David Daggett competed in the Ironman Executive Challenge in Chattanooga, TN on September 29th. At age 59, this was his last race in the 55-59 age group and he was the oldest competitor in the Executive Challenge. An Ironman race is a very demanding event comprised of a 2.4-mile swim, biking for 112 miles, and then a marathon-length run at 26.2 miles. This was his 195th triathlon and 29th Ironman finish.
The day started fast for David when he emerged first out of the water for all competitors over 55 years old. But the real challenges were just beginning. The conditions on race day were extremely challenging. The weather was hot . . . 97 degrees with a heat index of 107.
As the weather, and the competition, heated up, additional challenges arose including two flat tires on the bike course. On the run, points along the course registered radiant heat at over 120 degrees. In addition, the high humidity combined to make it one of the toughest days on record.
Always moving forward, Daggett survived the day finishing first overall in the Executive Challenge. This result qualified him for the 2020 Hawaii Ironman World Triathlon Championship. This will be his ninth time competing in this iconic event.
David was 30 years old when he completed his first Ironman, and he is excited to continue his streak next year at age 60. In racing, and in life, he always remembers his mantra, “Never give up, and always put one foot in front of the other.”