T minus 47 hours!

I'm glad to be back In Lake Placid for Ironman #5! I love the time with my sister, family, friends, and the electric energy leading up to race day. There is something addictive about the way I feel at this time each year!


I want to take this opportunity to share a bit about how I'm feeling about my race this year, & why.

All triathletes race for personal reasons. We all set goals, some of which we share with the world, others we keep to ourselves. Many people race Ironman to compete with others, achieve a slot in the world championship in Kona, or for a PR. I race with the intention of doing my best, and feeling I've left it all on the course.

I began this training cycle with my beloved Coach Krista, intending to do big things this year at Ironman. As spring unfolded, and the chaotic nature of life with a busy young family, volunteer commitments, & starting a new Tri club gained momentum, it became clear to me that a PR this year would not be in the cards.

My goals for this race are: A) FINISH. B) NO INJURIES. C) ENJOY THE DAY.

I trained smart and well last year, and for the first time set a goal in terms of time, and unfortunately failed. I struggled with a stomach bug both the day before and during IM. The physical pain and discomfort of that day and the 2 weeks that followed has not been forgotten. I have been feeling apprehensive about this race as a result, as I vividly remember the battle that was Ironman 2011. Fortunately, my friend and fellow Ironman Tom Impelliteri (who is also racing Sunday), called recently, & imparted words of wisdom which I knew, but had forgotten: "You just don't know what will happen on race day." Regardless of how well or poorly we train, you really can't control much of what happens once the gun goes off.

I am going to enjoy the day, take it all in, and look for my "people" when I need a boost along the journey of the day. I will do my very best, and when you see me, I will have a smile on my face. This is what I love to do, I just needed to remind myself!

Sent from my iPhone