Ironmen in the Making

 
Every couple of years Michael gets the bug to do a BIG race. You know, a race that takes, like, 14 hours to finish. In our household, this race is the Ironman Triathlon.

In 2008, Michael finished his first Ironman in Louisville.

In 2010, he was Ironman (x2) after conquering Ironman Canada.

In 2012, he's aiming for this third Ironman Finish back in Louisville on Sunday.

Seriously, what makes anybody want to swim 2.4 miles, then ride a bike for 112 miles (ouch!), and then start running a 26.2 mile marathon is beyond me! But, honestly, I love that he puts himself up for the challenge. This man has more heart and endurance and stamina and sheer determination to finish a race than anyone I know. On his first marathon, he wasn't prepared and wanted to quit six different times over those miles. But he didn't. He instead took a beer that a spectator was offering (can you blame him?) and walked/limped those last several miles. On his first Ironman he found his brother dehydrated on the curb and gave up on his own finishing time to help him, and they finished together.

This year, he'll admit he's the least prepared for this race. He may not even be able to finish. With our move, our summer travel, a 2-year old 2-and-a-half year old plus a baby on the way,  he didn't get his training to where he wishes it was. But you know what? He'll be at the start line on Sunday morning despite that. And I love him for that. He'll go as far as he can, and if it's to the finish line, it will be his biggest accomplishment. If it's only to Mile 80 on the bike, then he'll change his clothes and be back out there cheering on his brothers and friend. He'll make the most of the day, whatever it may hold.

We'll also be cheering on brother-in-law Josh, going for his first Ironman finish (and we know he'll Rock it!), our buddy Rich going for his 2nd finish, and Michael's brother Kevin, also his third finish.

My fellow spectators and I will plan our day, mapping out where we can see them on the course to boost their morale. We'll be decked out in our custom-made t-shirts and armed with signs to show our support. It will be a long day and a late night, which will make for a really long Monday, too, but it will be so worth it. To witness the triumphs is unlike anything else. If you've never been to a race, especially one of this size, go. The atmosphere is electric and watching finisher after finisher, all different ages and sizes, some strong while others struggle, is incredibly moving. You can't help but think, if she can do this, I could, too. {And then I convince myself that I could if I really want to. But I don't really want to. Ever. But good for them!}

So if you're reading this today or tomorrow (Race Day), say a quick prayer for all the tremendous athletes out there in the Louisville sun and hills going for their own glory -- please, no flat tires, no wardrobe or equipment malfunctions, no injury or illness. It takes a lot just to sign up for the event. Showing up on race day takes even more guts. After that, it's training and nutrition and a lot of lonely miles from start to end.

And they are all my heroes for it.