Coach T Rally

What a way to wrap up my 12th and final MCM coaching cheerfest! From the misty dark glow that carried me to the start line, easily finding my fabulous athletes properly layered for the chilly morning and still ready for the sun that we knew would arrive later, getting beyond the cannons to cheer them and every other runner that followed them into Rosslyn and the big climb that awaits. The timing of the races is amazing! The 50k racers (largest held in the US) are off just as the marathoners arrive, then just as I walk back to my 25 mile spot from cheering the marathon start, the 10k racers are coming through for their finish. Loved getting to see athlete Cindy fly by at the 5 mile mark so fast I couldn't get a picture until she was past. After a good rally for the full 10k pack, it was time to welcome the amazing hand cyclists and first marathon finisher. My apologies to our beloved local phenom, , who I called out an added cheer to after he had passed. I think it must have confused him because he turned and almost tripped trying to see who the crazy was screaming at him. Kudos for the amazing 50k 2nd place finish! And from there on it was cowbell, cheers, encouragements, run rallies with former athletes, friends, and the like -- until I got to rally all three of my amazing athletes in for the finish. The weather really was one of the best I've seen but still classic MCM - with the cold start and sunny bright finish. Congrats to all who conquered the day. I will miss being there but know there will be other cowbells that will do the honor in my place. So proud of my athletes for crushing their first marathon, and conquering the challenges this course brings, staying positive and determined all the way to the finish despite it. Regardless of the long walk to the start, this race is executed with amazing precision and support by the military and others alike. It's a tough course but the crowds, the marines, and the iconic scenery, make it one you have to do at least - if not just once!

Our efforts to honor this day by running to and by the Pentagon 9-11 Memorial got detoured by POTUS’s pending arrival but the power of this image even from our perimeter view remains the same. Never forget.

I have been at the finish line with my amazing athletes for the past 12 years - from 5k to marathon to Ironman distances. Being proud of the work we’ve achieved together never gets old. I will forever celebrate moments like this. Congratulations .jeb on your first Ironman and to all the victories that await!

Wow, look at the fun heading to my hometown area this weekend! A fun new format to triathlon racing and a great way to bring a new mode of racing to these classic raceways! Oh by the way, if you are there cheering or racing or visiting the Finger Lakes for any reason, check out Wags to Riches on Main Street in Watkins Glen. Wags is a consignment shop that provides 100% of its profits to the Humane Society of Schuyler County! Shameless plug but it's not just about triathlon, am I right?

CLASH Endurance Watkins Glen Set for Saturday Jason West, Andrew Starykowicz and Haley Chura and Sophie West will headline second 2022 CLASH race of the season.