Starting a 2012 recap is a somewhat daunting process. Especially when you consider that I started 2012 with the goal of going from runner to Ironman finisher.
At this exact time last year I was starting my Ironman journey and had no idea what it would really entail. I never imagined that I would close out 2012 with a DNS on the goal of a lifetime and still rehabbing a bum ankle, but looking back, I once again realize that my dad was right, “It’s not always about the goal, but about the journey.”
Here’s a look at my 2012 journey:
After signing up for an Ironman and getting my act together, I was nervous with my beginner gear, but eventually pulled myself together to go for my first group ride and realized that this cycling thing was going to be pretty amazing.
Was called a “Fred” and thrown for a loop.
I hired a coach.
I completed my first duathlon and took super sexy finisher photos.
I celebrated ruined Valentine’s Day in the most humiliating way possible.
We added a new member to our family: Dora.
I ran a new half marathon PR, but missed breaking 1:30 by seven seconds.
I was reminded of who I was and why I do this.
I saw Aron accomplish a major goal – 50 miles!
I bought and squeezed into one of triathlon’s most attractive pieces: the wetsuit.
I did my first open water swim and was introduced to my nemesis: open water anxiety. I eventually made some sort of progress.
I raced my first sprint triathlon and placed 3rd in my age group.
My family came to California to watch me race my first international distance triathlon.
I went to Napa, became an Oakley Women ambassador and met some amazing women.
I completed my first half Ironman: Vineman 70.3.
We celebrated our first wedding anniversary with a trip to Sonoma and a hot air balloon ride.
I dealt with a horrible knee injury due to cycling and found out the importance of regular sports massage, rolling and ART.
I found out my little sister was expecting and I’m going to be an aunt!
I made amazing new cycling friends that kept me sane during long training weekends.
I was reminded (multiple times) that I am horrible with directions, should never be the bike lead and rode 110 miles!
I swam 2.4 miles for the first time.
My little sister got married in a simply perfect wedding.
I had the cycling day from hell: triple brick with a double flat, but still celebrated Chicken Face’s birthday.
Had an amazing run with old and new friends, and decided to register for the Eugene Marathon.
The blog got it’s first-ever re-design.
Went for an easy recovery run and did the unthinkable, then got the worst news ever. It changed the rest of the year, my goals and my perspective, making me only that much more hungry to make the most of 2013.
Looking back, I’m excited for all that was 2012 as I’ve grown in more ways than I’ve imagined. It was complete with it’s highs and lows, but I believe that everything happens for a reason. 2012 was for me to get my bearings, 2013 will be my time.
Happy New Year!
![completed my first duathlon](<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/pagewilliams/6828459678/" title="Untitled by PageWilliams, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7201/6828459678_ba0e092b20.jpg" width="332" height="500" alt="Untitled"></a>){kind=link}
Wow! What a year! Looks like an incredible journey to me!
What a YEAR! I know 2013 is going to be amazing for you!
Happy New Year! What a great recap. Can’t wait to read about your 2013 training
I laughed out loud at the photo of your wearing running clothes and regular sunglases on the bike – just like I usedt o wear!! That is wehn I stated following your journey. I know there were some disappointments in 2012 but I have a feeling it will make you even stronger in 2013!!! Can’t wait to watch you dominate the Ironman!
What a busy year you have had! Congratulations on so many blessings! xo
Really awesome year! Thanks for sharing it with all of us! I just signed up for a half iron man in Michigan and I will be starting my Triathlon journey in 2013. After following your blog, I feel ready to train, thanks again for sharing what you have learned and how you have trained! Happy 2013 to you! I can’t wait to read an Ironman recap
Happy New Year, Page!
Regardless of the DNS, you had one heck of a journey in 2012 with all your triathlon training and firsts (and some great races thrown in there, too)!
I can’t wait to see you crush an Ironman in 2013.
What a great quote to end this post! I’m looking forward to cheering you on in 2013 towards whatever goals you decide to work towards. I’m excited for all that you’re going to accomplish! Happy New Year!
2013 is gonna be a grand ol time. I can feel it.
What a wild ride! Looking forward to seeing what incredible things you do in 2013. Hunger on!
Simply INCREDIBLE year. I’m very excited to see what 2013 holds for you, Page!
Besides the ankle injury, you had a great 2012! Hopefully your rehab goes well and you can get back at it for 2013 soon.
wow what a big year!! 2013 will be even better once you become an ironman!!