domination

Mom and Dad dominated the Ironman!

The full race started at 7:00 am with a mass start at the swim

then onto the bike for 112 miles

then onto the marathon

here are a few action shots from the 26.2 mile run

the host hotel was mile marker 3, 10, 16 and 23

so we got to see Mom and Dad several times.

After watching for only a few minutes

we quickly realized what an emotional day this would be.

We saw the lead man and woman absolutely

destroy the race...truly inhuman.
We saw several disabled athletes, which brought tears.

We saw a few people crying while running,

if I had to guess from exhaustion, pain or breakdown.

We went from silent watchers to cheering fans in no time.

We were so proud of each stranger that ran by,

and started cheering.

"Great job!"

"Keep it up, you're doing great!"

"Come on 227, you can do it!"

Cow bells and constant shouts filled the air,

everyone was cheering on each racer as if they were family!

It was such an inspiring afternoon

We took a break from cheering to retrieve

Mom and Dad's bikes and bags at the second transition
then staked out the finish line

Here is Mom rounding the last curve into the finish tunnel

Here is Daddy running into the finish...140.6 miles dominated!

Daddy right after crossing the finish

A victory hug for the happy couple

A true inspiration

My parents...the Ironmen!

Dad and Mom, in all their victory glory!

Cheryl Monroe, age 52, 12:50:39

Moi Monroe, age 52, 13:25:33

I'm such a proud daughter!!!