Sunday, November 6, 2011

Ironman Florida

So I know I disappeared for a few weeks - but I've been SUPER busy (work, wedding planning - fun stuff like that).   And right now I feel like I've been hit by a truck - not because I drank to much last night - but because I spent about 17 hours yesterday either riding on a motorcycle catching cheaters or ringing a cow bell.  Do you know why?  Because it was the best day of the year in Panama City Beach!  Ironman Florida!  What an AMAZING day.  So many records were smashed, PR's made and first timers became Ironmen.  I spent quality time with Heidi and Laura (as well as MomFL) and met some awesome people as well.  (thanks Laura for putting together such a great meet tweeter/blogger meet up!)
Heidi and I ready to bust drafters

Kristi, Heidi, Myself and Laura

And the finish line last night was out of control - the energy was amazing and we danced our assess off cheering every single person on until midnight. (Laura and I also ended up with a microphone for a few minutes as well)  Doris (best raw food chef ever!) had John Flanagan as a home stay.  Don't know who he is?  Google him. He smashed the IMFL swim record yesterday - anyway John joined us at the finish line as well.  The day could not have gotten any better.

Until Sunday.

When I volunteered and ended up in the Kona slot tent.  I've never seen people so happy, full of energy and so excited (to give me their credit cards)   - and then the slot roll downs.  I could not wipe the smile off of my face all morning telling everyone congrats!   Wow.  I can't even put it into words :)  

I know this is a random post - but if I went into detail, the post would be way to long for anyone to read!  If you EVER get the change to volunteer at a triathlon - DO!  It's well worth every second!  



17 comments:

Karen said...

How exciting! Sounds like you had the best volunteer job ever this morning :)

Unknown said...

being an IM MOM is tough work. So glad you had a blast. I'm sure they needed you. I got to be on a motorcycle for Kona in 2009. 8 hours in the sun and playing mom was exhausting, but so worth it. Rest up!

Keith said...

I understand the amazement, and the fun you had. I was a finish line catcher at IMC 2009, and what an experience that was! You see it all, people finishing that have had a better day than they ever dreamed of, and people coping with a terrible day. I'd do it again.

Lora Abernathy said...

Glad you had a great time. It does sound awesome.

ONEHOURIRONMAN said...

Must be tough trying to make a living as a mid pack pro. I am sure he had a great time with you all

Shelby said...

Go volunteers! And Kona, anything Kona could make me smile for sure =) Good for you!

Austin said...

You are a VARSITY volunteer. It was great seeing u as always...we'll be back for you and Heidi's IMFL next year...

Big Daddy Diesel said...

Thanks for volunteering!!

Kim said...

This is SO fun! I hope you caught lots of drafters and so glad you got to see friends (H!) and enjoy the experience of the roll down too! What a happy place!! Nice work C!!

Beth said...

I love volunteering too, it’s a great way to spend a non racing weekend

Katie said...

volunteers/volunteering is flat-out awesome. I love being around athletes!

Unknown said...

So bummed that we didn't get a chance to meet up! Next year for sure!!! :)

Volunteering might have been the highlight of my weekend too... I mean, people handing me their credit cards and then squealing with excitement. Doesn't get better than that (and I was just at regular registration!!!)

Anonymous said...

I can imagine how happy people were in the kona slot tent. What a great spot to volunteer.

Anonymous said...

I can imagine how happy people were in the kona slot tent. What a great spot to volunteer.

Carolina John said...

It was SO fantastic to meet you! Glad you had fun volunteering and didn't bust me for drafting on the bike - I heeded your warning and did not draft anyone at all. Glad you got in for next years race!

Heidi Austin, PT, DPT said...

such a fun weekend! can't wait to do it all over next year :) we'll talk soon!

Meaghan said...

Very very very cool - sounds like you had a kick ass day!! I just might need to do this next year!