Patrick and I signed up to volunteer at this year's Ironman - NOT because we were looking to get in line to sign up for 2014 - but because it is a fun way to support the atheletes and be involved.
We came back from South Haven late Saturday night so we could be downtown for the start of the race Sunday morning.
Dusty, Patrick and Derek before the swim.
They look so much more relaxed than in a similar photo from last year!
Derek and Connie offered to watch James while we volunteered (Thanks again guys!) So after the swim started, Patrick and I headed off to the bike racks to help athletes transition from swim to bike. It was a really fun, fast paced job. The entire top level of the Monona Terrace parking structure is lined with bikes - we were each in charge of one or two racks of just 20 bikes. As racers come out of transition, volunteers start calling out their race numbers. It is similar to a large (and loud) game of telephone. People shout out the numbers as they run by so the volunteer with that athlete's bike on their rack is ready to grab their bike and have it waiting for the racer to grab when they get there. It was really fun and as usual - all of the athletes are so appreciative of any help and cheering.
Patrick and I ready to support the atheletes in our volunteer shirts.
Here are the first atheletes coming through - the first non-pro out of the water came by in less than 48 minutes - insane for a 2.4 mile swim! There were probably over 100 volunteers at this spot alone - it became an aisle of cheering for the athletes --- really cool!
After our shift we spent the day watching the race - definitely at a slower pace than last year!
Patrick and James on State Street - James enjoyed some pizza and clapping for the runners - but it was a long day for us all. Fun to remember all of the excitment from last year but enjoy the day with Patrick this year too :) Congrats to all of the athletes - we will see you again next year!
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