Empathizing with my dysfunctional and magnetic pull with Ironman, Kelly recently (and graciously) provided her nod of approval of my request to sign-up for another full distance triathlon. So, with her endorsement in hand, I promptly registered for what will be my fifth full distance tri – the 2010 Ironman Couer d’Alene (IMCDA).
My good buddies Bill and John will also partake in the event; their presence upping the ante, adding additional purpose to this race.
Bill, John and I are longtime pals, but as Bill lives in Charlotte and John in Chicago, I do not get to see either often and it will be great to spend four or five days with them next June. In an attempt to create additional drama and other nonsense during the race build-up, the three of us will especially enjoy what is sure to be an abundant exchange of trash-talking throughout the next year. I cannot wait.
Previously, the three of us competed together at IMCDA in 2006 and this time around things should be quite different for all. That ’06 race was Bill’s first crack at the Ironman distance and his focus, wisely, was simply to finish feeling good. John had a broken toe which limited his superb bike power and reduced his otherwise strong run to an awkward walk. Not to be spared, I suffered incredibly in the oven-like temperatures, the heat reducing my effort to pathetic at itmes.
Redemption was had in 2008 however as the three of us regrouped once again, this time at Ironman Wisconsin, an endeavor proving to be a great success as each of us crossed the finish line feeling good and with personal best times in hand. Looking ahead towards 2010 IMCDA, I am expecting another solid day for all of us, especially Bill. While still the Ironman baby of our trio, he has now twice finished the race and and will come armed with tremendous experience and confidence in his ability to conquer the 140.6 mile course.
After IM Wisconsin. John and Bill with me - the tallest and fastest
(photo courtesy of John)
As one would expect, at both IMCDA and Wisconsin, I consistently prove to be the better athlete (such status was never largely debated), bettering the times of both John and Bill. I expect to once again sit atop the podium and will enjoy watching Bill and John battle to be first loser.
Boys, you had better bring your A-game, cuz I intend to bring the heat in about 10:45.
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2 comments:
You must be passing your idle days by smoking some of the herbs that grow abundantly in the Pacific northwest.
10:45? You haven't made peace with the suffering. You will be lucky to come close to your IMWI time but regardless I will have a cold beverage waiting for you when you eventually cross.
Well, it's good to see that the running commentary has begun. I'm going to adopt a more zen-like approach to the upcoming endeavor, and channel my energies into proper training for the bike and run.
Fazul, I wish you well in your pursuit of 10:45. Just be standing by the finish with a milkshake in hand for me because my goal is a less lofty 12:00.
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