There are so many ways to get inspiration. I have used sports as a way to become inspired to achieve my personal goals.  Every year, I enjoy riding my bike in charity events.  I have ridden in events that range from 25 miles up to 100 miles in a day.  Most recently I have decided to train for an Ironman 70.3.  This race consists of a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile bike and a 13.1-mile run.

Remember, I was a former couch potato.  I have never had an athletic bone in my body until I went to college.  When I tell people that I am training for a 1/2 marathon, the usual response is 'running is so hard' or 'I can't run'.  Believe me-running isn't easy.  I used to get excused from running the mile run in gym class in middle school because I convinced my grandmother to write me notes to excuse me.  Now, I am running several times per week and I'm absolutely hooked!

My response to those people is "you can do anything you put your mind to".  It takes training and practice, but if you think you can do it- you can! 

The other day, I watched the IRONMAN 70.3 world championships on TV.  There was one participant in this race who absolutely inspired me.  He is the perfect example of someone who can achieve anything you put your mind to.

Dick and Rick Hoyt are a father and son team who compete in endurance events.  They have competed in almost 1000 events together.  Rick is physically challenged. This, however, doesn't stop him.  In every event, Dick either pushes him in a wheelchair, swims with Rick in a boat and pulls him the whole way, or pulls him on his bike.  He does this for full length Ironmans which is 140.6 total miles (a whole marathon, 2.4 mile swim, and 112 mile bike). 

I hope that people like this inspire more able bodied people (and physically challenged) to start a sport.  They are a perfect example that you can do 'anything you put your mind to!'

For more information about this pair, please check out their website.  They are absolutely amazing and have inspired me!  www.teamhoyt.com