I think it's amazing how people's lives evolve and change. We have the ability to change our careers, become healthier, make a difference in our communities, or influence others to change or try something they thought wasn't possible. I'm amazed at some of the stories I read about IRONMAN athletes that were once overweight or overcame insurmountable obstacles to get where they are today. Or the 70+ year old athletes that come back to Kona year after year and inspire us with their dedication and passion for the sport. Maybe that's why I love training and racing in triathlons. This year I was selected as one of the 40 athletes that are part of the IRONMAN Foundation-Newton Running Ambassador Triathlon Team for the 2013 race season. Through this team I will be engaged in serving others through community service projects, fundraising and raising awareness of the goals and mission of the IRONMAN foundation.
My story isn't inspirational. I'm just an average age group athlete trying to set higher goals and be a more competitive athlete but I thought I'd share a little bit about myself so others on the Ironman Foundation Newton Ambassador Triathlon Team could understand a little more about me. I considered myself athletic in high school, playing softball and tennis but I quickly went into the field of engineering and had a full career as a director at a healthcare company until I decided at the age of 39 to stay home and enjoy my kids before they grew up. I had two friends that had completed multiple marathons and enjoyed telling me all about their races and adventures in training. That was enough to plant the seed in my head that I wanted to sign up and train for a marathon. I finished my first marathon in Chicago that year and qualified for Boston (I had no idea I was a fast runner!). The same friend that introduced me to marathons also influenced me to buy my first road bike and sign up for a sprint triathlon. There were so many things that I learned from her as well as having an amazing friend that continues to support and cheer for me through all my crazy races! Within 2 years of completing my first marathon, I managed to influence my friend to complete both a half and full distance IRONMAN with me. I do fully believe that we don't realize how much we have an influence on others, not only our friends but also the example we set for our children.
In 2011, I signed up for the Kona lottery and also signed up my friend...like who wouldn't want to go to Kona after completing their first IRONMAN??? It was a surprise gift for Christmas. Nothing like a nice Christmas card with a Kona lottery entry enclosed inside! I think we both thought there wasn't a chance that either of us would get in. But come April 2012, her name was listed on the lottery selection announcement. Initially, I thought she might burn my house down but she went on to remain my friend (lucky me) and complete Kona last year. Through that process, we started fundraising for the IRONMAN Foundation's "Your Journey, Your Cause" program and together raised over $9,000 for Renew Hope, Inc. After starting this 5 years ago, I've completed 14 marathons, 3 IRONMAN 70.3 races along with 2 full IRONMANs. I continue to learn new things about myself and the sport every day. For me, this is my motivation and passion for life.
"We don't stop playing because we are old; we grow old because we stop playing". I really feel that the sport of triathlon will continue to be part of my life for a very long time.
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