Inspired by a friend

On Sunday my friend Angela participated in the SheRox triathlon this past weekend and I cannot stop thinking about what an amazing morning that was. I’m glad I went. Really. Truth be told, while I had thought of the race all week and planned on going to watch, I had forgotten all about it by Sunday morning. The day greeted us with clouds and gloom. We talked about heading to the Please Touch museum or the zoo … and then Richard reminded me that I had expressed interest in seeing our friend compete in the triathlon.

So, we quickly packed our stuff together in less then 5 minutes and headed over to Fairmount Park. Richard had grabbed the raincover for the stroller and I, at the last second, grabbed a few umbrellas. Just in case. I’m glad I did.

It started to rain.

Hope (Angela’s older daughter) and Maja in their raincoats and umbrellas.

Then we had a full-on torrential downpour with thunder and lightning which caused the race to be suspended, caused localized flooding, and shut down part of the expressway. Good times.
2 days later and my shoes are still drying out!

Maybe it’s my preggo hormones, but I keep tearing up when I think of the race. Not just because it was so amazing to see these women of all age ranges and fitness levels face the challenge of doing a triathalon, but more to watch the onlookers cheer them on – onlookers who were primarily men cheering on their female counterparts. And then the kids cheering on their moms. That was cool.

So, congrats Angela. You’re an inspiration and awesome role model (and dammit now I’m crying again!) and I’m proud to have you as a friend. (And no, I’m not taking back the bike but yes, I may join you in 2010). Can you believe I have no pictures of the actual triathlete?!? sheesh.

Some of Angela’s fans – younger daughter Ruby held by her sister Joanna (who flew up from Florida to show her support!)