One of KidKraft's very own competed in Ironman Coeur d'Alene June 21, 2009, finishing in an incredible 12:21:23! Way to go Ilan!
So what is Ironman Coeur d'Alene? It's a fiercely challenging 2.4 mile swim in frigid lake temps of 63 degrees, 112 miles on the bike through 6,000 ft of elevation in the hills of Idaho, followed by a full 26.2 mile marathon (in wind & rain, in Ilan's case). We are so proud of Ilan's dedication, training, and exemplary times in his first Ironman competition. Here's a recap of the race:
So what is Ironman Coeur d'Alene? It's a fiercely challenging 2.4 mile swim in frigid lake temps of 63 degrees, 112 miles on the bike through 6,000 ft of elevation in the hills of Idaho, followed by a full 26.2 mile marathon (in wind & rain, in Ilan's case). We are so proud of Ilan's dedication, training, and exemplary times in his first Ironman competition. Here's a recap of the race:
The morning began chilly and in the 40's for the race's 7am start.
Check out the hectic open water swim start -
some 2,000 triathletes competed in CDA.
The water was choppy and the wind picked up
during the 2nd loop of the 2.4 mile swim.
After the swim, Ilan transitioned to the bike. He reports the course was "very scenic, a green nature-filled part of the world, the perfect location for a race like Ironman."
The bike course was hilly, technical, and overall very challenging with 6,000 ft of elevation changes. Ilan was very fast on the bike, averaging 20 mph.
And after the bike, Ilan transitioned to the run portion of Ironman, running several of the marathon's miles in chilly rain.
After much mental & physical exertion,
Ilan crossed the finish line at 12:21:23, an amazing time!
Ilan said the finish line was an adrenaline-filled rush, and he high-fived cheering fans, smiled for pictures, and happily made his way to pizza and other refreshments after crossing the finish line. Here he is, a final photo opp for the Ironman Finisher.
Check out the hectic open water swim start -
some 2,000 triathletes competed in CDA.
The water was choppy and the wind picked up
during the 2nd loop of the 2.4 mile swim.
After the swim, Ilan transitioned to the bike. He reports the course was "very scenic, a green nature-filled part of the world, the perfect location for a race like Ironman."
The bike course was hilly, technical, and overall very challenging with 6,000 ft of elevation changes. Ilan was very fast on the bike, averaging 20 mph.
And after the bike, Ilan transitioned to the run portion of Ironman, running several of the marathon's miles in chilly rain.
After much mental & physical exertion,
Ilan crossed the finish line at 12:21:23, an amazing time!
Ilan said the finish line was an adrenaline-filled rush, and he high-fived cheering fans, smiled for pictures, and happily made his way to pizza and other refreshments after crossing the finish line. Here he is, a final photo opp for the Ironman Finisher.
KidKraft celebrates Ilan for his extraordinary accomplishment and is grateful for his example and leadership in training and achieving fitness goals. Ilan teaches spin classes and leads lake rides for our KidKraft employees, and his positive attitude and fortitude in Ironman are an inspiration to all of us.
When asked what's next for the Ironman, Ilan humbly replied, "looking forward to the next one... maybe Louisville, 2010?" Congratulations Ilan!
When asked what's next for the Ironman, Ilan humbly replied, "looking forward to the next one... maybe Louisville, 2010?" Congratulations Ilan!
