Before embarking on any kind of race report on Ironman Canada this past weekend, I simply cannot continue until I have had the opportunity to thank the people who have supported and encouraged me along the way since starting this journey, both last year as an amateur, and this year as a professional.  3^rd place in my first Ironman as a professional would not have even been a glimmer of a possibility without you and I dedicate this entire blog to the following list of people:

 To my coach, Scott McMillan of Factor9 coaching for his unbelievably tireless efforts, day in and day out, in helping me to reach my potential in this wild and crazy sport.  I have never had a question unanswered, an idea not considered, and nor has he EVER been wrong in anything he has ever told me.  Ever. Even when I have my doubts about a plan that we have, I know that as long as I follow it to the letter that it will prove to be right in the end, and it always is.  I hold tremendous respect and admiration for you, not only as a coach and a mentor, but also as a friend.  Thank you, Scott, for all that you do, as not an inch of it has, or ever will, go unnoticed.  www.f9tc.com  

As well, who can forget his super duper wife, Sarah, who is not only one of the most enthusiastic and positive humans I’ve ever met, but who is so very cool, welcoming, and relaxed when I take over the spare room in their home when we put in those big volume days.  

To Rose, Brian, Richelle, and “the gang” at Tri-It in Calgary, Alberta.  Not only did you provide support and truly believe in me even before I had a triathlon race under my belt when I first walked into the store last year, but you took a gamble and took me under your wing when I needed it the most, when I just needed some help getting started.  This kind of support is priceless and I am so honoured to have you as friends and support on this journey.  You are more than just a ‘triathlon store.’  You are an incredible group of people who truly emulate the spirit of ‘living the dream.’ (And Madi…that visor will always be my favourite of all time.)  http://www.tri-it.ca/

To Tristan Brown, the TIMEX team, and all related sponsors for the incredible support you have already provided since I joined the TIMEX squad.  Thank you for believing in me and allowing me the opportunity to join the team as a professional athlete even before I had any professional results to stand on.  And Brian….the SUGOI Compression Socks are INCREDIBLE!!!  Not only has TIMEX provided me with high-end products and gear to help me achieve my goals, but the team is the coolest bunch of human beings ever.  A team TIMEX “camp” is like nothing one could ever experience and I cannot WAIT for next spring….Will…just make sure you bring the cape again…oh yah…and the purple lycra.    http://www.timexironman.com/Splash_Page.htm

To Heather Fuhr and Newton Running, for also giving me the opportunity to represent the most amazing running shoe on the planet earth that just screams “fast!”  I wouldn’t choose to race/train on any other shoe…and your support is so very much appreciated.  Plus I still get giddy whenever I receive an email from my personal hero, Heather Fuhr.  How cool is that?????  http://www.newtonrunning.com/

To Jay and Claudia at IMPACT magazine who made my “transition” from amateur athlete/teacher to full-time professional athlete a little easier by having my little story told to the public. Having the front cover on IMPACT magazine was such an incredible thing to have happen at that point in my new career and I thank you a million times over for believing in me enough to tell it to your tens of thousands of readers this past May/June.  http://www.impactmagazine.ca/    http://www.claudiakatzphotography.com/

To my family, who has never, not even once, failed to ensure that good luck wishes are sent before every single race.  As well, for supporting in any way that you can in this wild and crazy journey!!!

To Jenny and Brian, for being the best damn friends a person could ever ask for.  You are my heroes. 

To Cam at Rocky Mountain Soap Company, for being so generous and supportive, and ensuring that I am one pampered female athlete during a time when fancy soaps and lotions are not something that I can afford.  Just simply awesome!!!  http://www.rockymountainsoap.com/

To Scott Taylor and the Tribalistic Gang for being there to motivate me during my very first triathlon training camp last spring, and who continue to inspire and support so often.  You guys rule.

To all of you who send supportive emails and phone calls, as every single one means a ton!

And of course, to Eric, my fiancé, who has not wavered in his support in any way.  Not only are you there to listen on the good days, but also, and more importantly, you are there during those quiet moments where being an athlete is just plain tough.  The sacrifices that I am making to chase down this dream are also sacrifices that you make too, yet you never complain.  Not only that, but you are a trooper to have finished YOUR OWN Ironman this weekend under a situation that was less than easy or desirable.  Incredible…and thank you.