Angela Harkey was gunning for a Kona slot. She had already secured a place in St. George at the 70.3 World Championships, and her training was going well. Her swim and bike started out with a strong indication she could do it. Angela missed that spot…because of a mechanical that cost her a substantial amount of time on the bike course. She didn’t give up or stop smiling. Here’s how she sees it….
Recently, Coach Cindy spoke about racing through adversity and to expect the unexpected. With any race, anything could go wrong. Some things in your control and others beyond your control. For me it was the latter.
On race day, I knew that I put in the work and all I needed to do was follow my plan. Treat it as another training day, have fun and enjoy every minute. I also knew that my race could turn sideways at any given moment and I had to be prepared to deal with whatever unwanted situation that could thrown my way.
After a surprisingly great swim (despite a little bit of breast stroking at the start), I started out on the bike and felt strong. However, mid-way through the bike, my aero bars loosened. It didn’t feel safe and I had to make a decision – give up or pull over and wait for the on course bike mechanic. Luckily, I was able to safely make my way to special needs and I had someone call for help.
While I waited, many thoughts raced through my mind , including the thought of my race being over. What if the bike mechanic couldn’t fix my aero bars? Could I finish the ride in the uprights? And if I could ride, would I be able to change gears?
I knew very quickly that I had to stay positive. I could cry, be angry or give up but I knew I couldn’t let this situation ruin the one day I trained so hard for. I reminded myself that this could happen to anyone and thought about races where my husband, Dave, and other friends found themselves in similar situations. They preserved and crossed the finish line. So could I.
It was 50 minutes before the mechanic arrived, pulled apart my aero bars, tightened the screws and had me back on the road. I finished the bike in good spirits and quickly transitioned to the run.
As I started out, I knew trying to make up for time lost wasn’t an option and that it would be a recipe for disaster. So I focused on sticking to plan even when my mind and body wanted to slow down. I kept reminding myself of the advice I was given before the race: “Our bodies are more capable than our minds. Let the pain be there, accept it but don’t let it become you.” Nothing was going to get in the way at this point, even when my blistered feet were screaming at me to stop.
Crossing the finish line set off a wave of mixed emotions, especially seeing Dave who is wholeheartedly the best cheerleader that one could ask for. I wouldn’t have made it here without him.
Ironman Mont Tremblant didn’t quite go as planned but it was a memorable and amazing experience. One that I’ve learned so much from. I wouldn’t change a thing! Now on to the next Ironman…
