PTC Boys in KONA.
Never before have I been glued to a screen before for a sport. Ask my brothers and now my husband - whenever sport comes on - I'm gone. I think it's because as a child, and being the youngest - I never really got a say. It was always rugby league, rugby union, cricket or anything else that took their fancy. And with only one TV in the household it was either sit there and watch or make a compromise. And mine was if you make me a yummy salad I promise to sit quietly or otherwise I will pester you to till the cows come home - I was good at that.
Now as an adult I thank my lucky stars we have another TV or computer that I can submerse my head into for my husbands sake. I still don't really find those sports interesting. BUT, Ironman - now that's a totally different kettle of fish. And the fact that you can stream it live from Ironmanlive.com is even better still. You feel like you are there - in amongst all the hustle and bustle of activity and excitement. My dream is to hopefully one day be there - if not as a competitor - which I don't ever think I could qualify but to atleast be a part of that amazing day.
So after my bike ride yesterday morning - when I got home, it was time for a quick shower and then earphones in and eyes stuck on the computer to watch our boys cross that line. My heart was pounding so hard. I can only begin to imagine what their families were feeling and how excited and nervous they all were waiting to see them come through that FINISHERS shute.
I didn't get to see the Pro guys finish, but have since seen the photos and with a 1-2 finish for Australia Crowie/Jacobs - I cannot stop bursting into tears everytime I see this photo.
We also scored a 3rd Aussie male in the Top 10 with Luke McKenzie. Awesome work guys. We are all so proud of you here back at home.
Onto the women our very own Mirinda Carfrae fought like a true warrior to make up ground and came in a very close second to Chrissie Wellington. Again out came the Kleenex as I was a blubbering mess watching those 2 inspirational women hug at the finish line. If I was there I would have hugged them too - just for being the kind of women that they are.
But the proudest moment of all, for all of us back here at home was watching our 5 guys cross that finish line. All of them came in 10hrs and under. I am in AWE. Actually I think all of our home town did a little jig and drank a few beers on their behalf. You guys totally rocked it. It is now time to put your feet up and bask in the glory of what you have all achieved. And when you guys get back home I am sure there will be a party or two or more to commemorate the day you all raced in the HAWAIIAN IRONMAN.
