{Mark} Escape from Alcatraz

 

This is my brother-in-law, Mark. He completed the Escape from Alcatraz triathlon this morning. It is a 1.5 mile swim from Alcatraz, 18 mile bike, 8 mile run with a 400 step sand ladder. He's kinda now my my new hero and my go to guy for inspiration. I say this because more often than not...people rarely dream or make goals or imagine what life could be like if they just allowed or challenged themselves to. Mark has 10 years on me...and yep, I'm thinking there is no way in hell I could do that EVER. (And might I just mention that he completed it with a hernia. And the guy is from sweltering Texas and swam in the chilled SF bay.)

Now I say that. But the truth is that I could. If I just decided. In fact, five years ago I decided to start training for a triathlon. I began training with a group of women called the TriDivas. You can check out a feature about me HERE and how I began that journey. I really never considered myself an athlete and I became one. I later ran a half marathon. Those three races are some of my greatest accomplishments. I miss pushing myself physically. I miss being physically fit.

Today I am motivated by my brother-in-law. I spent the day cleaning and tuning up my road bike, which I have not been on since prior to being pregnant with Brooklyn. I think that is one my biggest challenges with becoming a mother. Is learning to balance the person I was with the person I am now. I know it's all a matter of choice...in how I spend my time. There is so much guilt that goes into those decisions though. I'm looking forward to this summer with time to train for a 10K I will be racing and I'm really hoping to get back on my road bike.

So, thank you Mark for inspiring me. And congrats on such an awesome life accomplishment. You are setting an amazing example for your children that will live well long after this race does.