Lisa Bentley 11x IRONMAN Champion

Lisa Throws Out First Pitch at Jays Game

Last Tuesday evening, I was lucky enough to throw out the first pitch at the Toronto Blue Jays game at the Roger's Center. I used to be a huge baseball fan back in the 80's when the Blue Jays won the World Series. But once triathlon took hold of my life, my baseball 'dates' with my father were soon replaced by long bike rides, long runs and laps in the pool! Well, now that I am about to marry the biggest baseball fan other than my own dad, I have been going to several games with Dave and mom and dad. I even went to Fenway Park in April to watch the Red Sox when I was in Boston visiting Saucony and watching the Boston Marathon. Fenway is the classic baseball stadium - so much history - it was truly an incredible experience - one that I will one day share with my dad. Well, despite the offer of a pitching contract from the Blue Jays General Manager following my outstanding first pitch at last night's Blue Jay game, I have decided to continue with my pursuit of Ironman triathlons!!! I must say that the highlight was the smile on my dad's face when we walked out onto the playing field through the Blue Jay dugout! My dad was greeted by "O-Dog" - Orlando Hudson - who was a class act and called my dad "sir" and promised him a base hit. It was amazing to see a child's smile on my father's 73 year old face! Priceless!!!

2007 Ironman Canada

Lisa Bentley's third Subaru Ironman Canada title did not come with the apparent ease of her 2003 and 2004 Ironman Canada wins. At this year's Ironman Australia, Bentley suffered a lower leg injury that side-lined her run training for three months and threatened her chances of even competing in the race.

Bentley came into the 25th Subaru Ironman Canada displaying a different "race face" from previous appearances in the Okanagan Valley. Gone was the subtle confidence usually displayed in her pre-race comments and appearances. Yes, the words, responses and comments were similar to those of years past, but there was a noted restraint in her tone. It was more of an "I am just glad to be here" attitude.

Throughout April, May and June, Bentley replaced her seven day a-week running program with sessions lying motionless in the hyperbaric chamber, having physiotherapy, active release therapy, acupuncture and injections into the tendon on her heel. Her focus during in her recovery turned to her bike training, which paid off in spades for her in the race.

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