Despite a tight, cramped up quad, I ventured out on my hour long ride yesterday in the hopes that it would loosen things up. Sure enough, the ride did loosen things up (HUGE sigh of relief!)and it also put me face to face with the 'Big Red 100'. Mile 100 of the bike is approximately 1/2 mile from the corner of Fitchrona and Whalen. It is spray painted in BIG RED numbers right on the road. As I rode over it, I thought 'So this is it. This is where I'll hit the 100 mile mark on the bike'. At that point, I'm sure my feet will hurt, my legs will be sore and I'll just be looking forward to giving my bike away at the point. It really hit home when I saw that - Ironman is here. There's no escaping it now...it's gonna happen. The writing is 'on the road'.
This morning my nerves really jump started. I drove along John Nolen drive towards the start of the swim course. Gatorade hosts morning swim practices of the course where athletes can take a test drive of the swim course. The big orange buoys were out and MAN - are they far apart! In reality, it's no further than any of the half IM's I've done. I was just surprised by how far apart the buoys looked. This is it...holy cow, I'm doing Ironman!
I headed for the swim start and a bunch of athletes had already gathered. I was fortunate to have many friends and training partners down there to ease the nerves and fuel the excitement. The water was choppy this morning as we are expecting some storms, but this is good practice! The first half of the loop flew by and as I turned the corner for the 2nd half of the loop everything slowed down. The water got choppier and it seemed like forever to that last buoy. I got there though and headed into shore feeling more excited and comfortable than when I started.
So, now I am headed for registration in just under an hour. Once I have that under my belt, it's really official. Ready or not Ironman, here I come! I will be joined in the registration experience by my friends Jesse and Steve - all first timers!
Even the weather seems like it's going to cooperate on Sunday....(I hope I'm not eating those words come Sunday)!
I'll be posting final race thoughts and thank yous tonight. The countdown to IM Wisconsin 2007 continues....2 days 20 hours and counting!
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