Ironman FLA - Excitement Builds!

I can't help but put a post out here for fellow teammate, Julie, and former teammate, Courtney, as they are just hours away from their FIRST IRONMAN! (Courtney on the right, Julie on the left - picture taken at the 1/2 IM we did in Innsbrook, MO back in Septebmer)
I've watched these gals train all year. I raced with them a few times, including our Half Ironman trip to Innsbrook. They are ready, and I cannot wait to watch the excitement unfold throughout the day Sunday.

Here's a picture Julie sent to my phone today - her comment was "something for you to look forward to, a mountain of GU!"
I've been thinking about them and the race all week. Honestly my stomach does flip-flops at the thought, 'cause in 8 months I'll be experiencing the excitement, anticipation, anxiety, doubt, fear, etc. that these two gals are dealing with now.

Here's the deal folks...I'll get up Sunday morning and check the website. I'll see that they have started the race. I'll go to church, come home, check the website and they will be done swimming and out on the bike. I'll eat my lunch, nap, and whatever else my afternoon activities entail, check the website - they'll STILL be on the bike! I'll go to choir practice late afternoon and to the evening service, come home, check the website and they'll STILL be racing! They will likely be about 1/2 way or so through the run portion - a marathon - 26.2 long miles! I'll get all my gear together for Monday's workout/work, load my car, watch some tv, check the website and THEY...WILL...STILL...BE...RACING. I'll stay up a little later than usual for a Sunday night - glued to the website - waiting for the big finale. I just wouldn't miss it. I'll likely be crying, 'cause I always cry when I watch the IM races on Versus...what's up with that?

Thinking of an Ironman in this manner truly puts in perspective the accomplishment. You are racing for an entire day. You are racing longer than a normal workday. You are working out for 10, 12, 15 HOURS!

Any way you slice it, it's a long day, and it's admirable to chase the Ironman dream. I'll be cheering for you gals...and "watching" you. Best of luck, be safe, race hard, and finish strong!!!