Ironman? DONE!

Yep, after a 9-month build-up, I have managed to complete an Ironman triathlon in Almere, The Netherlands on 27-Aug 2011!

Bondy crossing the finish line, figuring out exactly where he was going to collapse

It was a windy and rainy day which didn't help much 3.8km swim and 180km cycling stages, but at least the temperature was ok - 17-19 degrees. I finished the swim in 1:20 which was my target time.

Bondy keeping those wheels spinning

The cycling stage also went very well. I tried to keep above 30km/hr the whole way, but with the wind I came in just under 30km/hr for my average speed. I finished the cycle stage in 6:09.

I felt good in the first of 3 (14km) laps in the marathon, but at the start of the second lap I ground to a halt. No petrol in the tank. At the next drink station I had a banana and a sultana roll as well as a few drinks and then I saw Claire, Jake and Rik there to spur me on. I was back on track!!!

Bondy heading for the finish line

Soon after Mikey B and Willem arrived and they had both done the Austrian Ironman in 2010, so knew how I was feeling.

Bondy relying on his eyebrows to get him there

I managed to finish the marathon run (42.2km) in 5:24, giving a total time of 12:53 - 7 minutes ahead of my target finishing time!

So surprised and relieved to have completed it. NEVER AGAIN!!!!