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.

Morning Swimming

I really enjoy swimming in the morning, although it's tough getting up at 5am. Fortunately this morning wasn't very cold, and despite Gordon's best efforts at pretending he was still asleep and feeling too tired and wanting to have a lie in, I made us get up and swim. I think he's thanking me for it now! It was one of those long, wear you down, kind of swim sets. Long pull sets and long swim sets. I didn't mind the long swim sets, but today the long pull sets were wearing me down. I'm definitely noticing some improvement in my stroke, I feel stronger and faster and more efficient. Thanks Maurice and Chrissie!

Now that we got up early and swam it means we have the whole evening ahead of us, yippee! I see risotto, red wine, and Christmas tree decorating in my future...