The Glorious GLORIOUS Finish

People say there is nothing like it. And it's true, it is a feeling I have never even come close to having.

Kristin and Lauren got me up to State Street. I told them to turn right around the capital and wait for me at the finish. I had to go left, and would start running at the Walgreen's. More cheering, high 5's, and I was grinning ear to ear, still kind of in a bit of disbelief. I am talking to one guy from Mexico, his first Ironman too. He takes off on a run to finish. I hear Mike Riley's voice - the voice of Ironman, music, the crowds and it's better than I ever imagined.
2 people pass me and there are a few behind so I knew if I wanted the moment to my self, I had to run, and run now. So I did. I hear everyone cheering "GO AMANDA!!!" I keep looking, not sure who I know and who is just cheering, caught up in the energy that is an Ironman finish. So I keep running with a permanent smile. I see Jess, some other Teal shirts, and I just keep running.

They are playing "Shout" and I hear it.

"29 year old Amanda Chadwick from Washington DC, YOU ARE AN IRONMAN!" I really don't know how I didn't break down right there. What a moment. I hold the banner for a picture (as Ryan instructed me to know what to do when I crossed) and this is close enough. I keep running and see Erin ready with my medal. Give her a huge hug. My 'catcher' can't really keep up... She does get my shirt, hat and sliver blanket. My picture is taken. Am offered a Coke/Sprite, told where the food and medical tent are located and released.

After all of that, I finally get to see my Teal supports. Huge hug to Mom and Dad. And EVERYONE else, and the tears just come down. I know there is a totally kick butt group picture, but I am not sure who has it.

What a feeling. Really. I know I just said that, but really. Wow.

I think back to this year. And the day. It was better than I could have ever imagined. And to share it with those who love and care about me, more than I can put into words.

Many parts through out the day I knew I would finish, others I didn't think I could. I mentioned I had pain I had never felt before. But I also felt support I have never felt before. For every negative thought, feeling, moment I had, there were about 10 positive ones (NOTE - I do realize this is being written a week after the race...)

I was told it would be a day you do on your own. As much as that is true, I have to disagree, and I am so lucky to say that.

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU. You have all made this dream come true.