IRONMAN: Proof of real mettle

I always enjoy watching the Ironman competition and I witnessed an incident Sunday that made me even more sure that Ironman competitors are a truly special group of people.

A young boy attempting to cross the street during the cycling event went out right in front of a cyclist and the two collided. A volunteer quickly whisked the boy up and returned him to his parents (won’t go into their unbelievable reactions) and immediately turned his attention to the cyclist who was picking himself and his bike up. The cyclist was clearly shaken but any physical injuries were, at least, unapparent. Once vertical again, he turned and pointed at the boy and asked, “Is he OK?” Only when he was assured the child was good did he remount his bike and pedal off.

I wish I had thought to check his number. I only hope he was able to finish the race, but either way he is a winner!

WENDY KILCOYNE

Coeur d’Alene