Holding it Together for IMCdA

[colby]

Yeah, that about sums it up. I realised today that I am getting the pre-race jitters. Since an Ironman is so long, the pre-race jitters start 2 weeks in advance.

So busy at work, finding time to train has been difficult, but I know I can do this. I just want to hear "you are an Ironman" again. I want to race. I want to have fun. I want to smile for the camera. I want to see "Chuck Norris never did an Ironman" signs. I want to see the Inspiration Station at mile you're-almost-there-but-not-quite where my friends always post messages for me that make me tear up (thinking about it makes me tear up). I want to dance with the people that party all afternoon for Ironman. I want to wave at the speedo-and-cape-wearing vuvuzela guy at the top of the big hill where the road stripes end halfway up and you're almost to the top but ha-ha, just kidding, there's more. I want to feel that feeling in your heart when the cannon fires and everything stops for just a second and you take in what's about to happen, then go elbow people. I want to say, BRING IT ON. I want to not get a sunburn. I want to think of all of you (and others) as I cross every timing mat, knowing that some of you refresh the page incessantly while you go about your day just like I do for some of you.

Saying it out loud helps. Thanks for being there, internet friends.

PS: Sorry for being scarce. I think of you guys often but can't always find the time.

[salsabike]

We'll be refreshing on that day, you may be sure! Best to you as always, Colby.

Bib number?

[colby]

We'll be refreshing on that day, you may be sure! Best to you as always, Colby.

Bib number?

Not yet not even an athlete guide yet. I'll post it as soon as I know.

Thanks!

ETA: Spoke too soon. #238 reporting for duty

[HillSlugger]

Race well!

[redrhodie]

What a great post, Colby! I can tell you have the legs, the brains, and the right attitude! You're going to do great!

[colby]

Thank you all.... 9 days, 12 hours

[salsabike]

And you have the HEART. A sort of understated/modest but real strength that I really enjoy hearing about.

[kacie tri-ing]

YES! I was hoping for a pre race post! Very excited for you!!!!

[Red Rock]

I love your descriptions of different aspects of the race. I have watched two IMSTG races now and reading your descriptions brought chills and excitement to me as I was reading. I hope your taper goes well.

May you have a great race with lots of cheering fans for you.

Just think of the food you will be able to eat afterward!

Red Rock

[GLC1968]

It's posts like this that make me want to do an IM! Damn you, Colby!

I will be watching #238. You will do just fine, you know. I'm so excited for you!! Best of luck!

[Tri Girl]

You'll do great!! It will be all that you dream of and all that you're wanting it to be. Just being out there again will do your soul good!

[katluvr]

You go girl! We know you can do it! And, like other said... you inspire me. I don't think I'll make it to doing an IM, but you still are inspiring (you and others that do these crazy races!).
Good luck, I'll be watching and waiting!

K

[spindizzy]

Yeah, that about sums it up. I realised today that I am getting the pre-race jitters. Since an Ironman is so long, the pre-race jitters start 2 weeks in advance.

It is appropriate that the jitters areproportiaonal to the race..you are too funny!

I love that your memories are keeping you focused on why you want to to this. It's the big things..and the little.

Go get your Ironman!

[colby]

Counting down. Holding pretty steady. Making lists, checking them twice. Lining things up. Trying not to second-guess anything, staying positive. Thinking in short sentences, clearly.

Yesterday's song of the day was Cake's "Going the Distance". Especially appropriate for those of us who race long after the winner has won, and the sun is setting.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__PU5CVSegg

I want a skunk to cheer me on, to pass a tiger, and for an elephant to hand me water.

[OakLeaf]

You will be awesome. Know it, feel it, be it.