It is at that point...when you strip down to your "speedos", that you are fully exposed for anyone to see.  But it is at that point, that your level of comfort with someone is solidified.  There is no judging, no assumptions, no guessing...your true-self is wide open.  Whether you're a high powered attorney, a ceo of a fortune 500 company, or a stay-at-home mom, there is no where to hide in spandex.  Triathletes come in all different shapes, sizes, and ages, but at the end of the day, we're all working just as hard at training and at life, regardless of how we look.

Our sport doesn't require collared-shirts or long pants or jackets to be a part.  We are a sport where uniqueness is not only welcome, it is encouraged!  The crazier the colors, the better.  Fluorescent green and hot pink are our uniform.  But regardless, there is no judgement and no shame.  We are all equal and all are welcome.  I believe it is the bond of seeing 98% of someone's body that makes the business relationships i have ones that will last forever.  Next time you're sharing a swim lane with your speedo-brethren, take a guess at what that person does for a living...i guarantee that you'll have no idea b/c on the course, we're all equal.  Don't be shy...strip down to your spandex...show us your true-self; you'll be surprised who you meet and the relationships you form!