It seems like last week that I created this blog and had this pipe dream of becoming an Ironman. I fell in love with triathlon and true to my driving spirit, I wanted to go to the 'holy grail'- pushing my body through 140.6 miles. At one point I had a revelation that running was so terribly painful that I would just 'do a Half Ironman' and that would suffice. I mean 70.3 with Ehlers Danlos is an accomplishment right?
Of course that would not suffice. 2 months after the Providence half, I completed and WON the Athena division for Chesapeakeman Aquavelo. That is 2.4 mile swim and 112 mile bike. And I did it in a time that would ALLOW me to do a full Ironman!
It seems like yesterday that I booked a flight and went by myself to volunteer for Ironman Florida 2012. I had the time of my life, met some amazing people with whom I now share this un-explainable bond!
I had surgery in Feb and put me about 1 month behind my schedule. BUT, a breast reduction was basically prep for IM anyway! In April I was ready to go. I racked up the miles, swim, bike and run. I went through several cycles of hating one sport or another. At one point I actually didn't "hate" running. (that didn't last long).
I pretty much stopped talking to anyone that wasn't involved in the sport in someway. Not that I don't love you non-athletes, but there is "sleeping, working, and working out" and if you aren't in one of those categories, there wasn't much time. I promise I'll get to you in January, thank you for your patience :).
I slacked on my blog. I would have thought I would post weekly at least, but there was no time. Ugh, Time. No one can REALLY understand how scheduled a life can be until you try to train for an Ironman.
I have almost entered the full taper. My workouts are shorter. By shorter, I mean a 50 mile bike ride and a 12 mile run! I am starting to have time. This time is spent scouring the internet and commiserating with others about to do this same thing.. Ironman Florida!
I keep looking at videos of the races. Each bring up so much emotion. Excitement, elation, fear, anxiety, and most of all- awe. Yes AWE, I cannot believe I'm so close to attempting this goal!
Each video adds a little more to the excitement. I am so close. There is nothing else I can do, the training is behind me. I can only prepare for my 17 hour day.
I look forward to having many of you behind me, I look forward to hearing "Laura Backus, YOU ARE AN IRONMAN"..
**Like my page on facebook to follow me on Race day*
I did IMFL in 2012 as my first as well! I am excited to read your race report. You go girl!
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