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Ironman UK 2010 by Alick Forrester
Well done to Alick for proving that it is possible to juggle a hectic lifestyle and commit to an intense training program.
Here is Alick’s account of the training and event:
It was without question one of the best things I have ever done!!! It was more than a day however with a solid years training in the build up. In that year my wife became pregnant with our 3rd I had a nasty bike accident that nearly stopped everything!The toughest job of all was juggling life and training and a VERY busy job. Many early starts 5am and many late finishes 10pm. Plenty of saddle sore from 6 + hour rides, eye infections from 3 million tumble turns, 2 massive crippling blisters……..from mile upon mile of running along towpaths!!! All worth it in the end.
The day itself was a very nervous one. Up at 3.30am for a spot of brekkie, along with 10 other athletes. My wife was ready to pop (she could have given birth at any time) so we staid at a decent hotel The Marriot….THEY WERE FANTASTIC. Anyway from then on its a blur really…..I swam, biked and ran my ass off. Got thru a panic attack on the bike, used a local residents loo for a much need poo!!!! and simply refused to walk on the marathon (Mikes advice as soon as you start to walk you wont run anymore)…I knew I was gonna make it. I spent at least 20 minutes visiting the bog! Nutrition was overdone.
The Finish line was bloody brilliant and the emotion was welling up. Seeing my wife standing there wiith tears in her eyes….(see photo) I ran to hear and let go of a years emotion !!!! My mum and two close friends came along and I must say if it wasnt for their support I would not have made it….Brilliant!!!!I have recommended thetrilife.com to loads of people as Mike got me thru tough times. I know one lady who is doing IM 70.3 next year and is defo gonna sign up with you. I am sticking with you for another year….Beaver Fest 70.3, a handful of Olympics and 2 or 3 marathons all on the cards for next year…then 2012, IMUK and IM Germany.
Alick
