I spent the last weekend in June over in beautiful Coeur d’Alene, ID. Two of my dad’s brothers flew in to town to compete in Ironman CDA on Sunday.  That Friday night I had dinner at my Aunt and Uncle’s house in Post Falls with family and friends, including Ironmen and ultra marathoners. Conversation about pain, hallucinations, running, biking, and swimming were abundant. As a runner myself, I was like a kid in a candy store, soaking in all of the stories, tribulations, and advice from the endurance athletes.

Local ultramarathoner and physiatrist, Lisa Bliss, was there and she talked about her upcoming race at the end of July–a solo, unsupported, self-contained crossing of Death Valley (146 miles), from the Badwater Basin (the lowest elevation in the US at 282 ft below sea level) to the summit of Mt. Whitney (the highest elevation in the contiguous US at 14, 494 feet). She’s doing this to raise money for Crosswalk in Spokane. Read more here.

Sunday was the big day for my three uncles: Ironman CDA 2011. My 5 AM wake up time was nothing compared to my uncles who woke up around 4 AM. The start of the swim was spectacular, as 2400 people in bright pink and neon green swim caps jumped into the water and began their 2.4 mile swim. After spending awhile on the beach, we saw each of my uncles transition to the bikes. We then drove out to the bike turn-around point (mile 40 of 112) where I was able to get in a short run along a blocked off private dirt rode before we saw my uncles pass by. After some more cheering, my dad and I took a short break with my two little cousins and went back to the house for naps. Next time we saw my uncles, they had all begun the last leg of Ironman: the marathon. Lots of people looked really tired, but I was impressed overall with the energy and speed displayed by many. My first uncle to come in finished around 15 hours and something (can you imagine exercising that long?!?) and the other two followed in the 16th hour. After everyone finished, my cousin Nate turned to me and said: “So when are we starting our Ironman training?” Ha. Good one, Nate.

Here are some snapshots from the weekend:

My favorite part of Ironman is watching the swim begin:

Out of the water and about to begin the 112 mile bike ride:

40 miles in:

The kids made signs:

Kiss from dad:

Running the marathon:

More running:

Beautiful view:

The first of the brothers to finish:

Done:

Needless to say, the next day was spent lounging around, napping, and eating for many of the folks in the house. I am very inspired by each of my three uncles who completed their 1st, 2nd, and 13th Ironmans. Can’t wait for next year!

-Virginia