
08/08/2025
HEAL athletes took to the IM Canada-Ottawa challenge this past weekend.
Sean wanted to race in his “adopted” home town b/c he gets warm fuzzies when he sees the Peace Tower. Main Goal: Finish the race & enjoy! Sean’s process goes: Stay cool, actively troubleshoot issues before they become bigger. Post-race Sean said he was happy with the swim, super happy with the bike (not having a functioning power meter might have been a blessing mentally) and got through the run with perseverance.
Congrats on IM #2 Sean!
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Jess wanted to do IMOtt in her words “renew” her ability to call herself an Ironman after previously completing IM Tremblant 6 years ago. The Ottawa race seemed just right as it was drivable making logistics easy and spectator friendly.
Pre race Jess said “embrace the misery” and remember that no one forced her to do this so it’s her responsibility to finish. While some might not think that is a great outlook, taking a blunt and pragmatic approach to what is going to be a long tough day can be just what one needs to succeed. She got through the training block uninjured and came out of the race uninjured and in the process, Jess took 90 mins off her last Ironman!
Congrats on IM #2 Jess!
Kim Carlin signed up for this Ironman on her 50th Birthday when should could barely walk due to a foot injury. For her it wasn’t about the race itself but a commitment she was making to a new chapter of getting healthier physically and mentally. She had some big challenges along the way including losing her dad, her two cats and a big bike crash 8 weeks before race day. Before the race Kim said: “No matter what happens I’m happy and feel like a better version of myself for all that I have put in!”
On race day Kim was able to prove to herself that women don’t fade as they age, they rise! Fighting through neck & back pain early in the race, Kim stayed on top of her nutrition throughout the bike and pushed through. Due to the crash we knew the run would be tough and had a run/fast walk plan in place. Kim didn’t quit & got to that finish line successfully completing IM #3!
I’m so happy I was able to be there. It was an amazing day out there!!