It was simply a fabulous day with bright skies and a calm sea.   I just loved the swim.  There was one steep 500m mountain to climb on the bike but it was beautiful through the pine forest.  It was simply fabulous cycling 180k without having to worry about cars and traffic lights.  Something of a headwind, though and, unfortunately, it changed direction -- but not in a good way.  I got off to a good start on the run but by the end it was all I could do to keep those legs moving!   When I finished I was more than a little dazed and couldn't stand up (I literally had to hang on to Laura to walk) but cross that line I did and no, I didn't walk the run.  Nor did I stop for anything other than 'comfort breaks' and to receive kisses from my support team Laura and Hannelore whose kisses and cheers really powered me on.  For 95% of the race I was having the time of my life so the tough moments are easily forgotten.  My final time was 13 hours and 16 minutes which, I am told, is not a bad time for a first Ironman. I am quite pleased, too, with my marathon time as it is the first time I have ever run that distance.  

Most of you will not be interested in the specific timings but, for those of you who are, I am including them below.

Once again, thanks for all your support.

Andrew

3,800 swim 01.19.20

Transition 1 12.39

180k bike 7.03.03

Transition 2 8.34

26 mile run 4.33.15