Officially Signed Up For IMFL - 363 Days To Go

Well, its now official, today I was able to secure a spot on-line to race at Ironman Florida next year on Nov 6, 2010!  Its a pretty exciting moment, because I wasn't sure spots would even become available, as in previous years all the spots have been taken "on site" by people who are physically in Florida to sign up.  Last year, it went on-line and the extra spots were sold out in 15 minutes!  Knowing this, I was at the computer, ready to jump when/if  it opened up.  At 1pm, the link to register became active and I pressed the button to start the registration.  Jodie was by my side as I filled out the form - it was great to see she that she was so excited for me as well! 

I am not alone in preparing for IM Florida next year.  As I received my confirmation for registration, at around 1:05 p.m. my phone rang - it was my uncle.  Both he and another friend had also secured spots to race as well!  We were pretty excited, so we all went out tonight with our families to celebrate the moment.  They are both racing for their own reasons and goals.  For my uncle, Florida will be his 5th Ironman.  He has a big year planned next year, as he is also doing his 4th Ironman in Lake Placid in July.  Why 2 in 1 year?  Because he can, and because it will "catch him up" with me to give him 5 Ironman races completed as well.  My friend Kathy will be doing her 2nd Ironman.  She is hoping to improve on her performance from her first one 2 years ago. It is always nice have friends who are racing.  Its great to be able to check in on each other during the long journey of preparing for an Ironman race.   

Well, my journey is well under way and now the destination is clear.  The goal now is to stay healthy and train consistent, hard, and smart.  I will have to push myself to the limits and build each month on the previous one to get to the level I hope for.  Actually, right now my attitude is that "Anything is Possible".  I followed the race yesterday (on-line) and the athletes were really fast.  When I looked at the results, I was met with some doubt and discouragement wondering if I too could really get to that level.  Honestly I don't know, but I can't worry about how fast other guys are, all I can do is control my own efforts and training.  So today I woke up and thought maybe I can or maybe I can't, but one thing is for sure - this year I will give it my all and I will see where that gets me.  

Anything is Possible, 

Jon