Well on Sunday I did my 1st half distance Ironman… 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike ride followed by 13.1 mile run (half marathon). Came in
just over 7 hours. It was great, Bowood’s the hardest Outlaw one they run (which I didn’t know when I signed up!). The bike route was challenging with not many flat sections, but that is Wiltshire for you! Then the run was tough, beautiful, but tough. It was all through the Bowood estate, but it was three laps, so you knew what was coming after lap one.
The weather was better than predicted thank goodness, but the wind had picked up and the run was very hilly. However, I did it, and weirdly haven’t ached too much at all…
These long distance races/events like Ironman, or ultra races are such a learning experience, you need to know how and when to refuel. And you never stop learning about yourself and how much a mental game they are too… I have another level of respect for triathletes who complete the full Ironman distance!
The organisers at the event were amazing and I had to give Malcolm, one of the volunteers, a hug each time I went into transition! I know 
it was a race but I was on such a high, I couldn’t help myself… I could have knocked about another 15 mins off time, but you know what, I had fun and that was important to me.
I had wonderful support from family. My brother being such a massive support, camera man and interviewer!!! Making me laugh… My daughter wearing a T.Shirt she made with “Go Mummy Go”, “Ironman Mummy” and “You can do it” written on it. And then running with me along one section of the run, for about 100m, which really cheered me up each time giving me her pep talks… And my pal Ali who surprised me and shouted ‘Good luck Viv’, before the swim… Tears pricked my eyes and I was a mess for a moment and after I finished, when I burst into happy tears when I saw everyone at the finish line!
Thanks guys, you were amazing! xxx
So would I like to do another… Yes. Maybe a flatter one!
Would I do a full Ironman distance? Em.. Never say never… Though I think my family might disown me… Oh the training!!!