Choosing the right distance; Ironman vs. Ironman 70.3

Marmots Pass Trip

Embarking on any journey means that somewhere along the road a choice was made based on goals, dreams, or fears. A lot of people question those who choose to do an Ironman with why's and how's. And, while those of us training for it have our own individual answers, my question (one that I've been debating for the past week and a half) is how does one decide that the Ironman or the Ironman 70.3 is the right distance?

The distance for the Ironman 70.3 is half of the Ironman, and while it was not my original goal (I didn't even know it existed) I believe it will fulfill everything that I want out of the experience in racing an Ironman. Yes, I know, aside from saying that I completed 140.6 miles. But, to quote an article that Ironman published on November 6th, 2013 just around the time I was starting to question my choice....

Next time someone tries to call it "just a half", here's a list of reasons why Ironman 70.3 is the new...black.

The article continues to list seven reasons why IM 70.3 is a great race for beginners and seasoned triathletes. My reasons for FINALLY deciding to not just jump straight into the deep end are as follows:

1) I want to have a great time. Meaning, my goal is not just to cross the finish line but feel good about the way I swam, biked, and ran.

2) IM is a great event and I want to be able to share the experience with my family and celebrate afterwards. The 70.3 would definitely provide this for me because the family won't be waiting all day for me just to take me home afterwards.

So there you have it, My New Goal is to do Ironman 70.3 Austin, TX in 2014. The date for Austin has yet to be announced but according to past races it has been held sometime in October. This is great for two reasons; I'll have more time to train and I'll be able to get some great experience by actually participating in early season triathlons!

P.S. I have not given up on the Ironman, it'll just be 2015's event. (I think that's the furthest in the future I've ever planned something) Also, here's the link to the article mentioned above. http://www.ironman.com/triathlon/news/articles/2013/11/7-reasons-to-love-70.3.aspx#axzz2lurG6WcN