As most of us contemplate running a marathon we focus on the sheer physical exhaustion of the task. Insurmountable some say. “I could train for it if I wanted” others utter with no intent. I recently was a spectator as my sister completed an Ironman in Lake Placid. The concept for most of us, and myself before attending, was inconceivable at best. Swimming 2.4 miles, cycling 112 miles and THEN running a full marathon of 26.2 miles. Prior to attending I had a vision of the people I would see there. Muscular, lean athletes that are killing time between Olympic events. What I saw were people that I had seen before. Everyday people. People like you and I.  People from 18 to 69. The only thing different about them is the sheer dedication to their training. Obviously, this is no cake walk. The best do it in less than 10 hours. The equally determined complete it in 17.  Many people have a hard time staying awake that long! Many people get tired driving that far.

The qualities that I saw in these everyday athletes that stood them out is more than physical. Determination, a strategy, a plan. No place for dummies. The physical aspect is obvious. As the weary crossed the finish line I saw many tears, some dropped when they stopped, looks of amazement and a few putting notches in their fuel belts for one-more-Ironman.

Runningman-Mile 26  is a tribute to the Ironman athlete. His bigger-than-life size represents the awe I have for these people. The over sized head defines the need for “the plan”. The resolve in his face defines his goal. His bizarre appearance embodies the physical torture of the task.

Enjoy!