Dear Ironman,

Till one year ago, I thought only crazy triathletes would fall in love with you. A 2,4 mile swim, a 112 mile bike and a 26 mile run, on one day, with breaks as little as possible, no coffee with cake on your way, but only liquid food and some energy bars..A big test for body and mind: “90% is mental, the rest is physical.” After three half triathlons in 2016, I decided to meet you on the beautiful island of Lanzarote. There was a hate-love-relationship. I had to quit 10 miles before the finishline, because of dehydration. I tried to get you out of my mind, but I noticed that my heart was already stolen. I wanted to know how it would feel to have you for the full 100%, including finish and the award ceremony. 🏁🏆

We met each other again in Maastricht (The Netherlands) where I won my age group. You invited me to come to Hawaii with another 2400 boyfriends and girlfriends to participate in the most heroic race: WK Ironman! YES! Was my answer. I seem to be in love with you, 3 dates with the iron man in one season, and we’ve already experienced a lot: did not finish (I hate you), win (I love you), world championship (I never forget you). 😍

You make it hard for us here in Hawaii, but I’m getting used to it! Luckily I came from Lanzarote and I was quickly acclimatized. Furthermore, you do not give us the most spectacular course: an endless 90km over the highway and then cycle back the same road after a U-turn. The marathon is almost the same. In this respect, I found you more attractive in Lanzarote and Maastricht. 😉 But love makes blind and if you want to be a real Ironman, not only your body but even your mind has to be like iron! 💪🏼

The hard work is done now, the training hours have been made and tapering has begun. Body and mind feel good now, and I hope to hold on like this till our date on October 14th. I’m looking forward to it, but how much I love you, after our peak of this season, it’s really time for rest. You have cheered my body and head this year. You are a hero, you make it possible for people to get the best out it, regardless of their motivation, regardless of their story. I will miss you, but out of sight is not out of heart … ❤️
See you at the finishline, where we’ll drink one! 🍻🥂🍷

P.S. What do you prefer?! 😘