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Southwest Employees Off the Clock: Becoming an Ironman

millie-richter-
Frequent Flyer C
At Southwest Airlines, we are known for our unique Culture and Fun-LUVing Employees.  And believe me when I say that they are as interesting off the clock as they are when they are working.  Meet Mike!  NuttingIronman  

Michael Nutting

Multi Media Specialist

  Ever since watching my cousin compete in the Ironman Lake Placid, I have dreamed of being an Ironman.  When I finished my first triathlon at the Playtri Festival last year, I knew it was now or never.  I immediately began training to prepare for the Ironman race that consists of a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride, and 26.2-mile run. In the early hours of May 17, I took my first step to becoming an Ironman.  Through the Texas heat and the miles, I learned to enjoy the journey.  Around mile 13 of the run, my knee started hurting.  At that point I had swam and biked my heart out, and I knew I had plenty of time to finish, so I slowed down and relaxed—realizing where I was and reflecting on all the hard work I had done to get there.  After 14 hours, 23 minutes, and 7 seconds, I was an Ironman.