Lance Armstrong Targets Ironman

Armstrong an Ironman?

After returning to top-level cycling, Lance Armstrong has set a new challenge by saying he intends to compete in the Hawaii Ironman.

The 38-year-old Austin resident was targeting the 2011 or 2012 event in Kona, Hawaii, depending upon whether this year or next will be his final Tour de France.

"I will be in Kona 15 months after the final Tour," Armstrong said Friday. " I'm not saying that with any expectation; it will require months and months of getting back into swimming and running. But I want to just do it, just for fun."

A swimmer as a child and promising national-level triathlete in his late teens, Armstrong has also run in marathons. The Ironman event consists of a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike leg and 26-mile marathon.

"I don't know I could be top three, top five or top 10, but anyway, I want to come and finish," Armstrong said.

Ambitious goal, but he will probably do it. It takes the average runner almost 3 years to train and compete their way to an Ironman. Most people never get to Hawaii unless they get in through the lottery; but knowing Lance Armstrong I'm sure they will find a spot for him just for the publicity. What he doesn't fully realize is the carnage that is seen among the best athlete's in the world at Kona. Even the tough barely survive.

My hat's off to you Lance. Ambitious goal and a "no quit" mentality are neede to survive Kona!

Tony Parker Playing With Plantar Fasciitis

Last season we talked about Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs blowing out his ankle. Seems like his foot and ankle woes are back. He reported this week that he has been suffering from plantar fasciitis for several weeks. The arch of his left foot is killing him and he blames his declining productivity on his foot pain. I know when my arch is just a little irritaed from worn out running shoes or when I need a new pair of orthotics, I have a hard time pushing off when I run. I imagine Tony is having a hard time not only running up and down the court, but having the same spring in his jump shot. He reports that he is using a special stretching sock to help stretch the fascia while he is sleeping. He is also doing quite a bit of physical therapy. Maybe we should send him some orthotics? Then again, maybe it is good karma for the Dallas Mavericks that his feet hurt!

If your arches are killing your personal jump shot, click here for more information on the treatments for plantar fasciitis. Get back in the game!