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Friday, October 30, 2026Oct 30

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A guide to Ironman drop bags, plus tips on what (not) to pack from an experienced Chattanooga triathlete

Photo contributed by FinisherPix / April and David Pearson cross the finish line together at the 2019 Florida Ironman, marking April's first Ironman finish and David's 12th. Through all the miles he's covered, David calls this his proudest Ironman moment.
Photo contributed by FinisherPix / April and David Pearson cross the finish line together at the 2019 Florida Ironman, marking April's first Ironman finish and David's 12th. Through all the miles he's covered, David calls this his proudest Ironman moment. Photo contributed by FinisherPix / April and David Pearson cross the finish line together at the 2019 Florida Ironman, marking April's first Ironman finish and David's 12th. Through all the miles he's covered, David calls this his proudest Ironman moment.

For most, competing in an Ironman triathlon would be a lifetime achievement.

For Chattanooga’s David Pearson and his wife April, it’s a lifestyle.

David, 59, has now completed 12 full Ironman events. April, 48, has completed one. And this year, the couple is registered for three: Texas and California in October; Florida in November.

Leading up to the races, the Pearsons train six times a week, incorporating a variety of swim, bike and run workouts. Following the race, they trade a few of their high-intensity days for hikes or fast walks.

“We typically use (half) Ironmans to maintain a level fitness in between regular races,” he says.