IRONMAN - June 21st

"You are surrounded, yet so alone. Alone to plan and dream to hope and pray. The day to come will have it all. The highest highs and the lowest lows. The fact that it's hard is what makes it special. It's also what makes it the Ironman."

The key to solving the Ironman puzzle is simple. To win is to finish. . . and to finish is to win!

2.4 Mile Swim
112 Mile Bike
26.2 Mile Run
140.6 Total Miles

The most memorable thing that happened this year was when Mike competed in the IRONMAN Triathlon in Coeur d' Alene, ID ( 40 minutes from Spokane). The Ironman race consists of 3 events. The swim - 2.4 miles, the bike - 112 mile, and the run - 26.2 miles This was something that he always wanted to accomplish so he bit the bullet. It was perfect timing because he could put the time into it since he was also searching for a new career (not so perfect). Mike has always been a phenominal athlete, and has competed in numerous triathlons over the years, but to become an Ironman was his dream. His goal was to finish under 12 hours.

The race started at 7 in the morning with over 2100 athletes competing. It was actually much colder then we anticipated and it never warmed up. It was even raining and windy most of the race. I brought a tent and made a little campsite in the park so that the kids and I would have a place to rest and get warm. It was an exciting race. Mike had some great supporters as well. His good friend Mark, who has competed in numerous Ironman's himself, came with his wife Debbie,to give him support and coaching. They were so great, and they helped keep us informed of where he was on the course. And then Mike's brother Doug, also came and photographed the whole event - he did an awesome job. Mike's parents also were there and really enjoyed rooting their son on. Later that day my parents, my brother-in-law, and some good friends of ours, the Batt's, came to watch the race. Thank you to all of those who supported him on this incredible day.

When Mike crossed the finish line it was an emotional moment that we'll never forget. It was so amazing to see him accomplish his goal. He finished in 11 hours and 57 minutes. "Mike Egan. You are an Ironman!" I asked him if he would do it again and he said, "Definitely!" He loved it and the memory of that day has inspired us all to want to accomplish great things.