Ironman Arizona - TriathlonFull Ironman

Was really worried about the mass start but aside from the first 50-75 yards where there was a lot of contact and traffic - my position on the right about 25 feet from the wall was good. Traffic thinned out and was able to get the heart rate down and get my head down and swim properly. Had a good swim to the the turn. On the back segment started cramping in my hamstrings - if I kicked a bit more I found I could keep them looser. With the ASU stadium on the left it seemed I was going nowhere kept seeing that dang stadium - felt I was not making progress - finally seemed to be moving slowly past it - got a little frustrated here - had to get my emotions under control. Was very glad to see the exit stairs.

Nothing. I was happy with the swim. Neoprene cap, ear plugs and booties was a good call for me. I was never cold while in the water. After the wetsuit was off was another story - was really cold going to the changing tent - grabbed a mylar blanket someone dropped - wow those things really work.

Took what seemed like forever in the tent - was really cold - guy next to me was saying something but his teeth were chattering so much I couldn't understand a word. Decided on a technical T under my bike jersey - might have been the best decision of the day - also arm warmers.

Practice while cold? Went ok - At least I had everything in my bag - just could have been faster getting everything on.

Was really glad for some sun to warm up. Was excited to get going on the bike. after the turnaround really flew - no wind - felt great to moving! Little did I realize that the next 2 laps would not be so easy. The win started to pick up on the 2 and 3rd laps - always seemed to have a head or cross wind - was never at my back - how is this possible I wondered on an out and back course. I was trying to keep each split about the same time - but knew I was getting slower. Was happy to see the 100 mile marker. the last 12 miles seemed to take a while though- was glad to get off the bike!

Really went pretty well - I was the right temperature I had put tape on the tops of my bike shoes to block the ventilation holes and never took it off - my feet were a good temperature and very little numbness that had been an issue in the past. Nothing really - no flats - was happy about that. I had thought about renting race weels but doubt at my speed 15 mph avg would make much difference.

Seemed to take forever - took a long time to get my compression gear on - but might have really saved me. On jogging out realized I forgot my hat - had to go back and get it - I was a bit out of it mentally.


Lube my legs to make it easier to get the compression gear on.

I was really happy how my legs felt jogging/running felt good. 13 miles went well - starting to suffer by mile 17. Met Elijah and Lauren - they were awesome to talk with and we kept each other company for a few miles - Lauren split off to use the porta-potty and Elijah and I kept going at a fast walk - we could both walk pretty fast and were able to pass a lot of people who were doing the Ironman shuffle. Having Elijah to finish with was huge - it kept the mood positive.

Not sure - gave it everything. Had real stomach issues at mile 13-17. Glad I had immodium with me. Probably need to switch from gels to other things earlier. Almost tossed my cookies after a gel (that sweet-taste) on mile 14 or so.

For my age 52 and my health - a pacemaker - I was very pleased to finish.

Quad strength and bike speed and run post 13 mile nutrition I would list could be improved.


A great experience - a year of planning and 6 months of training - but I can say I am an Ironman!