Ironman 2010 Race Report
I’ve developed a plan for racing that is basically a non-plan.  I’ve just sort of let my racing handle itself, signing up with friends, taking the advice of my personal hero; Coach Carla, and trying new things once in a while. 
Coming to sign up for Ironman was a bit of a fluke, following the Coach and my training buddies up to Madison last year to volunteer and finding myself in line, hungover, on Monday.  There really couldn’t be a non-strategy afterward, unfortunately it took a really rotten marathon for me to figure it out…proper nutrition and hydration are probably more important than fast transitions, who figured?
As for the race:  From Friday through Monday I was constantly amazed at the zeal and concern exhibited by the thousands of volunteers and the wonderful participants that I had the chance to visit with over three days including the 14 or so hours of participation during this impeccably run event.
My primary purpose for this race report, however, surrounds Multisport Madness and the terrific people that make up its leadership and membership.  Triathlon, by no stretch of the imagination, is inexpensive as everyone knows.  With economic issues in the US devastating my industry the goal of completing Ironman during my 50th year was a bit daunting for my family.  Additionally, some early season problems with my bicycle created what, to me, has become one of the most humbling yet tangible examples of what Multisport Madness is:  A group of concerned, caring individuals who thrive on the achievements of others and provide a support structure to members and surrounding communities that is nothing short of amazing.
From Carla’s food drive when the Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry was desperately low to help for an aging poser triathlete who needed a new bike to replace the award winning, yet crippled Bianchi he loves so dearly, the outpouring of support by MSM members was been incredible…but typical!
I’m proud to be a part of this club.  I cherish the friendships that I’ve made with some truly wonderful people through hours of cycling, running (jogging) and swimming (especially after Carla let me remove the floaties).  I plan to continue to fly the MSM colors proudly as I meander through the carelessly planned multi-sport future.
Mike Rossell