Mike Reilly Finding My Voice: Tales from Ironman, the World's Greatest Endurance Event

Mike Riley is like Kona! He is what we strive to receive. He is Ironman! I am so grateful to have had Mike Riley call me across the finish line at many races, but most grateful for 2022 world Championship's call! Thank you Mike, you are Ironman! Great book! As you said to me in Hawaii, great day to you. Enjoy retirement.

In Praise of Finding my Voice by Mike ReillySeldom have I read a book that captures the essence of why I do sports. Boys in The Boat came close although I never have crewed. However, I have done triathlons and Mike has written a book for those of use that have dedicated hours into training and racing.This may be difficult to understand for those of you reading my praise for this book, but I found I could not read more than a chapter at a time. In fact, sometimes I could not finish a chapter because it moved me so much that tears streamed down my cheeks. It brought back memories, beautiful memories, of nearly 20 years of age group racing. If you have done any sports, you are going to like this book. If you have done sports, you know it is not about the racing. Sports are about developing healthy habits, about coaching, about deep friendships, about pushing yourself for no other reason than to see where it will take you.Mike relates many of the extraordinary people that do triathlons and the people that support them. It is not about the pros, those gods of the sport. It is about all the rest of us that look up to those gods and who get to compete in the same race at the same time, to shake hands with, and to cheer them. But I could never do what they do. But I can do the same race just like them but at my 100%-effort pace.When I am racing, I briefly allow myself the time to notice other athletes but not too much because I lose my focus. Reading Finding my Voice took me back to Kona after my races were done. Back to finding myself at the finish line cheering for the people coming in after my time and waiting for the last athlete because no matter what time an athlete does, we are all part of a unique population that shares an experience that few others have and I feel a sense of comradery with my sisters and brothers. We know what it was like to train, to sacrifice and to race in Kona or elsewhere. Thank you, Mike, for capturing so eloquently what it was like for me and to put into words that could stir such deep emotions and that just might inspire others to change their lives completely. You were there for me in Kona at my moment of glory and now you are for me any time I want to pick up your book and relive those moments again.

Mike even signed this book for my husband. Amazing stories he has to tell of his Ironman days!

Mike is the real Ironman! And he inspires and touches thousands of athletes. Finishing an Ironman race with Mike is an honor. But start with his book. If you're on your journey to become an Ironman, or, if you are already an Ironman, this is the book. Thanks so much Mike for your great contribution! I am looking forward to seeing you hearing you again at the finish line!

I loved this book!Mike Reilly is considered by many to be the heart and soul, as well as the Voice of Ironman. The desire to hear him call me an IRONMAN was the beacon that led me through the long training sessions necessary to prepare for a 140.6 mile journey. Many other athletes completing an IRONMAN race will say the same thing.Mike’s book is a fascinating and moving look at what makes IRONMAN so captivating, rewarding, and irresistible to many. Mike shares his experiences with icons like Dick and Rick Hoyt, the legendary athletes of the Iron-war, and MANY more well AND less well known, but equally compelling IRONMAN finishers. His glimpses into the hearts and minds of so many inspiring Ironmen are riveting to read.If you have had the blessing and privilege to be called an IRONMAN, this book will make you even more proud to be in this company. If not, it may make you want to join the Ironman club. At the very least, it will make you reconsider what is possible.Thank You for sharing your incredible journey with us Mike Reilly!!!

This was quite unexpected in a couple of ways. First, I purchased the Audiobook version without thoroughly reading the info on the book. I thought I was getting a book about a Ironman triathlete not a book by the ANNOUNCER of the Ironman Triathlon. I thought, I paid for it I might as well give it a chance. The beginning seemed pretty hokey and I was about give up on it. Then Reilly told a story and I was getting choked up. Then another story got me, then another. This book is full of touching thoughtful stories told by an amazing man. The audiobook has the big plus of Reilly being the narrator ... his enthusiasm jumps out at you! I’ve never done a triathlon (done a few marathons) and it is not likely I ever will BUT I may go watch one now! Reilly has inspired me!

Mike Reilly tells his story, but captures the essence of what we all experience on these grueling days. His stories are moving, his feelings are visceral, and his efforts are sincere. If or someone you know is considering toeing the line to a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, and then a 26.2 mile run, this is a must-read. This isn't a training manual, a how-to book, or a breakdown of what it takes to get to the finish line; but it is chock-full of inspirational stories, sure to stir up emotion, and get you going for race day. Even though Mike has called me across the finish line for most of the 11 Ironman finish lines I never knew the degree of preparation he puts into each race. It's not just about calling about names, it's about bestowing a title and distinction no one will ever be able to take away!!! Also worth noting, it's the 1st book I've read cover-to-cover in a long time!!

This is without doubt one of the greatest sports books I have ever read . Period. Mike grabs you from the first page and holds you til the last , the stories of courage and survival within are truly inspiring , along with some great anecdotes ! You don't have to be a triathlete to love this book , anyone with an interest in any kind of sport or just human interest will find this book engaging , I genuinely can't recommend it highly enough

Being a multiple Ironman I thoroughly loved reading this book. Had goosebumps and a tear or 2 in places. Not being a natural athlete and far from athletic in general my road to the red carpet was a struggle, however compared to some of the subjects of the book I am blessed. Thanks for writing it Mike, maybe one day I will get to Kona.I have lent it to non triathletes and they enjoyed it to. Its about the human spirit.

Just an awe inspiring read. Funny, informative, interesting and exhilarating. Makes you want to immediately get out there and start training.

From a readers point of view, it's an excellent look at what it's like as both a spectator-observer and participant in Ironmans. His unique insight over 20 years has given him anonymity and at the same time, he IS the voice you most associate with finishing an Ironman competition.Great read.

This book is absolutely incredible. I am fortunate to run a triathlon podcast where I speak with triathletes daily, hearing their stories of struggles and triumphs, so I must say this book really hits home! Mike trulyCaught all aspects of triathlon and shines light on the fact that every triathlete has a story, and although it may not be noticeable on the outside; it is always there on the inside! Amazing work Mike, this has probably been my favourite book of all times!