Before Mark Peterson: I had a severe case of swim/water phobia. Triathlons? No way. Standing on Monona Terrace, I peered in awe at the Iron athletes. I learned to swim. Lake? Had to be pulled from the lake after panicking in a tri-swim class. Was nearly rescued from my second triathlon after another swim panic.

After Mark Peterson: I lay in the water at Monona Terrace, completely relaxed prior to the Ironman Wisconsin swim, enjoying the sunrise. Cannon sounds. I'm off, strategically drafting off faster swimmers, in the thick of the pack. I feel like the bionic woman. I emerge elated and victorious. Time- 1:25.