You can try all you want, but there are things in life that are impossible to explain unless you experience them first hand. Ironman is one of those. I have struggled both times in the past to finish. In 2003 I had emergency surgery just 17 days prior to the race. I was in bed for 7 days, and was unable to walk 10 feet just 7 days out. I was able to recover just enough to start and several hours later finish my 1st Ironman with a huge smile on my face. In 2005 I was in great shape, much better than in 2003, and I felt invincible. I was sure that I had figured out the race, and never thought twice. I made rookie mistakes. I took the race for granted. I took the heat for granted. After 90 miles on the bike in blistering 93 degree heat, I lost 11 pounds and had to stop. I made my children a promise that I would never get so bad that I went home in an ambulance. I was able to walk off under my own power. Do you know how hard it is to see you children and wife back at the transition area after dropping out? They both had bought Ironman necklaces' that day. They smiled as best they could and handed me the necklaces. I still have them to this day, and WILL wear them in 2007. When I cross the finish line, they will get them back, a few years late. I have never dropped out of any sporting event in my life. This has been on my mind every day since. I will be 40, and plan to do it right. I have the "ok" from the family, and I do not take this "ok" lightly. This is a huge sacrifice to have someone train for a year for this event.

I would love to have you join in this journey. Do you want to do it with me? You have only 5 weeks to think about it, as the race will fill fast. Don't take this decision lightly. This is a life changing decision. There are few things in life that compare to being called an Ironman! I was once an "Ironman" but feel I owe it to myself and the race to do it once more. Life is so short. Come on the journey. You will never regret it!

I will be following my progress on the Podcast, but would like to go one step further. I have some very special plans to include a few of you. Do you have a story to tell? Do you have a special Ironman journey for 2007? Let me know. You may be able to join Team Stu for 2007.