14:41:41
Monday, September 10, 2007
That's the time it took me to swim 2.4 miles, bike 112, and run a marathon yesterday. I'm crazy happy today, and am still having a hard time wrapping my head around the fact that a) I really did this; b) I don't have to figure out how to fit a 3 to 4-hour workout tomorrow -- or ever again if I so choose; and c) that this thing I've been focused on and working toward for more than a year is, in fact, over.
So, for the time being, I'm just letting it all sink in.
At some point, I'll post a full race report. Until then, I want to say a simple, but deeply heartfelt "Thank You" to everyone who was out there with me yesterday -- in person and in spirit -- to those athletes that I covered the miles with, to my amazing amazing amazing support crew, to all those who sent emails and texts and good thoughts my way.
I might have been able to cover the distance on my own, but it never would have been as fulfilling or special a journey as all of you made it. For the entire day yesterday, I couldn't stop smiling (honestly, there were a few spectators who repeatedly referred to me as "The Smiling Girl" whenever I rode by) because my thoughts kept alternating between two things: 1) Oh my god, I'm doing an IRONMAN!; and 2) How did I happen into this amazing life?
At one point, I thought that everyone should have the chance to do this, just to see how incredible that kind of support feels. Then I realized that doing that much in one day was most idea's person of hell. Honestly, though, there are very few days in my life in which I've had so much fun -- really. And you are the reason why. I can only hope that yesterday was, for all of you, an iota of the fun that I had.
So, thank you, thank you, thank you...even though those words are not nearly enough.
Posted by Erin 3:43 PM
I can't wait to have THAT feeling again ;-)
Yes, get around to that full race report someday, K?
Enjoy your IronMan status -- I know I am (layed down the last bit of cash at the IronMan store today - time for the cash outlay to end).
Recover well.
It was great meeting you during the entire weekend, and how I picked you out on that hill I will never know..
Great race time and you had great race. Congrats again
Jill (mel's friend) and Mike
Iron(wo)man Erin!! I saw you a few times on the course and you looked wonderful - all your hard work paid off! Is there another IM in your future???
I had a lot of fun chasing you along your route by car! I'm glad you enjoyed the experience. Next up -- G-dog's day in the ring. I'll be there in yellow with signs again cheering you on.
I'm so proud of you. Not only Sunday but the entire last year. You did the work every day and earned the title ironman.
And that makes me smile.
YOU ARE AN IRONMAN!!!!
Congratulations, girl! I'm so very proud of how you did on Sunday!
You are an IRONMAN!!!