Great day was had in Penticton as athletes from around the globe took part in the oldest North American Ironman held in Penticton, British Columbia.  This race always holds a special place for me as it was my first every Ironman race 12 years ago now.  This year we had one athlete take part in this great event and Rob Townsend had a great day!  In his first ever Ironman Rob completed the distance in a time of 12:22!  Rob will be sharing with us his own personal report in the coming days but I need to share a few tidbits with you about this great guy!

Just over 3 years ago Rob actually purchased one of my triathlon bikes.  I am always particular with whom I sell my equipment to as I want them to have a good home:)  Rob was the finest match for my little Blade.  It was the same bike that I won my Ironman New Zealand title with so I had many fond memories on this little machine.  What was so great was that there were many more memories for this bike to have.

Rob told me at this time that he wanted to do IM Canada when he 50 - that would be at IM Canada 2006 and if I would help him with this journey.  I said of course and really did not think too much of it after that time.  In the meantime I moved to Arizona and Rob stayed in Victoria.  Approximately a year later I get a phone call from Rob saying that it was time to start the process towards his Ironman goal.  I loved the fact that on his personal history document under longest run in the past 4 weeks he wrote" to the car"! 

We started a 2 year build to Ironman which included the New Balance Half in addition to the Island Race Series and many long bike rides around the Victoria area.  It was such a treat for me to watch Rob out on the course this past week.  On the bike he looked steady and as he headed out on the run he had a spring in his step - but to see him come down that finishing shoot was simply beautiful.  Ironman is a journey and Rob you captured the Ironman Spirit!  Great Day and here is to the future!

The day prior to IMC Rob presented me with this poem and a lovely 3-sided jade rock Thank-you

The Rock

I was born in days past. I have been on many journeys. I have felt the sun, the wind, and the rain, and they have all changed me.  I am more rounded and more polished.  Now in the water and surrounded by the like kind I glisten in the morning sun, as I embark on a new journey....