The Marshes’ view earlier today, somewhere in South Carolina
Early this morning in Charlotte, NC, Amy and Parker Marsh loaded their car, racked their bikes and set out for Miami, FL. On Sunday morning, they and 2,500 others will compete in the Ironman 70.3, a grueling test of endurance and will that begins with a 1.2-mile open water swim, followed by a 56-mile bike ride and finally ends with a 13.1-mile run through Miami proper. Though the Marshes have competed in numerous triathlons and half-marathons, this will be their first half Ironman. And they’ll be doing it for children fighting Batten disease.
During the journey to south Florida earlier today, Amy shared her pre-race thoughts with me via a text message:
We are excited that our big race day is finally here but are a bit sad that all of the training and preparation is coming to an end. We are hopeful that the race goes smoothly – no flat tires!
We have been thinking about Taylor and will continue to think of her throughout our race. Every stroke we swim, pedal we push and step we run will be for her and other children with Batten disease.
In addition to promoting awareness of Batten disease, Amy and Parker have asked friends and family to donate to Taylor’s Tale in honor of their first-ever Ironman 70.3. They’ve already raised $860, meaning they are just $140 away from their $1,000 goal!
I think we can help the Marshes achieve their goal before the race begins on Sunday morning. Please consider giving at least $10 in support of the months and months of hard work Amy and Parker put into getting ready for their big day on behalf of children like Taylor! If just 14 people can spare $10, they’ll make their goal!
Click here to donate now. Thank you for your support, and best of luck to Amy and Parker!