I find the Stadler v Macca smack talk a bit amusing. I have met them both a couple of times over the years, and they both seem to be ok with me. Sure, both are a bit cocky, but I suppose I might be too if I was that fast.
When it really comes down to it though, when the cameras are not on, etc, most of us with any sort of human depth could really care less how fast someone is. We care more about character, and the ability to give and receive love.
So, we are on the same flight out of Kona as Normann. He gets up to go to the bathroom and my 3 year old son Riley and I can see him from our seats. I say “there's Mr. Stadler the man who won." Riley asks if he can go shake his hand, and I say sure. So, Riley walks up and sticks hand out. Normann proceeds to shake his hand in a very endearing manner and talks to my little buddy in a kind, gentle manner. No camera, no lights, no audience - the man was a real man.
Then, walking through the Chicago airport and changing terminals we see Norman again. Riley asks if he wants to race and dashes to the moving side walk to take the lead. Normann engages in baby steps with a big smile on his face. Our 5 and 7 year old daughters bust out laughing, Riley falls on his face, and Normann enjoys the whole escapade. Again, priceless.
Later, going up an escalator (it was on long walk on sore legs!) Normann engages in a conversation with my wife, Cindy, who could care less who actually won the race. Her response was "gee, he is a really nice guy, kinda like you (referring to me)."
Yes, I am a Normann fan.
David
* Ironman for Life! (Blog) * IM Everyday Hero Video * Daggett Shuler Law *
Disclaimer: I have personal and professional relationships with many athletes, vendors, and organizations in the triathlon world.
When it really comes down to it though, when the cameras are not on, etc, most of us with any sort of human depth could really care less how fast someone is. We care more about character, and the ability to give and receive love.
So, we are on the same flight out of Kona as Normann. He gets up to go to the bathroom and my 3 year old son Riley and I can see him from our seats. I say “there's Mr. Stadler the man who won." Riley asks if he can go shake his hand, and I say sure. So, Riley walks up and sticks hand out. Normann proceeds to shake his hand in a very endearing manner and talks to my little buddy in a kind, gentle manner. No camera, no lights, no audience - the man was a real man.
Then, walking through the Chicago airport and changing terminals we see Norman again. Riley asks if he wants to race and dashes to the moving side walk to take the lead. Normann engages in baby steps with a big smile on his face. Our 5 and 7 year old daughters bust out laughing, Riley falls on his face, and Normann enjoys the whole escapade. Again, priceless.
Later, going up an escalator (it was on long walk on sore legs!) Normann engages in a conversation with my wife, Cindy, who could care less who actually won the race. Her response was "gee, he is a really nice guy, kinda like you (referring to me)."
Yes, I am a Normann fan.
David
* Ironman for Life! (Blog) * IM Everyday Hero Video * Daggett Shuler Law *
Disclaimer: I have personal and professional relationships with many athletes, vendors, and organizations in the triathlon world.