You Rock!

Spectators: ‘Go Natascha – you rock!

Natascha Badmann: [punches fist in the air and continues running marathon] ‘Thanks guys!’

The above was a scene from one of the Ironman World Championships in Kona, Hawaii in the mid-2000’s. That is the power of suggestion and encouragement. Even professionals and world champions need it to bolster their flagging confidence and performance.

Ironman ‘Voices’ Mike Riley and Whit Raymond begin their announcements when the transition areas opens before dawn, till the last participants crosses the line the music is playing. Music fills the air, muting some doubts, pre-race anxiety, and the residual sleepiness of race supporters and family. When I am not in a trance-like state during the race, I recall a few songs that stir and spur my spirit. Here is a sample of songs that rock when you are in the finisher’s chute completing your run, or making a u-turn:

Avril Lavigne: What the Hell

Katy Perry: Firework

Cheryl Cole: Fight For This Love

Black-Eyed Peas: Bom Bom Pow

Black-Eyed Peas: I Got A Feeling

Madonna: 4 Minutes

ACDC: You Shook Me All Night Long

ACDC: Highway to Hell

Linkin Park: Numb

Songs are like mantra; at least, that’s what the chorus do to us – incite in us a sense of positivism through the lyrics and melody. What are you favourite iPod songs? Which songs or pieces of music rock you on?

Post-IMWA Scenes

As a departure from race day dramatic shots, we present (courtesy of Soon, a Korean-Australia who posted a sub-12 hour, first Ironman finishing time; his best standalone marathon is 3:01) scenes from IMWA including the Day After The Event. Thanks, Soon!

Bike check-in.

Pre-race swim.

The Finish Line…unraveled!

Finally, we enjoy a quiet moment with ‘Voice of Ironman’ Mike Riley and race supporter-buddy, Tc Campbell.

When I grow up (to 74 years) I want to be like them…it gets harder (each year) to qualify even in their age group.

Winners of IMWA: both from Western Australia.

Soon: uber-marathoner and now-Ironman, 44 years old.

You must visit the Chocolate Factory at Margaret River. Free sampling!

Compulsory stop-over: Beer-therapy for the hobbling, middle-aged triathlete! We strongly recommend the India Pale Ale [hidden from view to discourage minors].

The Fox: 10:14 finish! He is aiming to earn another Kona slot within the next year (he completed the Ironman World Championships in 2005). 

Wine [medicine, in some circles] served ('first-come, first served') at the Awards Evening; yes, that is red meat in the foreground, but it's recovery time! We whacked the buffet table at least twice.