Denise, you are an incredible athlete. The weather and the extraordinary circumstances (an Ironman is a test of endurance that I cannot even conceive of completing, myself) conspired against you. There's a time limit. That's all. Probably a good thing--keeps people from continuing on when they should stop. Remember Triflor and her IM at Lake Placid? You two are in a proud sisterhood of those who truly gave it their all. You did all but a bit--and got no medal, no glory, no hoo-haas. But you have the unending respect of hundreds of people throughout the country and across the world. Bask in that today. And recover. You are a champion. (((RM)))