Racing Reflections at Toughman - by Eric Goodman

The people that motivate me are the people that may be overweight, that have been battling an unfortunate disease, recovering from an addiction, or just trading their couch and TV for a bike and a wetsuit.  The men and women that athletics do not come easy to or had to make a very disciplined choice to get up and push/pull themselves out of physical and mental depths and places I could not imagine. The persons that train and dedicate time and effort levels outside the normal weekend warrior to accomplish a half-iron race.  Some had this race or other races on their bucket list as a one-time event, others will continue to better themselves and their health by striving for internal growth, and in many situations using a measure of internal strength that in my opinion is a greater accomplishment than any other.

As I ran Toughman I could see this strength in the eyes of the plethora of participants. It was emotional and inspiring. The bands, cheerleaders, and volunteers were wonderful but to see the handicapped, the ex-smokers, the rebound dieters, and the ex-high school jocks that had life thrown at them over the years but now have chosen to stand up and take action to reach their health and fitness goals.  That is what makes the triathlon community and the Targetraining members so special. That’s what makes you an Iron-man a Toughman!

TARGETRAINING congratulates everyone who participated in races this weekend! Great job to all - you continue to inspire and amaze us.