FEATURES

Iron Watching

Thursday, 12 September 2013 19:10

Ironman Wisconsin is a fabulous race to watch. With the swim, transition, finish and much of the run all within walking distance it is easy logistically for both athletes and spectators. This year the athletes lucked out with a cool and overcast race day.

I worked with Ken Glah’s Endurance Sports Travel for the weekend helping athletes get around town. This was a great experience...

The NBC team came up from Mexico with a contingent 24 athletes. Their team spirit before and during the race was impressive. Everyone gave a smile when we yelled ‘NBC!’ during the race.

Watching Wisconsin is special because there are so many Minnesotans to spot and support. You see some athletes putting together a great race and many overcoming challenges along the way. People who are crushing it probably don’t need nearly as much encouragement. People who are struggling can definitely use a good shout out. I am always most impressed with athletes who hit a spot of bother but work through it and rally.

My part-time friend, part-time athlete and part-time evil twin Sam and I were thrilled to see our friend Jared rebound from a low, low place. Coming through half way Jared was barely running and looking dejected and haggard. He managed to come through the GI distress he was experiencing and snap back to full-on running. While his day was far from best case scenario the fact that he bounced back shows the spirit of Ironman and with his second half rally he was still able to set a personal best time. Jared, everything I said and yelled at you on the course is 100% true.

Sam and I managed to see both the first and last finishers of the day and both ends of the day are inspiring. MORE