With less than 48 hours to go before my last race of the season, I am in full taper and feeling as ready as I am likely to get. It has been a long road, and although I’ve had ups and downs like anyone could expect, this year has been already blessedly full of ups.

I want to place well, but I know that whatever happens I have already had the season of my life. With the love, help, and support of friends and family, I have accomplished things that were mere dreams a year ago. This race is yet another chance to achieve those dreams.

If you want to follow me on Saturday, the race starts at 6:50 AM Central time.

• You can sign up to receive text message updates of my position at this website. My race number is 104
• You can follow my progress online at http://www.ironmanlive.com. There will be video coverage, a live blog, and periodic position updates via the “Athlete Tracker”

If you are reading this, I thank you for being with me this season. I will leave you with a short video tribute to the inimitable Jonnyo, who will not be racing with us on Saturday due to a freak Curling injury.