me? you are sponsoring me?

i know, i know.... it's been awhile.  my apologizes.... (to our 4 readers)

however, i have some very exciting news.  check out...Ironman-Newton Running Tri Team as you read through, scroll down through the names and, whoa, is that johnny little? that's right, i have been selected to join the ironman foundation and newton running triathlon team. it's truly humbling to be part of this select group.  

when i first received the email notification, i was at the y practicing my speed bursts on the treadmill. i was overcome with joy and elation. few tears crept up, but i was sweating like crazy, so, thankfully, no one noticed. made a few calls to my family (didn't read the email in whole, wasn't allowed to say anything until the press release, oops) and as it sank in, as i took in their excitement as well, i started to feel validation.  

6 to 7 days a week, i am awake at 4am and either to the gym or on the bike by 5. most of the world is asleep, and i'm covered in sweat or clicking off the yards in the pool. down a chocolate milk when i finish, clean up and it's off to work. like rinse and repeat, everyday. for many people, this lifestyle would be too difficult, sacrificing too much. they would say it's too early, too cold, too far and i could get hurt. however, i have kept these naysayers and negative thoughts at bay by understanding that:

-if it hurts, it will only make you stronger

-if it requires sacrifice, victory will be that much sweeter

-nothing compares to reaching goals that others said were out of your reach

plus, i'm definitely a morning person. so, after i got home, completely read the email regarding my selection, i felt validated. these early morning training sessions, double-day workouts and constantly having to wash my workout attire are being recognized by not just my closest friends and family members, but also, ironman and newton running. i am a sponsored triathlete. what? i know, it's pretty wild. and beyond newton running, , team sponsors include sugio, shimano, fuelbelt, training peaks, multisports coaching, headsweats, tribike transport, gu energy labs, degree, retül, flo cycling, 110% compression and justin's nut butter. to say that i'm excited would be an understatement.

so very soon, you will see me all deck out in my sponsors attire riding or running. the race and training kit look to be quite bright, so i know you won't miss me. well, actually, i need you to not hit me, haha.

johnny