A few years ago I was in Penticton for the Ironman competition. A friend of mine was attempting the challenging swim/bike/run event for the first time. I was amazed by how supportive the community was. People station themselves along the course with lawn chairs and coolers and cheer all day long. When my friend appeared on the run, the final portion of the race (a mere marathon to go), I ran alongside her in my flip flops. I was quickly shooed away by one of the race police, pacing is prohibited. As I could barely breathe after running 50 metres, I doubt that I was setting any pace. It was fun being a part of it all though and then having a good cry in the evening when the brave racers cross the finish line.
I think my brother feels a little like an Ironman these days. Creating a community from the ground up is certainly an endurance test. Todd dove in to the Sedona Heights project with energy and enthusiasm. He cycled through a long and arduous process with the municipal and regional governments. And now he’s hitting his stride on the final segment of the journey, the finish line in view, many beautiful new homes dotting the landscape, family cheering on the sidelines.
This Sunday, more than 2,800 athletes will compete in the 30th anniversary edition of Subaru Ironman Canada. If you’re in town for the race and are thinking about living in the area permanently, check out Sedona Heights in Summerland.