Wednesday, April 18, 2007

There is no I in Ironman.

Quick note: April 17 was my B-day. 27! I also had a great interview on that day. I met with the Head Hunter and the Senior VP. We chatted up about business. We talked about strategies and internet marketing. I am always gung ho talking with people that have a vision and passion.

I train solo and I race solo. But I am never alone.

It doesn't matter if you are doing your first tri, attempting a marathon or like me, taking the endeavour to go for an Ironman, we are never alone. We have a support system backing us up.

Without it, we will never make it to the starting line. Let alone finish.

Here is my support system:

My grandma, for setting an example that you can still be active no matter how old you are.
My grandpa, for buying me my first bike after he won the lottery. The craziness got to start somewhere.
My parents, for supporting and being a role model through my 26 years. My dad got laid off when I had my liver transplant. Despite that, they never show it while I was in the hospital.
My friends and family. For coming to see me race. And for the continuous encouragement even though they might not understand why we do what we do.
My Saviour. There are periods in my life when it is dark and gloomy. He was there through and through and never give up.

So on July 22, I might be swimming, cycling and running by myself. But I will never be alone. There is no I effort in Ironman. My family and Len (my photographer) will be there cheering me on. Of all the things I look forward on that day is crossing the finish line and taking a pic with my family.

Of course, this means I have to finish. Let start the flame...

23 comments:

Anonymous said...

Happy belated Birthday!

Thomas said...

Excellent post, Cliff, and a great tribute to your family.

Bolder said...

great post, from a great guy.

happy b-day dude!

Trisaratops said...

Wonderful post!

Happy birthday!

Dances with Corgis said...

Wow your grandfather actually won the lottery? :)

Happy belated birthday, Cliff!

Nancy Toby said...

Go go go Cliff! Remember, it's the journey that counts, not only the finish line!

Carrie said...

Happy Birthday Cliff!!

You'll have a little bit of me backing you up July 22. Or tracking you at least...is that the same as stalking??

momo said...

happy birthday, happy birthday, happy birthday!!

this is a wonderful reminder for all of us that for every strong athlete, there is an army that helped get him there.

thanks, cliff!

Habeela said...

Happy Birthday! So, when do you find out about the interview?

ShirleyPerly said...

Happy belated birthday!!!

I enjoyed reading about your support system too. So often we get so wrapped up in training/racing/life and take things for granted. I think it's great to take time to say 'thanks' or at least recognize their contributions.

I'll be rooting for you on July 22nd :-)

Donald said...

Happy birthday, dude. Very nice post.

Ann (bunnygirl) said...

Happy Birthday! I love those family pics! They must be so proud of you, and it's obvious the feeling is mutual!

Rachel said...

You will do great. Happy 27th. Great pic of you running. You're right. You have to have a great network to do an Ironman. I'm lucky I have such an understanding husband who supports me going nuts and spend tons of time and money training.

Hilda said...

Great post, Happy birthday :)

Thanks for doing this report, it is so true!

Robin said...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!! Wonderful post. Really cool last picture with beautiful color! But I also love the contrast of the photos with you on your bikes! very cute!

brendaj said...

Happy birthday! The biking picture is precious.

Unknown said...

Wonderful post, Cliff! And a merry belated birthday, too.

Chris said...

What a great post, Cliff! And happy birthday!!! :)

JC said...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CLIFF!!!!!
(The pic of you on your bike is totally hot, btw.)

And good job on the interview. I can't wait to hear how it goes.

Your blog always manages to inspire me. Thanks for sharing.

Mike said...

Cliff...AWESOME post!!
Hope you had a great birthday!

Rae said...

Happy Belated Birthday!!!

Love the pics!

Boris' Dad said...

i'm so proud of you. i love the pic of you and your first bike side-by-side with the one taken more recently. you have a better haircut and no more yellow shorts :)

E-Speed said...

what a great post! Happy belated birthday!