1. What are you most excited about in competing in Kona?
I started racing Ironman in 2011. I have chased my dream to qualify for Kona for over 10 years and it finally happened. I’m excited to just be there to breathe in the atmosphere, and compete with the best in the world.
2. What is your favorite career IRONMAN memory so far?
My 10th Ironman for sure. I had worked so hard with mental mindfulness that I was going to win my age group. I came out of swim almost last, not sure what I did,
but I was 18 min slower than I normally do an Ironman swim. I was so angry at myself, but I quickly changed my mood and reminded myself that anything can happen in an Ironman.
The race was not over. I biked in my time and got 1st place on the bike. it wasn’t until around mile 9 I was told by friends I was first, but that has happened before on my ironman races.
They all catch up with me and pass me. But this time I kept telling myself, I was number 1, and no one was going to take it from me.
When I was a mile away I could relax, although, I kept looking over my shoulder, I knew I had won and was going to KONA!!
What an incredible feeling, I will never forget!! ?
3. Is this your first time competing in Kona and if no how many other times have you done so?
Oh Yes, first time!!!!
4. If someone were watching that is new to the sport, what would you tell them is the coolest thing about being a triathlete and competing in this venue?
I would tell them triathlon becomes a lifestyle. Age doesn’t matter. Triathlon is not only about racing, it’s the journey and the camaraderie you find within the triathlon community. Your confidence will grow and you start to look for more to challenge yourself. The ability to achieve something bigger than you could ever dream to accomplish is powerful. There is no limits.
5. What do you think is the hardest thing about doing an IRONMAN?
Commitment, never give up!! Family support (although, I never had a problem, but I know many that do) Positive Mindset; “Believe in yourself.”
I am privledged to take bootcamp classes from Jeanette and it has been awesome to follow her amazing journey to Kona. She is going to tear it up in Hawaii and so many of us in Colorado will be cheering her on. You got this Jeanette!!!!