I forgot to post a reminder that the 2007 Ironman World Championships were shown on NBC this weekend. If you didn't get a chance to watch it and it is shown again some time, I would highly recommend checking it out. Even if you aren't into triathlons - you will be touched by the stories of ordinary people that have overcome or are in the process of overcoming various challenges in their lives. I have yet been able to watch one without tears rolling down my face. Their stories are an inspiration to me and countless others.
This year was unusual in that many of the ranked professionals dropped out of the race. Last year's winners: Norman Stadler and Michellie Jones both left during the 112 mile bike portion due to medical issues. 2005 men's champion, Faris Al-Sultan did not even start the race due to a stomach flu. Natascha Badmann wrecked her bike into a traffic cone and fractured her collar bone. This left the field open for anyone to claim the prize.
As interesting as these events were, I found the stories from the non-professionals or "age groupers" more riveting. Stories like the 65 year old woman in her first Ironman as a competitor. She has volunteered in previous years. Or the legally blind gentleman who also was taking on Kona for the first time.
The story that hit me closest to home was the story that was not told in the broadcast. It was of Murray Frank of Canada. He was bib # 644. I saw him get out of the water and knew that he was the one racer that I was going to be rooting for. He was mentioned at the end of the program and they showed him crossing the finish line - becoming an Ironman. I checked his info and he finished with a time of 16:44:08. He was 161/162 in the 45-49 year old men. He was the 1677th finisher of the 1685. He weighs in at 285 pounds.
He is my role model - if he can do it then so can I and so will I.
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2 comments:
Jeff:
Thought I would drop you a quick note. My journey to Ironman started in 2001 at 360 pounds with a recently repaired ACL.
In 2002, I ran 3:59 at the Seattle marathon and then went on to complete Ironman Canada in 04, 05 and 06. I am a 14ish hour guy with a 6ish hour bike and I raced controlled in Kona to make sure I got the finish. I was 9 minutes off my race plan.
I am at IMC again this year and would love to go 13 something. My wifes Cancer is controlled and our newly adopted daughter has settled in so its my turn to finish some unfinished business with training and weight loss.
If you ever have any questions about the specific experience I have with training and racing in the 250 pound range, I would be happy to share.
Regards, Murray Frank
murrayf@telus.net
Deraest Murray,
I just watched you finish the Ironman. My husband had taped it for us to watch. I have to say....you are a personal inspiration to me...a hero!
I would love an autographed photo to display for daily motivation! I'm glad all is well with your very sweet family. You have made my week!!!!!
Best Wishes!
Jen Z.
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