SARAH PRUNIER … The First-Timer

When did you decide to enter an Ironman triathlon?

A couple years ago my brother-in-law did one, and I was just blown away by his dedication and his perseverance. I made it a goal of mine to get fitter and healthier, so I did a couple of marathons. Ironman is my ultimate goal, but it wasn’t until it came to Whistler that I actually thought it was something I might do.

What do you find most beneficial about having a coach?

It’s having someone to turn to and say “Is this normal? Is this what is supposed to happen?” You get really exhausted … all of a sudden your performance will dip a little bit. To be able to have someone to say “Do you know why it’s happening?”, and for them to have the answer and say it’s OK!

It seems Ironman competitors form a supportive, friendly community. Have you found it already?

Everybody shares little bits of information and checks in with each other to see how you’re doing. It’s good; you have a little support group and everyone’s cheering each other on and just wanting the best for each other.