My first post of the new year. I’m not sure what has taken me so long but it’s not for lack of want. I’ve been trying to figure this all out since I feel like I started my blog too late. I’d like to be able to back date some posts (not sure if I can) as I know there are quite a few details missing about this journey so will try to fill in the blanks as I go along.
The bottom line, my training for IMTX has started to ramp up. I know I’ve come a long way since I wasn’t officially released to run by the doctor at this time last year. However, I still have a long way to go. Nonetheless, what an incredible experience.
Last year, my wife and I volunteered for the Outrival Racing run station during IMTX. I wanted to get a feel for the experience and feel we did. My wife and I were exhausted after our 4 hours of running back and forth to fill ice buckets and water coolers. I was dripping with sweat and couldn’t believe that some athletes had been at it for up to 11 hours by the end of our shift. There were numerous instances that left us awestruck with the most significant coming when I handed water to a guide and his athlete who is blind and deaf. If seeing that doesn’t get you inspired and/or bring a tear to your eye, then you better check your pulse. It really puts my weight and knee obstacles into perspective.
We met some very nice people while volunteering. Our Volunteer Captain, Jody, did an incredible job organizing everything and making sure we were ready for the athletes. He and his wife also did IMTX a few years back so I enjoyed hearing about his experience and could’ve listened to him for hours. I loaned a few items to him for the race so met with him again afterwards and toward the end of our conversation, he made a particular statement that has stuck with me ever since. He said crossing the finish line was incredible and something he’ll never forget but it’s the journey of getting there that is truly amazing. “Enjoy the journey,” he says as he shakes my hand and we go our separate ways. Oh yeah, then he yells from the other side of his SUV that he’ll be supporting me next year. I’m looking forward to it.
