Today was the first full day in Penticton and the buzz in the town is amazing, people cycling everywhere, running stores busier than any other time of year and every Starbucks lined up to the max. I started my day with a quick and easy 45min swim in Lake Okanagan, the temperature is around 68 degrees fahrenheit and there was quite a few people swimming for 7 a.m. I felt pretty good for having spent 10 hours in a car yesterday, the only problem is I’ve lost to much weight and my wetsuit seems a little to big on me so I might have to make a last minute purchase. I don’t really want to be using untested gear but the thing is falling off me, I guess that’s what happens when you lose 15 lbs in the last few weeks, it’s a problem I’m glad to have. Jacqueline and I went for a grocery shop, spent the afternoon on the beach with friends and then just chilled for the rest of the day..pretty relaxing, but needed.

I’m more anxious than nervous but none the less I have waves of emotion come over me, how will I feel if I can’t finish? How hard is the run going to be? Have I trained enough? Will I get cramps? I’m sure I’ll be able to handle anything the race throws at me but I want to make sure I’m mentally prepared for any situation so I can react appropriately and continue on. I know with all the support I’m receiving I’ll be able to draw on that energy and use it to keep going, take the next step or tackle the next mountain. I know people like Jimmy Mac will be following me online and I’ll want to soldier on for them too.

Am I scared of Sunday? No. I’m genuinely excited to see if I got what it takes to finish an Ironman. I can’t wait to experience the feeling of crossing the finish line and hugging my family and friends, they’ve been such a huge support for me over the last 8 months. I asked a question on my Facebook page a few weeks ago ” what’s harder Ironman or having your first baby?” EVERYONE that answered said unquestionably your first baby, funny thing none of them had finished an Ironman..??? Till tomorrow.

See you at the finish line,

MB