Tri bike first Impressions...

[Lise]

Hi, Denise, Tracy, Melisa,

I really enjoy reading about why you want to do IMs, and seeing the pix. I agree that people who want to put us down about athletic endeavors should have no space in our lives. I went out on one date with a guy who, when I talked enthusiastically about my athletic adventures, asked "and how long have you been addicted?" I'm not addicted. I'm happy, I'm active, I'm free. I love the look on Melisa's face crossing the finish line--pure joy!

My dad died of brain cancer when I was five years old. He was an athlete and a teacher. When I told my aunt that I was slow but had endurance, she told me that my dad always said he should be timed with a calendar, not a watch. So it's a family trait! When I ran the 1/2 marathon in September, I had a strong sense of his presence. I had a shirt made for when I ran the Chicago Marathon two weeks later. On the back it said, "I run with my dad", and a picture of him as a young man. I can't tell you how much positive energy I got from other runners. I'll try to attach a picture...wow, small as I made that, it came out huge! OK, I'm kind of dim about these techy things.

Anyways, the next time someone expresses doubt about your iron-ability, you could say, "Yeah, I'm going on a 60/13 bike-run brick tomorrow. Wanna join me?" and leave them with a gaping mouth and walk away.

I'm wishing I could join you all in cheering for Denise in T-1, T-2, and at the finish line! I'll be there in spirit. L.