Ford Ironman 2011, Madison, WI

It's not just any day that your brother becomes an Ironman.  As he crossed the finish line just before sundown yesterday, after 2.4 miles of swimming, 112 miles of biking and 26.2 miles of running, the world may now recognize him with the elite class of athletes called Ironmen. 

I however knew he was an Ironman long before...like the day we brought him home from the hospital...18 years ago...and took embarrassing of pictures of him in a Christmas stocking.  He absolutely took that like a man, and has everything to this day. 

Here are a few clips of what's "all in a days work" for Tyler.  He was smiling through every inch of the 140.6 miles, was the youngest male finisher overall, and can brag about his incredible time of just over 12 hours.

Checking the course, the night before.

Sunrise over a mass-swim start.  Three thousand racers take to the 2.4 mile course.  Did they get to push off?  No.  They started in the middle of the lake, only after treading water for up to a half-hour.

Just before mile 100 on the bike.  No signs of fatigue.

Half-marathon mark on the run.  Still a thumbs up.

Jombo-tron finish.  Unbelievable.

Time to replace a few calories.

The gorgeous Menona Terrace at night, under a clear sky and a bright moon.  Thank you Madison for hosting such a spectacular event.

Wisconsin's capital in lights, as some of the last finishers victoriously take the finish line.