Having competed in triathlon for over 40 years I think I’ve earned the title of Iron Geezer. Unlike some of my tri-pals, I have not competed in Ironman events for 40 years, but I look at that as a technicality. Racing at age 69 this year I certainly qualify as a “geezer.”
The sport has changed a lot since 1983, and so have I. What hasn’t changed is the enjoyment of staying in shape (relatively) and the friends I’ve made along the way. Today, a day without exercise is rare and I wake up each morning to my lovely girlfriend (and previous coaching client).
Back in 1983 I couldn’t have fathomed that I’d still be racing at 69. I knew a couple guys my current age that were racing in their 50s, but racing at 70? Absurd!
Now I’m on the cusp of 70 and I can feel my career winding down. Not because my body is broken or anything but because the goals are becoming less numerous. Initially, it was about just finishing the race, then it became about getting on the podium, then it was qualifying for Kona (which I have five times), then it was about getting on the podium at Kona (or wherever the Ironman Worlds will be).
Yes, that’s my final goal. I have no idea if I’ll get there but I’m going to give it a good shot. I age-up to 70 on January 1, 2025, so that will be my best opportunity in a while. I actually thought I had a good shot at getting there in 2015 but I was injured and didn’t have a great Kona that year. Then, I thought I’d have a good shot in 2020 but you know what happened that year.
So, here I am, nearing the end of my triathlon life with one last goal. And while I’m fairly certain I’d be able to compete well into my 70s I don’t believe I will. However, if I don’t get there in 2025, I may try again in 2026, primarily because I really wanted to do it in Kona and the men’s Ironman World Championship is going to be in Nice, France again in 2025.
We’ll see what happens, but this Iron Geezer couldn’t be more grateful for all the experiences and friends I’ve collected along the way.
See you at the races!
Coach Ron
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