When we set out on this journey, we thought we would be training for a half ironman. It quickly became apparent that it was much more than that… It really was about cultivating friendship, and becoming skilled at balancing work, training and family. And while I've gotten the "training" portion down, managing the family & work certainly have room for improvement-as my wife would attest.

We relied on each of you for support and advice, to the point that our race was choreographed to the nth degree. Our most productive hours were spent discussing sleeveless verses full wetsuits, how much GU and Gatorade to use, and when to use it. And, of course, there was the all important task of shopping for our race-day outfits.

We love that Bob combs his hair in transition. We love that John worries that everyone else is getting more training time in than he is - even though he spends countless hours working on his web site. We love that for Tommy, it's not about who wins, but who looks and dresses the best. We love that Lynn wants nothing to do with any of the details. She just wants to be told where to go, and when to be there… And we love that all of the planning , talking, worrying and "what ifs", drives Beth absolutely crazy… to the point that she will go off on her own to get away from all of us!

Yes, this event has been a journey…About new-found friends and enriched friendships, the support of our fellow runners and triathletes, and the understanding of our family.

To all of YOU, now and in the future.

- Mike Pepper (Denlow Dinner 8/18/2005)