In the recent weeks, I've been humbled by the incredible people that have seen mine and Nash's Kona Inspired video and have reached out to us with desires to be part of the cause of Racing for Orphans with Down Syndrome. These are individuals that lead very busy lives and have many responsibilities with family and work yet still find the time to help in their own special way. Here is an example of an email I received from Katrina in Minnesota:
"Hi Brady,
I only recently learned of Reece's Rainbow and the orphans with Down Syndrome all over the world. Suffice it to say, I am changed forever. A little bit about me: I live in MN with my wonderful husband and five children. None are adopted ;) but that may one day change.....I am 37 years old and have been running for quite some time but only started running races about 4 years ago and not many at that. Only 2 marathons, a half, some5ks and my first 1 miler yesterday! Have you ever done one of those? HARD! I love running, I run almost every day and have for about 20 years or so. Racing stresses me out but I always love how I feel after. I push myself too hard but I always figure if you're going to do it, do it with everything you have right? I cannot think of a better motivation and purpose to race than for your "team". I would be SO PROUD to wear your shirt but I'm not sure what type of people you're looking for. I will do everything I can to support and promote your cause even w/o wearing the shirt. I had been back and forth about running races (I mostly run for fitness and enjoyment) but this would give me SUCH purpose!"
This is such a wonderful example of someone who learned of the desperate situation of these children and is acting on the feelings she has had to get involved. Thank you Katrina for your energy and willingness to be a part of this cause for these children!
Another example I'd like to share is that of someone I have a lot in common with. From John in Utah:
Brady
You finished!!! Wow.. what a day that must have been.... I just came across your story written in the Deseret News before ironman St George. Reece's Rainbow is quite the worthy cause. Knowing the conditions that day i was instantly overcome with nerves hoping you survived that swim. I was relieved and proud at the same time that you not only finished but did so well , and i dont even know you..... Although i do know your story... it is very similar to mine. My son Finnegan was born 6 years ago. I too held him briefly before being told the news he had Down Syndrome. I'm also very very proud that he is my son and quickly came to realize that just like many things in this world things are not always as they seem. He was blessed with good health to start with and has been a joy to be around.
I am "racing" ironman Couer D'Alene in June. I am raising money for the Stanford University medical school Center for Down Syndrome Research. I just wanted to drop you a note saying awesome job!
John is also taking something so dear to him, Down syndrome, and doing his part to make a difference by becoming an Ironman!
I could go on for hours showing example after example of individuals helping move this great cause along. I'm especially thankful for everyone's help in sharing the Kona Inspired video and voting each and every day! Our chances of making it to Kona look really good right now, but there's still some work left. I'll keep everyone posted as more details are shared with me. Have a great day!
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
By Small and Simple Things...
Yesterday afternoon I drove from Boise to Logan, Utah for work. After work I planned on staying at my dad's house in good ole' Preston, Idaho, 30 minutes north of Logan. On my way to Preston I decided to stop off at my grandparents house in Richmond, Utah. I'm so glad I did.
Richmond is a very small, one stop light town located right next to the Utah/Idaho border. The evening temperatures were settling in as I drove down the narrow winding road to my grandparents home. I initially was planning on stopping only for a minute, but I'm glad I stayed longer.
Time is much slower in Richmond. The views are stunning. There is an incredible mountain backdrop to the east and a view of the entire valley to the southwest that reminds you that there is a higher power behind all of this. The air was warm, but still crisp as the sun began to set. The farmers fields with the water from the sprinkler pipe made the crops more green than I ever remember seeing them. Everything was perfect, like something you would see in a painting or from a dream that you think about for days after you wake up.
After peeking into the kitchen and front room of the small home that my grandparents have called home longer than I have been alive, my search for their familiar faces turned up empty. I began to make my way around the huge yard that the family has deemed "Murray Park". In the very back of the yard, I could see someone bending over pulling weeds from one of the dozen flower beds. I made my way across the yard to find my grandmother working tirelessly as she has done for most of her life pulling the weeds that always seemed to find their way back to the flower beds. I felt guilty at first seeing my 78 year old grandmother working as hard as she was. She quickly reminded me that this was not work to her, but her "therapy" that she looked forward to each day. Pride quickly filled my chest. I was proud of my grandma and proud to call myself a Murray.
We slowly made our way back to the house where we found grandpa and my uncle James just getting back from changing the water. We had a great visit. They told me about the early summer they were having and how they worried that it would get so hot that summer that they worried about having enough water. They talked about their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren and the many adventures they were all having. I mainly listened. I wouldn't have it any other way.
When it came time for me to go, I found myself wishing the evening wouldn't come to an end. I had such a feeling of peace and love for my family. I reflected on growing up and the wonderful memories of sleeping on the trampoline, building tree houses as well as the challenges that we all face from time to time. I feel such an appreciation for family. They are always there for us through all circumstances, no matter what.
In my heart of hearts, I know the family is the most important aspect of our lives. Family truly is the central part of God's plan. I thank my Grandpa and Grandma Murray for their gentle reminder of this to me yesterday.
I was also reminded that together with so many of you, that we are actively working to make the dream of family come true for these precious children that at the moment don't have a family to depend on. What a blessing it is to get to work on their behalf. It is comforting to know that the seeds we are planting and nurturing today will mean a lifetime of moments similar to what I experienced yesterday for our precious little ones waiting for us in their makeshift homes. To each of them I say, your pain will only be for a small moment. There are many beautiful sunsets and hugs from Grandpa and Grandma in the future. You are in our thoughts and prayers. We are coming for you...
Richmond is a very small, one stop light town located right next to the Utah/Idaho border. The evening temperatures were settling in as I drove down the narrow winding road to my grandparents home. I initially was planning on stopping only for a minute, but I'm glad I stayed longer.
Time is much slower in Richmond. The views are stunning. There is an incredible mountain backdrop to the east and a view of the entire valley to the southwest that reminds you that there is a higher power behind all of this. The air was warm, but still crisp as the sun began to set. The farmers fields with the water from the sprinkler pipe made the crops more green than I ever remember seeing them. Everything was perfect, like something you would see in a painting or from a dream that you think about for days after you wake up.
After peeking into the kitchen and front room of the small home that my grandparents have called home longer than I have been alive, my search for their familiar faces turned up empty. I began to make my way around the huge yard that the family has deemed "Murray Park". In the very back of the yard, I could see someone bending over pulling weeds from one of the dozen flower beds. I made my way across the yard to find my grandmother working tirelessly as she has done for most of her life pulling the weeds that always seemed to find their way back to the flower beds. I felt guilty at first seeing my 78 year old grandmother working as hard as she was. She quickly reminded me that this was not work to her, but her "therapy" that she looked forward to each day. Pride quickly filled my chest. I was proud of my grandma and proud to call myself a Murray.
We slowly made our way back to the house where we found grandpa and my uncle James just getting back from changing the water. We had a great visit. They told me about the early summer they were having and how they worried that it would get so hot that summer that they worried about having enough water. They talked about their children, grandchildren and great grandchildren and the many adventures they were all having. I mainly listened. I wouldn't have it any other way.
When it came time for me to go, I found myself wishing the evening wouldn't come to an end. I had such a feeling of peace and love for my family. I reflected on growing up and the wonderful memories of sleeping on the trampoline, building tree houses as well as the challenges that we all face from time to time. I feel such an appreciation for family. They are always there for us through all circumstances, no matter what.
In my heart of hearts, I know the family is the most important aspect of our lives. Family truly is the central part of God's plan. I thank my Grandpa and Grandma Murray for their gentle reminder of this to me yesterday.
I was also reminded that together with so many of you, that we are actively working to make the dream of family come true for these precious children that at the moment don't have a family to depend on. What a blessing it is to get to work on their behalf. It is comforting to know that the seeds we are planting and nurturing today will mean a lifetime of moments similar to what I experienced yesterday for our precious little ones waiting for us in their makeshift homes. To each of them I say, your pain will only be for a small moment. There are many beautiful sunsets and hugs from Grandpa and Grandma in the future. You are in our thoughts and prayers. We are coming for you...
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Ironman St. George Race Report
The Ironman St. George experience started Wednesday morning when my good friend Derek Morris and I loaded the bikes into his truck to start our 9 hour journey to St. George. It was a relaxing day, no workouts, just driving and enjoying the moment. Upon arriving in St. George, Derek and I met up with another good friend, Doug Brasher, and we all settled into our condo we later named "The Athletes Village".
After a great nights sleep we went and registered for the race on Thursday morning. This was my first exposure to the literally thousands of volunteers from St. George who would continue to be my life line for the next few days. There optimism and willingness to help at any given moment was so appreciated. Thank you volunteers!
Earlier that morning I received an email from Ironman asking if they could do an interview with me about my Kona Inspired video and our cause for Racing for Orphans with Down Syndrome. I was honored that they would ask and very thankful for the exposure that we were getting for these incredible children. At the athlete registration I met up with Dave Erickson who was on site covering the event for Ironman. Dave was great! He was a very upbeat and optimistic guy. After the interview and a few cut aways of Derek and I walking around the expo we were done. Thank you Ironman and Dave for that great opportunity! You can see the interview HERE:
That afternoon we went for a swim at the swim location, Sand Hollow Reservoir and had a short ride. The anticipation was starting to build and in my heart, I wished the race was the next day. Waiting around for Saturday to come was tough.
Thursday night I didn't sleep well. I felt groggy in the morning, but it passed. We made all our last minute preparations and dropped our bikes off at T1 (the swim to bike transition) and went back to the Athletes Village to rest. I took a few hours and watched one of my favorite movies of all time, Cinderella Man. I believe this movie portrays better than most the strength that comes when you are motivated by cause. Doug made us dinner and one of the highlights of the week happened, Andrea arrived. It was so good to see her. She has a way to put my mind at ease and gives me an incredible amount of confidence. I love her dearly.
Sleep came quickly that night and before I knew it, it was 2:45am, time to wake up and start a very special day. We were bused from downtown St. George to the swim site, about a 20 minute ride. It was dark but I could see the huge lights from T1 from the freeway. I reflected on the journey to get here and once again, was overcome with emotion. I'm normally not an emotional person, but something about those kids and the gratitude in my heart to get to do this for them really gets to me. It still does even writing this.
Conditions were perfect and they announced that the latest weather forecast showed mild conditions and temperatures in the low 80's. St. George is know for punishing winds but it looked like we were going to get lucky today. About that moment I felt the slightest breeze. Little did I know, it was a sign of things to come.
Putting on my wetsuit is always a transforming moment for me. I love competition and I love to compete and it was time to do just that! The water felt great. It was a site to see treading water out by the start line looking back at the spectators lined up and down the shore. I've never tread water while someone sang the national anthem before. Not an easy task holding your hand over your heart! I was ready to race!
The course is a big rectangle. We were just finishing up the first stretch, about 3/4 of a mile when I noticed that there were some swells starting. No big deal, that's what happens in the middle of a big reservoir. I made the turn at the corner and was immediately slammed by a big wave. I thought, "who the heck is out here in a boat making wakes?!" Then another hit me. I looked up and could see white caps all around. I then realized that the wind was blowing like no other and that I was in for a long day. I continued to try and swim, now swimming across the white caps. This was nuts! I could see other swimmers treading water trying to regain their bearings. Seeing the buoys was next to impossible because of all the spray coming off the white caps and the huge swells. I was very thankful that we got the swim started before this wind storm blew in because otherwise there was no way Ironman would have let us swim in these conditions.
I continued to battle to the next turn. Now it was time to go directly into the waves and wind. During the swim, there are dozens of kayaks and people on long boards out there providing support and help when needed. After the turn I saw one of the kayaks tipped over and holding on to his kayak. I also saw a boat full of swimmers making their way back to shore. There were at least a hundred athletes that called it quits for the day during the swim. At one point in time there was a life flight helicopter hovering overhead. I said a silent prayer in my heart that we'd all make it out ok. These are a few comments I've seen on different websites about the swim:
"This was my first ever triathlon and I have never been that scared in my life. At one point I looked around and couldn't see another person, boat, buoys, etc. It turned into survival mode for me. Finally I swam to a buoy and clung for dear life. Just then a boat came by and told me that I had gotten incredibly off course and that I probably couldn't make the time cut off. I swam anyway and by a true miracle barely made it in time. I saw grown men sobbing in the T1 tent. It looked like a medic tent in a war zone."
"At one point I felt like I was in National Guard Training! Last year I swam the same course in a 1:13, this year at the one hour mark I was less than a mile in and disoriented and panicked. It was time to get out. When the kayaks are capsizing and athletes are clinging to race buoys? I think it is safe to say it was crazy."
"I was one of the volunteers on a kayak, and I could barely paddle against the wind and waves, I couldn't imagine swimming in that water. I saw people being pushed off their stand up paddle boards from the wind. We all just kept thinking, "I hope the swimmers that are still out there are ok" We were told that only about 6 life boats and kayaks were still out there helping."
At no point did I ever feel unsafe or worried that I wouldn't make it through the swim, but it changed the way I approached the rest of the swim. I wanted to conserve energy because I knew I still needed to bike 112 miles and run a marathon, but I also knew if I didn't swim hard I was going to be going backwards with the waves. Not being able to see the buoys, I found an island that I knew was going in the right direction. I swam and luckily the island kept getting bigger so I knew I was making progress. Finally after what seemed like a very long swim, the swim out transition was in site. Stepping foot on the boat ramp was great. When I stood up, I was almost blown over by a gust of wind and that's when I realized the biking portion was going to be interesting.
My first turn on the bike course put me directly into the headwind and a mouthful of sand. I know how important it is to have a positive attitude during these races. I refused to let any negative thoughts come to mind. I started joking around with some of the other cyclists which helped lighten the mood, but it was still a little daunting to consider that not only did I have 112 miles in front of me on an already difficult course, but that the hardest stretch of the course would be straight into a 20-30 mph headwind. I settled in and just kept peddling.
I felt good and was keeping on top of my nutrition. Around 30 miles in is where I really hit the wind. For the next 20 miles I was going directly into the wind and was moving at a snails pace. Everyone had their head down and was grinding it out. There are some big climbs during that portion of the race. We were all getting a baptism by fire of what it means to be an Ironman. Mentally my mind would drift briefly into a pity party, but I would quickly pull it back. At this point in the race I really had to focus on my purpose for doing the Ironman. I remembered the support from everyone and the prayers being offered on my behalf. It helped tremendously.
Around mile 50 we turned and now had a tailwind now. What a relief! We were all FLYING through the course. At one point in time I was on a flat straightaway and looked at my speed. I was going 40mph. It felt great! I also got to ride with Doug for a while which was great. Being halfway through the ride and onto the second lap of the course was encouraging. The only challenge is I had to fight through the dreaded 20 mile uphill stretch again. Luckily the wind wasn't as bad but still present. I paced myself and continued to have a good attitude. I love interacting with the fans and people watching the race. I'll never pass up an opportunity to give someone a high five or thumbs up. Half the battle was just having fun and enjoying the experience.
Mile 112 finally arrived and I hopped off my bike. Wow! My thighs were on fire! I had been on my bike for 6 and a half hours straight and trying to run through the transition area was kind of comical. I'm sure I looked pretty funny. I sat down and quickly put my shoes on. Time to stand back up and face the marathon. I started to run and my legs were gone. I was a little concerned, but I kept saying, "put one foot in front of the other, one step at a time". I did this and literally had to keep telling myself this every step for the first 6 miles. I had a good pace, my heart rate was great, but my legs were hammered. I hate to keep referencing this, but I stayed positive and that made all the difference even though my body kept screaming to stop running. Around mile 7 something amazing happened. My legs came back and I felt a renewed sense of energy. I'm not sure how or what happened, but I felt much better. I kept a good pace and continued to push. The miles continued to pass but the effort required to get through them increased.
I loved seeing Andrea and all those who I knew while I was running. It helped tremendously. By mile 20 I was out of gas physically. My legs hurt like they've never hurt before. I was dizzy and my body was begging for me to stop. I've read about this before. I've read that the last 6 miles of an Ironman is all heart. I could now understand what they meant. I had to dig deeper than I've ever had to in a race. I knew I was getting close, but I knew running 6 miles wasn't something I could just coast through so I did the only thing I could do, put on a smile. I ran by Andrea about this time and had a huge grin on my face. I'm sure everyone that saw me thought I must have been dogging it or that I wasn't working hard, but believe me, physically I was spent, but mentally I refused to give in. The miles continued to pass and the finish line got closer and closer.
On the final turn off of Diagonal street it hit me, only about a mile to go and I would be an Ironman. Tears welled up in my eyes and the pain of the day began to pass. I could hear Mike Reilly, the voice of Ironman, saying "You are an Ironman" to those crossing the finish line and I knew it would be my turn soon. I couldn't help but think once again about the amazing support from so many. I again visited in my mind the images of these children and how badly I want them to find their forever family.
I made my final turn and entered the chute that all Ironman finishers dream of running down. Excitement overcame me and I felt better than I had felt all day. Then I heard it, "BRADY MURRAY, YOU ARE AN IRONMAN!" as I crossed the finish line. The race was over. I had finished. I had finished an Ironman!
Andrea was the first person I got to hug. We hugged like we had been apart for an eternity. What a great moment.
I've learned a lot from being a part of this. I learned just how important it is to stay positive. Life will give us crashing waves, huge headwinds and long distances but there is NOTHING that will be thrown at us that we can't handle. I learned that if we have sincere desires to serve and be part of something that is bigger than any one person, that those opportunities will be given to us. I learned how important it is to surround yourself with positive support. Everyone from family, to friends, to coworkers. Positive and encouraging people make all the difference.
So now what you may ask? My commitment as a husband to Andrea, and the father of my children will always be my #1 priority. I have an unwavering commitment to my faith, my extended family and friends and to my employer. With that being said, I feel like during the last 6 months we have just written a great introduction to a book that is going to have a very happy ending for many orphans with Down syndrome. I did not sign up as a temporary volunteer for this cause. Andrea and I feel that this is something we will be a part of for the rest of our lives. Together with anyone who has a genuine desire to be involved, we will work tirelessly until every child has a forever family!
Priorities for the cause at the moment are to find a way to win the Kona Inspired competition, race at the Ironman World Championships and most importantly share these children's story with the world! I plan on racing the Boise 70.3 (half Ironman) in June for the children as well. In addition, I hope to find opportunities to present and share these children's story in as many group settings as possible. I really enjoy public speaking and that is a wonderful way to share the message. We are also about $2,000 shy of reaching our goal for Maggie. That is something we hope to have taken care of sooner than later.
I also want to grow the RODS Racing team. To become involved is very simple. You simply need to have a desire to become part of this cause and a willingness to use your talents and abilities unique to you on behalf of these children. I'll post more about RODS in the future, please feel free to contact me if you would like to learn more.
I want to wrap up this blog post by saying that I know that EACH AND EVERY ONE OF US has unique talents and abilities that have been given to us. What we do with these talents and abilities are dependant upon us. We can use these talents and abilities for much good if we choose to or we can allow fear and idleness to steal our opportunity. Listen to those thoughts that come to your mind and your heart. If you listen and act there will be many individuals who you will inspire, motivate, and truly make a difference for in so many small and simple ways and occasionally in big ways. One step at a time, we all can and will make a difference!
After a great nights sleep we went and registered for the race on Thursday morning. This was my first exposure to the literally thousands of volunteers from St. George who would continue to be my life line for the next few days. There optimism and willingness to help at any given moment was so appreciated. Thank you volunteers!
Earlier that morning I received an email from Ironman asking if they could do an interview with me about my Kona Inspired video and our cause for Racing for Orphans with Down Syndrome. I was honored that they would ask and very thankful for the exposure that we were getting for these incredible children. At the athlete registration I met up with Dave Erickson who was on site covering the event for Ironman. Dave was great! He was a very upbeat and optimistic guy. After the interview and a few cut aways of Derek and I walking around the expo we were done. Thank you Ironman and Dave for that great opportunity! You can see the interview HERE:
That afternoon we went for a swim at the swim location, Sand Hollow Reservoir and had a short ride. The anticipation was starting to build and in my heart, I wished the race was the next day. Waiting around for Saturday to come was tough.
Thursday night I didn't sleep well. I felt groggy in the morning, but it passed. We made all our last minute preparations and dropped our bikes off at T1 (the swim to bike transition) and went back to the Athletes Village to rest. I took a few hours and watched one of my favorite movies of all time, Cinderella Man. I believe this movie portrays better than most the strength that comes when you are motivated by cause. Doug made us dinner and one of the highlights of the week happened, Andrea arrived. It was so good to see her. She has a way to put my mind at ease and gives me an incredible amount of confidence. I love her dearly.
Sleep came quickly that night and before I knew it, it was 2:45am, time to wake up and start a very special day. We were bused from downtown St. George to the swim site, about a 20 minute ride. It was dark but I could see the huge lights from T1 from the freeway. I reflected on the journey to get here and once again, was overcome with emotion. I'm normally not an emotional person, but something about those kids and the gratitude in my heart to get to do this for them really gets to me. It still does even writing this.
Conditions were perfect and they announced that the latest weather forecast showed mild conditions and temperatures in the low 80's. St. George is know for punishing winds but it looked like we were going to get lucky today. About that moment I felt the slightest breeze. Little did I know, it was a sign of things to come.
Putting on my wetsuit is always a transforming moment for me. I love competition and I love to compete and it was time to do just that! The water felt great. It was a site to see treading water out by the start line looking back at the spectators lined up and down the shore. I've never tread water while someone sang the national anthem before. Not an easy task holding your hand over your heart! I was ready to race!
The cannon sounded and just like that we were off. Something amazing about a full Ironman is all the athletes start at the same time. There were 1432 swimmers all bunched together and all trying to make there way through the water. You get kicked, smacked, and pushed but it is awesome! I love the swim start! I got into a group of swimmers and everything felt perfect. We were making great time. The swim buoys seemed to be flying by one after another.
The course is a big rectangle. We were just finishing up the first stretch, about 3/4 of a mile when I noticed that there were some swells starting. No big deal, that's what happens in the middle of a big reservoir. I made the turn at the corner and was immediately slammed by a big wave. I thought, "who the heck is out here in a boat making wakes?!" Then another hit me. I looked up and could see white caps all around. I then realized that the wind was blowing like no other and that I was in for a long day. I continued to try and swim, now swimming across the white caps. This was nuts! I could see other swimmers treading water trying to regain their bearings. Seeing the buoys was next to impossible because of all the spray coming off the white caps and the huge swells. I was very thankful that we got the swim started before this wind storm blew in because otherwise there was no way Ironman would have let us swim in these conditions.
"This was my first ever triathlon and I have never been that scared in my life. At one point I looked around and couldn't see another person, boat, buoys, etc. It turned into survival mode for me. Finally I swam to a buoy and clung for dear life. Just then a boat came by and told me that I had gotten incredibly off course and that I probably couldn't make the time cut off. I swam anyway and by a true miracle barely made it in time. I saw grown men sobbing in the T1 tent. It looked like a medic tent in a war zone."
"I was one of the volunteers on a kayak, and I could barely paddle against the wind and waves, I couldn't imagine swimming in that water. I saw people being pushed off their stand up paddle boards from the wind. We all just kept thinking, "I hope the swimmers that are still out there are ok" We were told that only about 6 life boats and kayaks were still out there helping."
At no point did I ever feel unsafe or worried that I wouldn't make it through the swim, but it changed the way I approached the rest of the swim. I wanted to conserve energy because I knew I still needed to bike 112 miles and run a marathon, but I also knew if I didn't swim hard I was going to be going backwards with the waves. Not being able to see the buoys, I found an island that I knew was going in the right direction. I swam and luckily the island kept getting bigger so I knew I was making progress. Finally after what seemed like a very long swim, the swim out transition was in site. Stepping foot on the boat ramp was great. When I stood up, I was almost blown over by a gust of wind and that's when I realized the biking portion was going to be interesting.
My first turn on the bike course put me directly into the headwind and a mouthful of sand. I know how important it is to have a positive attitude during these races. I refused to let any negative thoughts come to mind. I started joking around with some of the other cyclists which helped lighten the mood, but it was still a little daunting to consider that not only did I have 112 miles in front of me on an already difficult course, but that the hardest stretch of the course would be straight into a 20-30 mph headwind. I settled in and just kept peddling.
I felt good and was keeping on top of my nutrition. Around 30 miles in is where I really hit the wind. For the next 20 miles I was going directly into the wind and was moving at a snails pace. Everyone had their head down and was grinding it out. There are some big climbs during that portion of the race. We were all getting a baptism by fire of what it means to be an Ironman. Mentally my mind would drift briefly into a pity party, but I would quickly pull it back. At this point in the race I really had to focus on my purpose for doing the Ironman. I remembered the support from everyone and the prayers being offered on my behalf. It helped tremendously.
Around mile 50 we turned and now had a tailwind now. What a relief! We were all FLYING through the course. At one point in time I was on a flat straightaway and looked at my speed. I was going 40mph. It felt great! I also got to ride with Doug for a while which was great. Being halfway through the ride and onto the second lap of the course was encouraging. The only challenge is I had to fight through the dreaded 20 mile uphill stretch again. Luckily the wind wasn't as bad but still present. I paced myself and continued to have a good attitude. I love interacting with the fans and people watching the race. I'll never pass up an opportunity to give someone a high five or thumbs up. Half the battle was just having fun and enjoying the experience.
I loved seeing Andrea and all those who I knew while I was running. It helped tremendously. By mile 20 I was out of gas physically. My legs hurt like they've never hurt before. I was dizzy and my body was begging for me to stop. I've read about this before. I've read that the last 6 miles of an Ironman is all heart. I could now understand what they meant. I had to dig deeper than I've ever had to in a race. I knew I was getting close, but I knew running 6 miles wasn't something I could just coast through so I did the only thing I could do, put on a smile. I ran by Andrea about this time and had a huge grin on my face. I'm sure everyone that saw me thought I must have been dogging it or that I wasn't working hard, but believe me, physically I was spent, but mentally I refused to give in. The miles continued to pass and the finish line got closer and closer.
On the final turn off of Diagonal street it hit me, only about a mile to go and I would be an Ironman. Tears welled up in my eyes and the pain of the day began to pass. I could hear Mike Reilly, the voice of Ironman, saying "You are an Ironman" to those crossing the finish line and I knew it would be my turn soon. I couldn't help but think once again about the amazing support from so many. I again visited in my mind the images of these children and how badly I want them to find their forever family.
I made my final turn and entered the chute that all Ironman finishers dream of running down. Excitement overcame me and I felt better than I had felt all day. Then I heard it, "BRADY MURRAY, YOU ARE AN IRONMAN!" as I crossed the finish line. The race was over. I had finished. I had finished an Ironman!
Andrea was the first person I got to hug. We hugged like we had been apart for an eternity. What a great moment.
I've learned a lot from being a part of this. I learned just how important it is to stay positive. Life will give us crashing waves, huge headwinds and long distances but there is NOTHING that will be thrown at us that we can't handle. I learned that if we have sincere desires to serve and be part of something that is bigger than any one person, that those opportunities will be given to us. I learned how important it is to surround yourself with positive support. Everyone from family, to friends, to coworkers. Positive and encouraging people make all the difference.
So now what you may ask? My commitment as a husband to Andrea, and the father of my children will always be my #1 priority. I have an unwavering commitment to my faith, my extended family and friends and to my employer. With that being said, I feel like during the last 6 months we have just written a great introduction to a book that is going to have a very happy ending for many orphans with Down syndrome. I did not sign up as a temporary volunteer for this cause. Andrea and I feel that this is something we will be a part of for the rest of our lives. Together with anyone who has a genuine desire to be involved, we will work tirelessly until every child has a forever family!
Priorities for the cause at the moment are to find a way to win the Kona Inspired competition, race at the Ironman World Championships and most importantly share these children's story with the world! I plan on racing the Boise 70.3 (half Ironman) in June for the children as well. In addition, I hope to find opportunities to present and share these children's story in as many group settings as possible. I really enjoy public speaking and that is a wonderful way to share the message. We are also about $2,000 shy of reaching our goal for Maggie. That is something we hope to have taken care of sooner than later.
I also want to grow the RODS Racing team. To become involved is very simple. You simply need to have a desire to become part of this cause and a willingness to use your talents and abilities unique to you on behalf of these children. I'll post more about RODS in the future, please feel free to contact me if you would like to learn more.
Friday, May 4, 2012
This Day
There is less than 24 hours until the cannon goes off to start the 2012 St. George Ironman. What seemed like would never arrive has arrived and I couldn't be more excited. I've been in St. George the last 2 days and have been filled with many emotions. Excitement to finally get to put myself to the test in a Ironman. Peace of mind knowing that I've done everything in my power to train and prepare for this day. That ever present uneasiness in my gut not knowing exactly what to expect. Gratitude to get to race not for myself but for all the precious children with Down syndrome waiting for their family.
I continue to reflect on the last 6 months since being introduced to Reece's Rainbow. I can't look at a picture of Eli lately and not get choked up. I also feel a sense of urgency for Maggie and Megan. They have the funding in place, we just need their family to find them.
Today feels like a crossroads. I don't know what will come in the future for the children, RODS Racing, and the role that my beautiful family and I will play. What I do know is that I feel a burning desire like I've never felt before to stand up and fight for these kids. To tell the world their story and save each and every one of them, one child at a time!
I think of my son Nash and his innocence. I remember when Andrea held Nash right after he was born, after we found out he had Down syndrome. The look in her eyes of unwavering commitment and love still brings peace to me knowing that all will workout as it should and that this child is part of a bigger plan.
I think of my sweet little 6 year old princess and what a protector she is for her brothers. I think of my very active 2 year old son. The way he looks at me. I want to make him proud of his Dad. Of course I think of the love of my life and the 10 years we've been married. How did I get so lucky to get to spend my life with her!
So here we go! In recognition of what's to come tomorrow, enjoy this video about the St. George Ironman. Let's do this!
I continue to reflect on the last 6 months since being introduced to Reece's Rainbow. I can't look at a picture of Eli lately and not get choked up. I also feel a sense of urgency for Maggie and Megan. They have the funding in place, we just need their family to find them.
Today feels like a crossroads. I don't know what will come in the future for the children, RODS Racing, and the role that my beautiful family and I will play. What I do know is that I feel a burning desire like I've never felt before to stand up and fight for these kids. To tell the world their story and save each and every one of them, one child at a time!
I think of my son Nash and his innocence. I remember when Andrea held Nash right after he was born, after we found out he had Down syndrome. The look in her eyes of unwavering commitment and love still brings peace to me knowing that all will workout as it should and that this child is part of a bigger plan.
I think of my sweet little 6 year old princess and what a protector she is for her brothers. I think of my very active 2 year old son. The way he looks at me. I want to make him proud of his Dad. Of course I think of the love of my life and the 10 years we've been married. How did I get so lucky to get to spend my life with her!
So here we go! In recognition of what's to come tomorrow, enjoy this video about the St. George Ironman. Let's do this!
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