You’ve Already Won

One of my athletes sent me this message ahead of Challenge Roth this weekend:

“Indeed, I always remember that Don Fink (I think?) quote that by standing on the start line I am already winning at life – and I feel that very deeply. For me it’s been an interesting few years health wise so I will be smiling whatever I achieve on Sunday!”

That’s a lovely sentiment, and it’s one that resonates with a lot of long-course athletes.

The essence of the quote this athlete is referring to is something like:

“When you stand on the start line of an Ironman, you’ve already won. The race is simply the celebration of all the work you’ve done to get there.”

Whether those are Don Fink’s exact words or not, the idea is powerful.

“For me it’s been an interesting few years health-wise, so I’ll be smiling whatever I achieve on Sunday.”

That’s the perspective that can’t be measured by a finish time. After everything this athlete’s body has been through, getting back to another Ironman start line isn’t something to take for granted. The training has been done and there has been some rebuilding – physically and mentally. Sunday is an opportunity to enjoy the experience rather than prove anything.

Ironman is a long journey – firstly, to the start line and then to the finish line.  And success in this sport isn’t always about racing faster. Sometimes it’s simply about being healthy enough, fortunate enough, and determined enough to be there at all.

I hope, when this athlete stands on that start line, they take a moment to look around and think, I made it back. 

That’s a victory in itself.