Monday, July 21, 2008

Bryan Deal, YOU, ARE, AN IRONMAN!!!

Boy, I've waited a long time to hear those words. I did it. I sure did earn it today. Rain came down in buckets, pretty much all day long. There's something about bombing downhill at 44mph in the driving rain that gets the heart pumping.

Just got back from watching the very end of the race at midnight. Amazing to see that in person. The crowd was electric, cheering in the last finishers. Truly heartbreaking to watch someone cross the line in 17:00:08. The official cutoff is 17 hours. They won't get the medal, shirt, or hat; but they are Ironmen in their hearts.

Lots more to come, need sleep...

12 Comments:

Anonymous said...

Congratulations, Bryan.
What an accomplishment!!
Debra

Unknown said...

Congratulations, Bryan!!! A well deserved accomplishment, you worked very hard to have such an awesome achievement. We all are very proud of you back here in DSA.

Anonymous said...

i really don't know what the big deal is...i mean, not only do marisa and i walk to the grocery store every week, but we also carry home all our groceries! while i'm overly impressed that you are alive (and up til midnight) after completing what most would call a suicide mission, i doubt you would have finished in under 14hours carrying a 2 liter, a case of beer, and a bag full of canned goods!

-brandon

Anonymous said...

it just occurred to me what the big deal is....YOU ARE!!! definitely proud of you bro -- great work! not only did you beat your goal, you did it all while braving the elements.

saying it the most pg-rated way i can...YOU OWN LAKE PLACID!!!

-brandon

Anonymous said...

Congrats Bryan, wish I could have seen you cross that finish line..
You are an IRONMAN:)

Eric

Anonymous said...

Congrats Bryan!
How great does it feel to be an official IRONMAN? Wow that is truely amazing. We had alot of fun keeping track of you throughout the day and definitely had you in our thoughts and prayers. Lets celebrate soon!
~Marisa :)

BruceW said...

Congratulations again Bryan. You are an IRONMAN! Also noticed that in the pre-race picture with the kids, you had HAIR on your head. Keep it! LU, "theDad"

James Daniels said...

Congrats Bryan,

I can't believe you did it. You are so amazing.

FunFitandHappy said...

Congratulations on becoming an Ironman in unbelievable tough conditions

You certainly earned the title!!

Anonymous said...

How does it feel to be an Ironman!! I knew you could do it, but still I am Amazed by it. You should be so proud of yourself!!. I know I am.Love you Mom.

James F. Garst said...

Awesome accomplishment Bryan...truly awesome!

~Jamie Garst

LACKEYMAN said...

incredible.