I was awesome.

Torrential downpour the entire day almost broke my spirit by the end of the bike. But I collected myself in T2, changed into dry clothes, thought about everyone cheering me on, and just couldn't utter the words "I'm done, I can't continue". So I put on my running shoes and headed back out into the rain for my marathon and that Ironman finish line.

It took my second Ironman to hear the words, but this time I heard them. "Amanda McGregor, you are an Ironman!".

That makes two for two. It was a completely different experience the second time. Different thoughts going through my head and I had to dig deeper to motivate myself to keep going, but I did and I finished and I had many moments out there that I truly enjoyed.

Thanks Gordon, Kate and Andy. I know it was a long, rainy day for you too, but seeing you out on the course kept my spirits high and drove me on to that finish line. Thank you.

IM back

Gordon sent me this cartoon strip on Friday. I thought it would be a fitting way to re-start this blog. Especially considering that I will be participating in "Australian Rules football in a washing machine" in slightly less than 3 weeks! It's a good thing my Dad is an Australian Rules football coach and that I grew up around football, learning how to use my elbows, etc. Good skills to have come July 20th in Lake Placid.

The training has been quite different this time around. To start with, I don't know of anyone else in Austin who is doing this race. Very different from the 30+ people that I went to Arizona with last year! So the training has been very solitary this time - I've had people to train with but never anyone doing my exact long ride and long run combination over the weekend, and no-one else to gauge my progress against. But I feel strong and ready and excited to do this race. Training through the heat, while very very tough, has only made me stronger, and I can't wait for cooler temperatures on race day! The very best part is that Gordon and Kate will both be in Lake Placid cheering me on! I can't wait.