04/20/2026
Ironman Texas 2026 ….
This was number 23. I keep going back to the start line as I know it’s the ultimate classroom for this sport. Feeling all the pain, joy, nausea, strength, angst, and every other emotion the human body and mind are capable of . I learn more out there than in any of the courses I’ve taken over my 25 years of coaching . Time to test the human mind and body !”
This was a strange training cycle- I was in a boot for 6 weeks with Achilles issues and have been getting weekly Electric Shock treatments on my hip for scar tissue after 3rd degree burns . Alas- I love the sport, the trilife and challenges that mirror the adversity we face in every day life…. So I did it again ..
This one was not wetsuit legal- the water was so brown I couldn’t see a thing.. My left eye vision is so bad that I’m used to swimming in an abyss! We were off in a sea of aggressive swimmers .. . I tweaked my back at some point - I love being 55!
Lesson- keep up with lower lumbar mobility and core old lady !
I saw a police boat and assumed it was for direction.. back to that …
Bike was hot as ordered and a bit windy, oh and 112 miles is still super far. After 22 of these I thought it would be shorter😂
Hopped off the bike and was the only female in the tent… it was super weird . No guys either 🤡..
The volunteers were amazing. Off to the run. Right away I thought if the Little Mermaid . When she earned human legs, every step felt like knives. Well holy Christmas it was like that the entire run. I’ve never had to dig so deep to keep it moving! I carry my drink as I can’t tolerate what’s on course . Well crud my bottle broke so I had to punt. Plan B was water, salt, and gels - YUMM!
My mom died when I was young and April 18 was her birthday - I sang to her a lot and she kept me going . Most likely because my voice is so bad she desperately needed me to finish so I would shut up.
I made it - finishing in 11:07- 2nd place division,
and grateful to earn my 9th trip to Kona.
We don’t know how long we can do the things we love - so don’t wait . A beautiful, young, strong athlete lost her life in the water on Saturday. Find your gratitude, your why, and proceed with the grace of God. Rest in peace Mara.
Love Coach Mary
