I have lost tabs on how often over time I have been asked why I commit so much of time to preparing for another Ironman.

For a long period I discovered that it is hard to come up with a reasonable response, because often I wasn't sure myself. I believe what makes it difficult, is goals change as time pass and so would the solution to the question.

At first like numerous others, I was "Ironstruck". When I first saw this event I was drawn toward it and made a decision that I just needed to cross that finish line. Even though I couldn't swim a stroke coupled with never been on a racing bike I had been compelled by some unseen force to achieve this race.

Once I on purpose made the decision, there was no turning back and my life took on a new way. It had been easily a vey important and life-changing decision I have ever made. It touched each and every part of my life.

At 56 years old I can't plan to do an Ironman yearly from here on. However I've learned from my long Ironman career how important maintaining a healthy lifetstyle is to a persons quality of life.

My plan's to do my next Ironman within my 60th year. There's no confusion "why" any more once i am asked that question just as before.

By setting that goal, I understand that I will need to stay fit between now and then. Additionally, it ensures that when that starting gun goes off 4 years from now, I'll go into my 60's in absolute peak condition. Probably among the fittest 60 year olds in the world. Really not necessarily a bad group to take part in at that stage in ones life. How that particular race turns out really has no effect on anything. Just which makes it there is reward by itself.

I strongly believe how successful or rich one is won't really make a great deal of difference when a twist of fate strips everything away and makes people from all walks of life materially equal and dependent by themselves physical strength, courage, and adaptibility to live.

The world is beginning to change and events like 9-11 and hurricane Katrina are examples of catastrophic events that knew no boundaries and in an instant left individuals with nothing but the ability they possessed within themselves to a minimum of provide a fighting possiblity to survive.

Certainly it doesn't mean people have to start training for the Ironman Triathlon-- just about the most challenging events in the world. However, to satisfy the unexpected circumstance of an ever-changing world, it behooves we all to care for our physical well-being to the very best of our capability. At all ages and yes, even while we settle into the retirement years.

Perhaps the easiest method to explain i mean , an example I used in a previous article.

20 years ago, had I discovered myself in the middle of a lake, 5 miles from shore with no lifejacket--I might have drowned in 2 or 3 minutes. Now it will be a chance for a long training swim.

The Ironman has given me that ability and that confidence. I owe this excellent event so much.