Mickie Shapiro, 74-years-old, has more than 20 Ironman races to her name. Not hafl-Ironman either. Nope, she has completed the full 3.9-km open-water swim, a 180-km bike race and a full marathon, 42 km. Most people would never even try to take on a marathon, much less the other two events.
Not only has she competed in 20, she has won 8 races in her category. She has competed and won despite having osteoporosis, thyroid problems and deformed feet. She has been through a lot, yet attributes much of her success in life to the freedom she feels from competing. It gives her focus and joy. A focus and joy she will take with her this year as she continues to compete.
“There are no short cuts to Ironman. Training is not easy. You have to have a passion. This year, I’m ready,” Mickie told reporters. “I’m ready.”
