I have always admired my husband’s strong will, determination, and vast amount of strength that he puts into almost everything he does. Well, last weekend, I was able to observe that in a physical setting, and to watch it was amazing.
Last weekend Drew and I traveled to Benton Harbor, MI so that he could participate in his first triathlon event: and Ironman 70.3. When we first arrived in Michigan, we met up with Jake and Deb. Drew and Jake attended Taylor University together, which made training for marathons, including the Boston Marathon, much more convenient and enjoyable. Now however, these two friends can only use phone calls to encourage one another and hold one another accountable to their training schedules. So how though, they did it.
The Ironman took place on Saturday morning. I tell you, my husband is not a morning person, but he sure was out of bed quick that morning! I don’t believe any of us slept due to how nervous and excited we were. Jake finally got Drew out of the door by 5:00 a.m. and they were off. The fan crew, Vic, Vicki, Jakes two brothers, Mr. and Mrs. Gates, Deb and I all met up with them a few hours later as we waited on the shore of Lake Michigan for them to complete the first leg of their race. It’s awesome to see how they challenge and encourage one another. The anticipation grew as they grew closer to the finish line and we could finally pick out which swimming cap they were (it wasn’t too hard, for they were one of the few ones that we not wearing wet suits). They ran out of the water and up to the transition station with smiles on their faces. As they prepared for the biking portion, we were able to catch a few words with them and could tell they were still nervous, but excited and also glad that first part was finished.
During the biking and running events, we drove our car around to encourage them and cheer them on. Shaking our cow bells, blowing our horns, making human tunnels and shouting with loud voices definitely made us the most enthusiastic cheering squad! Amazingly, 6 hours and 33 seconds later, they crossed the finish line! We were so proud of them!
Throughout the entire event, I was amazed at Drew’s strength and determination. As we processed the experience when we drove home the next day, he stated how it was hard, but he was so happy that he did it and that he didn’t quit, even at the moments that he really wanted to. He also commented how he couldn’t have completed the race without Jake and how it wouldn’t have been as much fun without him. With these conclusions, it led us to praising God for giving Drew the abilities to do something so challenging and for giving him the friend to experience it with.
Some might wonder… What’s up next for Drew? Well, I asked him that very question. His reply: “I want to now do a full Ironman, and I want to qualify for the event in Hawaii.” There is no doubt in my mind, that if God continues to bless him with a strong will and great determination, and a friend that challenges him, that someday he will do just that.
Last weekend Drew and I traveled to Benton Harbor, MI so that he could participate in his first triathlon event: and Ironman 70.3. When we first arrived in Michigan, we met up with Jake and Deb. Drew and Jake attended Taylor University together, which made training for marathons, including the Boston Marathon, much more convenient and enjoyable. Now however, these two friends can only use phone calls to encourage one another and hold one another accountable to their training schedules. So how though, they did it.
The Ironman took place on Saturday morning. I tell you, my husband is not a morning person, but he sure was out of bed quick that morning! I don’t believe any of us slept due to how nervous and excited we were. Jake finally got Drew out of the door by 5:00 a.m. and they were off. The fan crew, Vic, Vicki, Jakes two brothers, Mr. and Mrs. Gates, Deb and I all met up with them a few hours later as we waited on the shore of Lake Michigan for them to complete the first leg of their race. It’s awesome to see how they challenge and encourage one another. The anticipation grew as they grew closer to the finish line and we could finally pick out which swimming cap they were (it wasn’t too hard, for they were one of the few ones that we not wearing wet suits). They ran out of the water and up to the transition station with smiles on their faces. As they prepared for the biking portion, we were able to catch a few words with them and could tell they were still nervous, but excited and also glad that first part was finished.
During the biking and running events, we drove our car around to encourage them and cheer them on. Shaking our cow bells, blowing our horns, making human tunnels and shouting with loud voices definitely made us the most enthusiastic cheering squad! Amazingly, 6 hours and 33 seconds later, they crossed the finish line! We were so proud of them!
Throughout the entire event, I was amazed at Drew’s strength and determination. As we processed the experience when we drove home the next day, he stated how it was hard, but he was so happy that he did it and that he didn’t quit, even at the moments that he really wanted to. He also commented how he couldn’t have completed the race without Jake and how it wouldn’t have been as much fun without him. With these conclusions, it led us to praising God for giving Drew the abilities to do something so challenging and for giving him the friend to experience it with.
Some might wonder… What’s up next for Drew? Well, I asked him that very question. His reply: “I want to now do a full Ironman, and I want to qualify for the event in Hawaii.” There is no doubt in my mind, that if God continues to bless him with a strong will and great determination, and a friend that challenges him, that someday he will do just that.
Nice photo editing... I wonder who taught u about that. What a smart gal... Love you and miss u!
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