Ironman Wisconsin Part 4 6 Ironmans in One Year is complete

Keith and West Coast Jen arrived back at the hotel after their last supper around 8:30 and Brad set up an interview area up on the top floor of the Hotel Sheraton as they provided us with a well lit area for us to film our final thoughts before our last Ironman along with what our significant others felt as well.




This was the last thing we did before retiring for the evening one final time to prepare for the day of PAIN.....not sure if it's the best idea but it is important to record it so we all met to share our final thoughts on our journey prior to race day. Keith and I sat and listened to both West Coast Jen and East Coast Jen share their thoughts about what they've been through this past few years. It was pretty amazing to listen as people close to you share their feelings on what you've done and the impact that it's had on others. I also realized just how lucky I was to have my wife by my side and the greatest family and friends one could ever want.



I don't think I will write about what Keith and I shared we will save that for a short video clip that Brad can post. We wrapped up for the evening and said our good nights. We would be getting up in five hours or so to start the morning routine before the race.



I woke up at 3:30 AM got some coffee and a little breakfast. My morning meditation on my knees to ask my higher power for help as I always do. Took a shower by this time Jen had awoken and I'd come out of the bathroom and started the first application of body glide. I went through my morning bag to make sure my wetsuit goggles and swim cap were there I then took my timing chip attached to the Velcro strap and then placed it on my left leg near my ankle. All systems are go we headed down to the lobby to meet Keith Jen and Brad. We all headed down to the venue. Parking area we had used all week was closed so Keith and I jumped out as we had to do our last minute checks on our bikes and our transition bags. Brad followed us as well so that he could videotape us. Basically at this time five or 5:30 AM there are literally thousands of racers and their families doing exactly the same thing as we are and the anxiety and energy levels are incredible. Once Keith and I had completed all of our tasks we called the girls and met them near the swim start. It was about 6 AM so we had plenty of time before the 7 AM gun goes off.



Our friends Jim and Bonnie Whetstone and Bernadette and her boyfriend showed up about 6:30 AM and it appeared to us that they were as excited as we were and we took many photos together. Keith and I said our goodbyes to everyone in headed in with the other 2406 athletes to the mass swim start. I am not a fast swimmer so I stayed near the edge and positioned myself back right of the crowd let would not be caught up in the washing machine of madness that I have experienced in many other Ironmans. Before Keith headed into the water we shared a good moment as we usually do prior to each race as we looked at each other the reality that this was the final race of this journey hit me and I'm sure him in a similar way. We hugged and wished each other luck and as Keith is a fast swimmer he headed into the water. I still remained off to the side and waved at our roadies standing together near the Jumbotron. As I awaited the gun sound a young volunteer spoke with me and I asked him if he was excited and he was. He couldn't have been more than 18 years old and he asked me how I was feeling and I told him good and also about our 6-ironmans in one year that this was the final one. I also told him I hope to see him at the finish! Mike Reilly introduced the national anthem singer and we all quietly listened in the first gun went off at 6:45 AM and the pros begin their day. Our start would happen at 7 AM. As I looked at my watch and I looked at my friends and I took in the whole spectacle I still could not believe that I'd come to this moment ready to finish the journey that many thought would be impossible.....including some of my closest friends and family doubted even one of us would make it this far never mind both of us. Keep in mind none of these friends and family actually told us this much but Keith and I both knew. I looked down at my watch again it said 6:59 AM and I felt like it was an eternity in it was so peaceful and serene and I knew in a moment that would change. As the clock struck 7 AM the gun went off the churning of the water had begun 2406 bodies began a journey of many moments that would change their lives forever. It is a Magical Day!



To be continued....