Monday, November 24, 2008

Ironman Arizona

Susan Dickson of Grand Junction Colorado was in Tempe Town Lake Park, less than a 1/4 mile from the finish when midnight struck. She doesn't get to call herself an Ironman (unless she was one already) and she is considered DNF or DID NOT FINISH.

This is her turning the corner on Rio Salado Blvd and heading toward the finish line. I heard Mike Riley say over the loud speaker, "We have one more runner. She's not officially an Ironman, but we know she is."

Her story is one of thousands of great one's on this day. I watched the final 3-4 hours at the finish line and it was truly amazing. I took a bunch of pictures that you can see on my Facebook page. I cheered, gave high fives and marveled at what these total strangers did the entire time I was there. If you get a chance to see an Ironman event live, I would encourage you to do so. It's amazing.

So, like so many people do while watching these athletes. I made a vowel. Next year. I am going to be back in the stands with as many friends as I can find, cheering these athletes on to victory. It was more fun than any pro sports event.

What? You think I'm crazy enough to want to swim, bike and run for 140.6 miles?



10 comments:

Unknown said...

I think they made the right decision to move the race to November. They had perfect weather this time instead of the heat and wind of the April race.

Unknown said...

The spirit of the day is simply infectious isnt it?

Marathoner in Training said...

I am glad that you are not considering ruining a perfectly good marathon with a swim and bike warmup.

Nikemom said...

Have a great Thanksgiving Pat!

Nikemom said...

p.s. I'm going to invite you to be my friend on Facebook. Sweet deal??? :)

Viv said...

What a tough one to take. Maybe just maybe I will grow a set and you can cheer me on...

J~Mom said...

Oh man, I cannot imagine getting that close and then having midnight strike! Good for her though for sticking it out!!

Anonymous said...

wow, how inspirational!

Darrell said...

Oh, to be so close.

I too enjoy watching these events. The human drama is great.

Jeff said...

Can't imagine being on that course for 17 hours and winding up 1/4 hour short.