Last month Alan completed his second Half Ironman triathlon in Augusta, GA.
It was a gorgeous weekend and his parents came down to help us celebrate the occassion.
We headed to Augusta Saturday morning so that Alan had plenty of time to get himself and all of his gear ready and checked in.
We've been to lots of races, big events, small ones, all female, new race companies, established race companies, all types and sizes, however going to an Ironman sanctioned race makes you realize why the name Ironman holds so much esteem.
There is something about an event with over 3000 athletes competing at that distance that alone could impress you, however get the Ironman name in there and it's quite the production! Almost like the races you see on TV. What? You don't watch Triathlons on TV?
Saturday was the typical race preparation and carb-loading for Alan, the rest of us just watched and took it all in. This was the first race where I have been solely a spectator and didn't race at all. Honestly, I didn't enjoy it nearly as much as racing but I loved cheering Alan on and spending time with his parents.
Sunday morning came and brought cool temps. Right as Alan's group was getting in the water it started to sprinkle but thankfully it didn't last long. He finished the swim in record time and before we knew it he was out on the bike. That left us with the time span of 56 miles to wait for Alan to come back to where we could see him again. So, we had breakfast and wondered around downtown Augusta (which we were pretty dissapointed in). Before long Alan came through on the run and it started to get hot. I think it hit 90 that day, which combined with the morning rain, made for a steamy afternoon. The run course was a two loop through downtown, so we actually got to see him 4 times over the course of the 13.1 mile run. Then we ran to the finish line to see him come in.
He finished in 5 hours and 38 minutes, looking as strong as ever as he crossed the finish line. I've never seen him look so happy when finishing a race and I think the photo below is one of my favorite race photos ever.
It was another great race day at the Reed house. It's such a fun thing to be part of and so inspirational to observe. It reminds you that anyone can do anything they put their mind to.
So now he has 2 Half Ironman's under his belt. 2 halves may not make a whole in the world of Ironman but they sure are pretty impressive!
Here are more of the photos from the day:
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| October 9, 2011 |
1 comment:
I think it is amazing what you and Alan have accomplished with your racing. The dedication and commitment has been incredible.
Whether or not 2 half Ironmans makes a whole or not, having done 2 of them is very, very impressive...congratulations Alan !!
Randy
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