The Story

They say that it is the story that counts. That very few people are interested in data, information, objective reporting. That even nerds and geeks lose the popularity battle (or share of market) to those whose skill in storytelling creates compelling drama. I think there is some truth here, as evidenced by the long-time Hollywood adage hailing the script as King. A good story can overcome many faults, cover blemishes and hide mediocre acting. A good story inspires, entertains, motivates. A really good story compels us into action.

Last week I witnessed several dramatic acts. Demonstrations of valor, of courage and the understanding of the meaning behind what it is that we do. Because, in essence, all we do is swim, bike and run. Granted we swim long, ride hard and run with fatigue (till exhaustion). That is the objective information and you can extrapolate all the scientific data you like about watts, pace, heart-rate, nutrition, osmololity and power and still write what we call in the media a 'snoozer'.

What makes a story sizzle is, well, the story. What happened then? 'Craig Alexander won his third Ironman World Championship averaging 25.45 MPH on the bike for 112 grueling miles', is good reporting. 'Collapsing at the finish after 140.6 sun-baked miles in the lava fields of Kona, three-peat Ironman Champion Craig (Crowie) Alexander sought first his wife and kids for celebration', gets us closer to the real story of why, how and who.

There were 1,850 starters Saturday with a finish ratio of almost 95% (1,819). The two biggest stories were, of course, champions Alexander and Chrissie Wellington, she courageously battling through a pectoral muscle tear and severe road rash from a previous crash. Big time stuff perfect for the Kona backdrop and the NBC cameras. Crowie was ultra prepared to regain his crown lost last year to Aussie countryman Chris McCormack, Chrissie dropped out a year ago with a virus and was determined to regain HER crown, paying whatever price necessary. That cost was pain. They both accomplished their respective missions with great composure and élan. They are true champions and I stand in total admiration and respect.

That is their story. I would love to see a collection from the other 1,848. I know a few and they are equally inspiring and motivating. They capture my imagination, holding it hostage until the closure of completion.

As you know, I have begun training and preparation for Ironman Canada on August 28, 2012. The goal is a simple one: To qualify for Kona. No shying away from drama or challenge, I additionally predicted a top five finish at the World Championships in Hawaii next October.

This will get my full attention and focus for the next eleven and one-half months. I will blog it, film it, discuss it, dissect it, refine it, improve it, eat it and sleep it. I could easily say I will go sub-11 in Penticton and 11:09 in Kona and leave it at that.

But then you wouldn't get the story. And the story is on the road. The path, the journey, the dog-days, the hurt, the commitment and the desire to do 'whatever it takes'. THAT is the story.

Race day is just the epilogue as execution.

Pix: Crowie on stage after. Chrissie and Crowie. Champions. A good story.