Yep, the training has officially begun for Ironman Texas which is May 21, 2011. We started the middle of September doing some sort training six days a week: Saturday to Thursday, with Friday being some make-up day. It has been interesting to say the least. The trick has been to fit in training with work and bowling and other commitments (races, parties). I have seen some improvements already: I have been able to go better on the bike, I feel better on the run and can hold a bit better pace. As far as the swim, I went to the International Swimming Hall of Fame and met with Swim and Tri Coach John Acton and after two sessions have made great strides (pun somewhat intended).

So this past weekend I had the pleasure of witnessing Larry Kagan and Gary King compete the 2010 Great Floridian Ultra Distance Triathlon (2.4m swim, 112m bike, 26.2m run). I have seen several years of Kona Ironman, and of course competed and volunteered for a few triathlons. But there is something different about watching when some of your best friends attempt one of the greatest physical challenges (other than a double-ultra or triple-ultra) and you are there to witness it. I have to admit that I was a bit teary-eyed when the horn sounded to start the race, and even when the two of them came around to start their second loop of the swim, it was like the start of the race. We actually had signed up for a “super” sprint (200yd swim, 8m bike, 2m run) which started after the ultra and intermediate competitors had finished their swim legs. So while the two of them were out on their bikes, we finished in under an hour. So after that we went out to work one of the water tents on the bike course; it was a three loop course so we got to see Larry and Gary at least once. Later that day we set up camp on the run course, which also was a three loop course.

When Larry came into view at the end of his last lap and was about to head to the chute, I can not describe the feeling. I remember when he said months ago that he was only go to do sprints. I also remember when he started doing Olympic distances. And then he decided to sign up the Great Floridian and everything changed: he made strides in running, got crazy on his bike, and stroked his swim endurance. He did have a few setbacks, mostly with his run training and injuries. But knowing what he went through, seeing him come into view to finish was truly emotional. I can say the same thing was going on with some of the other people in the group as most of us ran to the finish line screaming his name. It was, for lack of better term, inspirational. Knowing what I have been able to do in to this point, gives me hope that Texas will be possible.

Congratulations to Lawrence Kagan and Gary King!!!