Ironman Utah Shout Out!

I couldn't have done it without you guys. One person may cross the finish line of an Ironman but for every athlete, there's an invisible army carrying her along the 140.6 miles. I want to thank those who helped me the most.

1. The people of St. George.
You guys did a rockin' job! Amazing for a debut race year. It felt like this race has been going on for a decade. The city was friendly, easy to navigate, safe, and clean. The volunteers gave me tons of enthusiasm and support in my darkest miles. The spectators had amazing energy. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I wouldn't have had such a fantastic time without your support!

2. The Triathlon Club of San Diego (www.triclubsandiego.org).
I'm proud to be a member of the best triathlon club in the country (also the largest and the oldest). You guys are like family. I have invaluable training resources and training buddies as well as infinite workouts through this club. At least 60 of us went to St. George and it was fantastic training, racing, and celebrating with you guys. You're the best!

3. UCSD Masters (http://recreation.ucsd.edu/mstr).
One of the best masters programs in the country. Sickie and Terry are coaches I trust dearly. They make swimming challenging and fun. Thank you for helping me with my stroke and inspiring me to fall in love with swimming. I love all my swim buddies during each workout. You guys are awesome!

4. My Training Buddies.
There are so many of you to thank, I can't even begin to count. We shared hellish miles on the bike together. Countless pints of blood, sweat, and tears and post-ride meals. War stories. Fear and excitement in anticipation of St. George. Thank you for motivating me to get out of bed and ride at the crack of dawn every Saturday. Thank you for encouraging me to go just one more mile, just one more hill. I don't think I'll be doing the Great Western Loop anytime soon for right now but I owe my success in St. George to you guys.

5. B&L Bikes (http://www.blbikes.com) in Solana Beach.
The best bike shop for triathletes, hands-down. Your customer service is second-to-none. Dan-O can fix anything and fit anyone! Hope you guys liked the brownies!

6. Jennifer Janis, acupuncturist.
Not only is she an amazing healer but she's also full of positive, motivating energy. I'm always beaming when I leave her place. Thank you for your healing skills and encouraging words. (Also, all your ultrarunning tips!). You're a valuable mentor.

7. Jacyln Hannibal, massage therapit (Elite Bodyworkers http://www.cassidysclinic.com/)
You have magical hands! I wouldn't have stayed injury-free or been able to recover from all of my hard workouts without you!

8. My blogger friends.
You guys keep me honest and always believe in me. Thank you for all your motivation, advice, and kind words. You guys are amazing!

9. My friends and family
Last but not least. Thank you for your unconditional, undying support. You guys always believe in me.