Ryan and I used to train for triathlon fairly regularly, but then time, my injuries, and other obligations made these sessions fewer and farther between. However, we've always kept in contact and looked forward to the next time we would go for a ride or simply hang out, and each time we spend time together it's a positive experience. This time was no different, except this time I walked away shaking my head in awe. You see, Ryan decided to get back to his roots about a year or so ago and really commit to his true passion, which is body building. He had taken many years away from it, but never so far away that he wasn't connected to it. He was continually shaping and sculpting in some way or another, but just not to the level of days gone by. He had hinted before about considering doing another body building competition, but also carried a tone of reluctance. However, it was evident that the fire still burned in his gut to get after it with the same ferocity as he once did. He has acquired a great deal of knowledge, experience, and success in body building over the years, and he recognized he wasn't done yet. He has unfinished business and his will to pursue his aspirations once again is strong, and thus his competitive revival.
When I drove into the parking lot I noticed he already arrived. There was no mistaking him. He had of course gotten there before me because he is always early and ready to go, no matter what the occasion. He happened to be on his cell phone and was wearing his signature smile. He was also the only one in the parking lot who resembled a brick wall draped in a t-shirt and jeans. I could tell from that single glance that he had been working his ass off because he was chiseled from head to toe. I had seen him big before, well heck, he's always been big to me, but this time it was different, this time he looked like Mr. freakin' Atlas himself. In comparison, I'm about half the man he is in all of my 143 pounds of glory. Where I more resemble Spiderman, after a month long fast, he resembles the Incredible Hulk after a workout at Gold's Gym.
During the course of our visit we talked about how things have been going in our lives but, per our usual conversation, we ultimately got to talking about our athletic pursuits. He asked me how my Ironman training was going and I told about my ups and downs, and how my expectations have had to shift due to my circumstances. He empathized with me, knowing the depth of my passion for the sport of triathlon. In turn, I asked about his training and preparation for his competition, which is now only a few weeks away. As always, I was amazed.
Ryan's level of dedication and work ethic is second to none. He follows a strict diet, he works out relentlessly at the gym daily...and early. He pays close attention to every aspect of his body with full awareness of what the judges will be evaluating, and to what degree. He described to me what his diet consists of and how he prepares his various meals with the detail and precision of an artist. He told me about body symmetry and the science of sculpting through thoughtful timing of workouts, and the intake of certain types of nutrients and fluids. His commitment for excellence is clearly evident.
He told me about a conversation he had with his nutritional adviser. Ryan had told him, "I don't want you to blow smoke up my ass, if I need to make changes, let me know. I'm not going into this competition just to be able to say I was up on the stage, or to get a participant ribbon, or to get the fifth place trophy. I'm going after this to be the best. Whatever happens, happens, but I want to know that I did everything I could do to be the best I can be."
This was only one of the inspiring moments with Ryan. I could see the passion in his eyes for the sport that he loves and is willing to shed blood, sweat, and tears for, and he is heading full throttle for the homestretch without giving in, and without giving up...not one damn inch. The energy he had while expressing himself was clear and nearly so strong that it was like another guest was at our table.
"I want to show up on that stage," he told me, "in the best possible shape I can be. This is not just for me, but for my family and my friends who have been supporting me, and will be there watching."
Ryan has a many gifts, and some of them leap out at you, even if you don't know him, because by simply looking at him you know he is disciplined, dedicated, and is willing to put time in the hurt locker.
I walked away from last night's visit with him feeling like I can achieve anything I put my mind to. I walked away not only believing in him and his efforts, but believing in me, and my goal to finish Ironman Louisville, in spite of my obstacles. There is no question I am looking forward to toeing the line to take on my 140.6 mile challenge at the end of August, but I also am excited as heck to see my friend Ryan bring his best to his competition on August 13th. Regardless of what any judge has to say on the day, it is indisputable, that Ryan is a champion in every sense of the word.
Thank you for your inspiration Ryan...now keep kickin' some ass!
