I thought that I would get a few thoughts down about my an impending challenge I set myself a few months ago.

Two months ago I had the big idea to spend £400, no £470 registering for an IronMan in Switzerland in 2009 - simply because I could; there’s no qualification required for these races (apart from some really big international races). It seemed like the right thing to do at the time, I’m 41 years old and figure - if I can, then I should.  The longer one leaves this type of thing, then anything can happen, a long-term injury, long-term lethargy…  I have always considered this type of thing for young people.  So, now I am left hoping that this “investment” (there’s a question) will pay off and I will manage to endure the race.  I will complete it - I have to believe this, but in what time - just in front of the road sweeper?  or will I surprise myself and find that this type of race is a real “leveller” and I’m in the top third?  I’ve never been very fast, perhaps just a stayer if the goal is worth it enough to my ego.

On a weekly basis - even though Ive not even started training, I regret it, suddenly become massively inspired, then sink back to wishing I’d never committed the money.  I then think to myself that I could probably raise this money again for a charity - so have made a decision to do just that, so another reason for me to focus on completing this challenge.

So, a blog to myself, yes.  But also any “would be” IM 2009, IM 2010, or 2011-ers, here is the start of my journey both mentaly and from a basic training point of view.  The book I am using as my guide is by Don Fink (Be Iron Fit) in which he confidently states that anyone can do this (not sure if I’m more of less inspired by that?)

I’m not going to make a career out of Iron Man or even triathlons, so the only thing I have going for me in terms of motivation is losing weight, proving to myself that at the age of 42 (when this will happen), I still have a body capable of carrying my 16.5 stone 140 miles under my own steam.  I’m sure it can be done, but whether this will be under the stipulated 17 hour time limit I really don’t know.

So there you are!  I’m going to try and keep this short and sweet, but regular - hopefully daily.  Contemplating keeping a video story, just for the record, but not as a talking library of training tips - but to give me something to do.

So if you are a basic-ability runner, cyclist, swimmer, or perhaps much much better at one of these sports, then perhaps you might get something from this blog as I promise to be quite open and frank about my progression (hopefully) and the reservations I have about swimming (gulp).

I would welcome any thoughts that you have if you are currently, or contemplating IM now or in the future - so feel free to register and comment/contribute.

I’d like to say now that I’m off for a 5 mile run, but the truth is that this has to bit fitted comfortably around my full-time occupation; so back to my desk since I am my own employee.

Bye for now