My annual second Monday of September off-topic post.
Yesterday, I competed in Ironman Wisconsin for the fourth-straight year and became a four-time Ironman. I completed the event (a 2.4 mile swim, a 112 mile bike and a 26.2 mile run) in 12 hours and 5 minutes. A podium finish it was not, but it was my second best time in the event.
Why Ironman?
To those who have done it, you know, but it is hard to explain.
For me the answer is as follows.
There are currently people who are physically unable, or practically unable given their circumstances in life – to do an Ironman. But I am capable at the present moment.
Moreover, there will come a day in which I will be unable to do an Ironman, but that day has not yet arrived and god-willing will not arrive for some time. But I am capable at the present moment.
Ironman is obviously a physical test, but a mental and emotional journey just the same. It takes determination to get to the finish line as well as courage to put yourself at the starting line. For me, Ironman is a place to channel my competitive juices and accomplish a cathartic cleanse each year. Each year, during the physical, mental and emotional journey that is Ironman, I learn something new about myself, my life, and those around me that I might not have learned but for putting myself through the journey.
Thanks for listening and tomorrow we will return to the regularly-scheduled program.
