Ironman brings on gratitude

In 12 days I'll be standing on a beach for the start of Ironman South Africa 70.3, a half-distance triathlon.

In 48 days from now I will again be standing on a beach. This is the biggie: Ironman African Championship, the full distance triathlon. This involves a 3,9km sea swim, 180km cycle and 42.2km run.

It has been over two years since I tackled a full triathlon. But I have trained four times for one as a events have been postponed since March 2020.

The mind-games I experience ahead of race are starting starting to manifest. Preparing mentally remains the most challenging part of my training.

But, that should be the least of my worries. Afterall, I choose to take part in these events. And I am grateful I have that choice.

I don't take lightly the regular day-to-day challenges life puts before us all.

The challenges - be they physical, emotional or financial - and needs of others are greater than any I have every had to face. I am acutely aware of this and grateful.

I take part in these events in support of the Ironman 4 the Kidz South Africa foundation.