8:59:54. And it took a flat out sprint to do it. And I paid for it.
I know a lot of people would be happy with this time. And after I give it some time to sink in maybe I'll be happier. But my honest reaction? Disappointed, dejected, embarrassed.
I came here with all signs pointing to a sub 8:30 or better, but the second I got on the bike, lead. Lead riding through mud. After 60 miles, blurry vision, cramps. I had to spin almost no power just to ride safely.
It was the worst I've ever felt starting a run, and part of me is proud I didn't walk it in at any point. I wanted to, so badly. But I ran into so many friends and people who I've met via Instagram, and it just kept me going. To all of you, thank you. You got me over the line, you kept me running. Please comment here because my race memory is already very foggy 😂
6 seconds slower would have been basically the same outcome, but I'm happy I saw it through. Tomorrow I'll probably be both happier and more disappointed at the same time.
I have some solid ideas as to what went wrong, but I can't be sure yet. But for now, I'm gonna enjoy cheering in all the awesome Ironman finishers at the finish line for as long as we can take the cold!
Thanks to the whole IM team and volunteers that put this on, and especially to the medical crew that got me back on my feet after wild full body cramps started as soon as I stopped moving. You guys are the best.
#IronmanCalifornia #IronmanTriathlon #Triathlon #SprintFinish #MedicalTent
