Ironman AWA Top 2%
Recently, I received a letter from Ironman that starts like this:
“Oleksandr, Congratulations! Your racing activity at IRONMAN and/or IRONMAN 70.3 events in 2023 positioned you in the top 2% of all athletes in your age group, earning you 2024 Gold All World Athlete status.”
In the top 2% of all athletes in my age group worldwide. Sounds great! But what does that truly mean? What does it tell about Me, as a person? While I am undoubtedly in excellent shape, I don’t consider myself inherently athletically gifted.
As I reflect, I realize that most of our personal characteristics are byproducts of something deeper—the core. But what exactly is this core? What fundamental element is foundational to this achievement? What should I focus on more and develop further?
For me, it boils down to one essential quality: the ability to get things done, regardless of circumstances. It’s about showing up consistently, methodically, day after day. No matter how I feel, where I am, or what challenges I face, I execute the plan to the best of my ability on the day. I don’t skip workouts; I set priorities and stick to them religiously. I determine what truly matters and eliminate distractions—those habits, time-wasters, or relationships that weaken me.
Maintaining focus over months and years is crucial. Motivation, I’ve learned, is a finite resource—it is great to get us started, but it never lasts. Motivation burns strong and bright, but fast. So, I seek more reasons to continue than reasons to quit. Oh, how many times I stood at crossroads, questioning whether to keep going or give up.
Now, imagine meeting someone else in that top 2%—an amateur athlete who shares this achievement. What assumptions would I make?
- This person can stick with projects over extended periods. They won’t quit when faced with difficulties; they’re in it for the long haul.
- They possess an inner drive that can sustain them forward. An ability to find means to self-motivate. When life hits lows, they bounce back faster than most.
- This individual can immerse themselves wholeheartedly in something. They know what passion tastes like.
- They differentiate between noise and what truly matters. They are able to maintain focus for a long time.
- If we became friends, it’d be a unique bond—a love-hate friendship. Our competitive spirits would push each other to greater heights, however difficult it might be.
So, to my fellow top 2% athletes, wherever you are, let’s keep pushing, inspiring, and creating our own extraordinary paths. 🏃♂️🏊♂️🚴♂️
