From professional hopefuls to first-time racers, athletes of all abilities will toe the line at Sunday's
IRONMAN 70.3 Ohio. We asked first-time IRONMAN 70.3 Ohio participants about their "whys" and what they are most looking forward to come race day.
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Scott Farr of IndianapolisScott Farr, 47, Indianapolis
First IRONMAN Ohio
Second IRONMAN (first was Chattanooga in May)
What motivated you to choose IRONMAN?
I was challenged by a friend. We are both bigger guys and he had just finished IM Lake Placid 70.3. I asked him what made him think guys our size (6 foot, 280 pounds) could do something like that and he challenged me right then and there. I didn’t know how to swim or even own a bike, but after putting in the work, here I am (albeit down 50 pounds).
Why did you choose IRONMAN Ohio?
Ohio has a similar profile to the full IM Florida. It’s a good testing ground. I’d like to complete Florida 140.6 at some point so this is a close event that is similar.
What aspects of the IRONMAN are you most looking forward to?
The run. This run looks flat and fast. It should be a great way to finish.
How do you plan to celebrate and recover after the race?
It’s about a 5-6 hour drive home so we’ll head out right after I cruise the finish line. We will be in town early to sightsee and drive the course.
Anything else you would like people to know about you and your IRONMAN journey?
If you are thinking of taking on an IRONMAN (70.3 or 140.6) and you are concerned about your shape, size or age, just know that this test really is mostly mental. You’ll see athletes of all shapes and sizes out there and what they all have in common is GRIT. If you believe you will be successful and you put in the work, you will be. Best of luck!
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Teresa FontanaTeresa Mahoney Fontana, Columbus
First IRONMAN 70.3
What motivated you to choose IRONMAN?
I chose Ironman specifically because it’s known all over the world and recognized as the leader in endurance triathlons.
Why did you choose IRONMAN Ohio?
I love Lake Erie and the North Coast. I grew up on Catawba island. I live in Columbus now, but the lake–it is my calm. My peace. Heck, it’s where I went in my head during all four baby births. Even the smell brings me joy. Every time my family drives over the Bay Bridge, be it summer or winter, the windows go down in hope of that wonderful lake aromatherapy.
What aspects of the IRONMAN are you most looking forward to?
I’m looking forward to Sandusky people. Everything I read about last year repeatedly emphasized what I knew–we have the most wonderful locals–from great cheering to sprinklers for runners to amazing post-race fun. Sandusky, of course, has Cedar Point, but there’s so much more to the area.
How do you plan to celebrate and recover after the race?
I plan to hug my family first as they have supported me for 10 years with this goal and then I’m planning on celebrating downtown for a bit with a finish dinner at Zinc. That’s my plan unless I fall asleep.
Anything else you would like people to know about you and your IRONMAN journey?
I want to encourage anyone no matter their age or current health to go after their fitness dreams even when they get derailed. Mainly the message I’d like to share is that you are never too old. We honestly have no idea what obstacles these athletes have to go through to get to this day. Ten years ago, I was training for my first Olympic triathlon at age 50 and developed a rare autoimmune disease. Ironically, doctors believe that training at that level placed enough stress on my body to cause this disease. They are never really sure with neurological diseases. So when my doctor told me I have an incurable autoimmune disease, I said OK tell me what I need to do. Then she tells me I can’t race anymore and that’s when I started crying. She replied in disbelief. I inform you that you have a disease and no tears. I tell you you can’t race and that’s when you lose it? Any athlete knows all of the sacrifices we make to get to race day. At that moment all I thought about was all the training time in the previous two years spent away from my family. So I slowed down and with the help of my neurologist got this damn thing under control for 10 years. I continued to work out teaching spinning and weight lifting classes (I’m a fitness instructor). I started to near my 58th birthday and I began to push myself again training for triathlons. It’s been 10 years and I finally get to do a half IM. This is a huge milestone for me. I often think of all the muscular/neurological patients I met during my two years and 123 infusions who couldn’t walk without aid. I think of the fit woman my age who cut off her pretty hair because she couldn’t hold her arms up to style it anymore. I will swim, run and bike with total gratefulness that I am a few weeks away from 60 years old and healthy enough to be able to do my first 70.3 IRONMAN.
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Alex LulkaAlex Lulka, 25, Lincolnshire, Illinois
First IRONMAN Ohio 70.3
Eighth IRONMAN 70.3 (Florida (2021); Warsaw, Poland; Madison, Wisconsin; 70.3 World Championship; Florida (2022); Gulf Coast (Florida); Boulder, Colorado)
What motivated you to choose IRONMAN?
IRONMAN events have always been touted as the most challenging endurance events on the planet. To me personally, there is nothing as enjoyable and enduring as that of an IRONMAN race. Whether it's a 70.3 or 140.6 full distance IRONMAN, you’ll be going through a uniquely difficult but rewarding experience worth every minute. In addition, the community and organizers behind IRONMAN are what keeps racing safe and exciting for everyone involved in the sport.
Why did you choose to race IRONMAN Ohio and what aspects of the IRONMAN are you most looking forward to?
I’m always looking forward to seeing the community and participants before, during and after the race. Ohio has always been a hub for the best racers in the midwest.
How do you plan to celebrate and recover after the race?
Local restaurants in Sandusky will definitely be my primary go-to after the race. Another place is Cedar Point, renowned for their incredibly exhilarating roller coasters. Definitely another source of adrenaline right after the race.
Anything else you would like people to know about you and your IRONMAN journey?
IRONMAN has given me the opportunity to develop into a stronger version of myself I never thought possible. Give it a try, and your life will change for the better!
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Lisa RogersLisa Marie Rogers, 52, Columbus
First IRONMAN 70.3
What motivated you to choose IRONMAN?
I have always been one for challenging myself! From going back to school to become a nurse at the age of 50 to running my first ever marathon at the New York City marathon, I am constantly striving to force myself to be comfortable being uncomfortable. After seeing a friend of mine complete their IRONMAN and seeing the physical, emotional, and mental journey they went through, I knew this was the next journey for me! Also, admittedly, the classic IRONMAN tattoo is also a motivator for me!
Why did you choose to race IRONMAN Ohio?
I chose to race in Ohio because of the proximity to home and being able to share the experience with my family, who have supported me throughout this journey!
What aspects of the IRONMAN are you most looking forward to?
The moment of crossing the finish line is one I think of often. That feeling of all the hard work, dedication, and discipline paying off alongside my family is something I will cherish for a lifetime.
How do you plan to celebrate and recover after the race?
My family and I will absolutely be exploring Sandusky before the race (My daughter especially is very excited for Cedar Point)! After the race, I look forward to eating some great food, spending time with my family, and NOT swimming in the open water anytime soon!
Anything else you would like people to know about you and your IRONMAN journey?
As a follower of Christ, we are called to run all of our races in life with endurance (Hebrews 12) and I look forward to leaning on Jesus during this race!