Dr. Larry Smith is back from the Penticton Ironman triathlon where he finished 45 minutes faster that his previous attempt and raised money and awareness for Parksville’s Forward House.
“My total time was 14 hours, 21 minutes, 49 seconds,” Smith said. “I finished 45 minutes faster than my last Ironman in 2008 and just missed my personal best by only eight minutes. I am pleased with my race results.”
He said he went in feeling humble and came out even more humble, admitting he has done a few easy runs since but will give himself several months off before returning to serious training, but he’s “stoked to do it again.”
“It was a good day, not without it’s struggles,” he said of the Aug. 26 event that included a 3.8 km swim, 180 km cycle and 42.2 km run.
He said during the run he began cramping and slowing considerably at one point but some chicken soup perked him right back up.
“Forward House partners benefit not only from Dr. Larry’s inspiring example,” said Carol Richardson, executive director of the mental health and addictions recovery society, “but also from his generosity. We are indeed fortunate that Dr. Larry dedicated funds raised in honour of his effort to our recreation programs. Everyone wins. We are very grateful.”
“I like the analogy that we move forward one step at a time and there are people there to help you through, there are people there to cheer you on,” he said of the Ironman and the work Forward House does. “I can’t say enough about them.”
He added that prizes will be drawn next week.
Aside from raising around $2,000 people would ask about it, starting many conversations about Forward House’s good work.
For more information contact Forward House at 250-954-0785 or 129, E. Jensen Ave, or Dr. Smith at 250-248-6333 or 255A E Island Hwy.