Augusta Ironman 2013

In June 2012 these two competed in the Grandman Sprint Triathlon in Fairhope, Alabama.  A week ago, Aaron and Brad came together in Augusta, Georgia to compete in the Augusta Ironman 70.3.   

Aaron and Brad at the Grandman June 2012

In the car and ready for the 4 1/2 hour drive to Augusta, GA.

Such a long drive with not much to look at, but the company was amazing.

Aaron on the phone with Brad, pumping each other up about the big day.

This is the Savannah River.  Aaron swam 1.2 miles in this river.

A sneak peak of the expo.

WE ARE HERE!!!  Aaron getting ready to check in.

After checking in and looking at the swag at the expo, the Turner's and Hill's headed to the hotel to check in and rest before dinner.  The guys had to check in their bikes.  They enjoyed looking at all of the expensive and fancy bikes. Aaron did a low estimate of 5.2 million dollars worth of bikes parked here waiting for the race.

Lots of money parked for the race.

Brad standing in the transition area between the swim and the bike.

We enjoyed a tasty dinner at T.G.I. Friday's and headed back to the hotel to watch the Alabama game.  The guys may have been just as excited about finally getting to watch the game together as they were to be doing the race together.  I spent my time playing with Stella (Brad and Paige's 3 year old daughter).  Then it was off to bed for everyone.

Sunday morning came bright and early.  The guys were up and ready to leave by 5:30.  Aaron started the swim at 9:00, so he had quite some time to wait.  I enjoyed several more hours of sleep before Paige, Stella, and I loaded in the car and found a place to camp out for the day.  

The swim is complete.  

This app was AWESOME!!!

The finish line.  The pros were finishing by the time we got to the race course.  

 My spot for the day.  This was mile 4, 9, and 11 on the run course.  

We were able to see Aaron and Brad three times during the run.

Stella enjoyed looking for Brad and encouraging everyone who ran past. 

She was quite the trooper.

The bike portion is completed.  Now just 13.1 miles left.

 First time by - Aaron was looking good and still smiling.

Closer view - Second time to see him - Mile 9 completed

And he's DONE!!!  So THANKFUL for this app.

Paige and I were able to connect to WIFI and keep up with the guys.

My tired, sweaty, amazing husband.  I am so proud of him!

 The guys discussing the race, drinking a coke, and proudly
wearing their finisher's hats and medals.

After finishing the race, taking numerous photos, and picking up the bikes, we headed back to the hotel to shower.  After a quick shower, a round of hugs and goodbyes, Aaron and I loaded in the car to begin the 4 1/2 hour drive home.  We made it home a little before midnight on Sunday.  So glad Aaron was able to have this experience.  No telling what the next adventure may be.  Until next time...