Iron Will
Michael surrounded by his family. They have been there with him at every Ironman.
A Story of Iron Will by Elizabeth Sheridan
This Ironman story is one of faith, resilience, and the power of family. Anchored by his deep
spiritual beliefs, Michael Whetstone has faced numerous setbacks that tested both his physical
and emotional limits. From unexpected challenges that derailed his path to moments of doubt
that seemed insurmountable, he found strength in his unwavering faith, the steadfast support of
his family, and his own iron will. Michael forged a journey to the Kona Ironman World
Championship defined by determination, hope, and an unyielding spirit that inspires all who hear
his story.
The Ironman Challenge
The Ironman triathlon is one of the world’s most grueling endurance races, combining a 2.4-mile
swim, a 112-mile bike ride, and a 26.2-mile marathon. For many, completing an Ironman
represents the pinnacle of human resilience and achievement. The Kona World Championship,
held in Hawaii, stands as the ultimate test, requiring athletes to qualify through exceptional
performance or years of dedication.
Athletes qualify through several pathways including the Kona Legacy Program. The Legacy
Program provides a pathway for long-time Ironman participants who have not qualified through
competitive placement. To qualify:
1. Athletes must have completed at least 12 full-distance Ironman races.
2. They must have never competed in the Kona World Championship.
3. They must have completed at least one Ironman event in the past two years.
4. They must be registered for an upcoming Ironman event.
Michael’s Background
Michael’s path into the world of running and triathlons began with an early and innate
connection to running. Reflecting on his childhood, Michael says, “As far as I understood it, all
little boys ran. I started running so young that I can’t even remember when it was, and I have
been running ever since.”
This passion continued through high school and evolved into a lifelong pursuit of endurance
sports. Inspired by friends in a local running group, Michael entered his first triathlon in 1994.
By 2006, he completed his first full iron-distance in Florida, setting the stage for a journey that
would span decades and include completing over 30 half Iron-distance and 16 full Iron-distance
challenges culminating in the Kona World Championship at age 70.
Michael’s athletic achievements and the unwavering support of his family are deeply
intertwined, creating a story of resilience, determination, and love that exemplifies the strength
of both individual and collective will.
Road to Kona
Team Whetstone is a force!
Battle with Cancer: Preparing for the 2022 Florida Ironman
Michael’s journey to the Ironman World Championship in Kona was marked by extraordinary
determination and resilience, even in the face of unforeseen challenges. During the Ironman
Texas run, Michael faced an unprecedented struggle. As Jackie recalled, “Michael kept telling us
he was just too tired and didn’t feel like he could make it. It’s the first time he’s said that in all
these years.” However, with minutes to spare, Michael made it in. The following week, he was
diagnosed with prostate cancer, a revelation that shed light on the uncharacteristic fatigue he had
battled during the race. Undeterred, Michael chose to postpone surgery, dedicating himself to
training and competing in the 2022 Florida Ironman—a pivotal race to keep his Kona dream
alive. With the support of his medical team, he meticulously balanced race preparation with
managing his health, embodying the perseverance that has defined his journey. Crossing the
finish line at the 2022 Florida Ironman was a testament to Michael’s resilience and strategic
planning. Just days later, on November 9, 2022, he underwent surgery to treat his prostate cancer.
The procedure, which involved inserting radioactive seeds, was carefully chosen for its
minimally invasive nature and shorter recovery time, ensuring Michael could return to training as
soon as possible.
On the bike in Kona
Setbacks and Triumphs: Preparing for the 2023 Florida Ironman
The path to the 2023 Florida Ironman, and ultimately Kona, was riddled with setbacks. On the
day he resumed cycling in early 2023, Michael suffered a bike accident just a mile from his
home, resulting in a broken clavicle and another recovery obstacle. In April, another fall at home
re-broke the healing clavicle, requiring surgery to replace an old plate with a longer one, leading
to an extended recovery period.
“I hastily went to work converting a 48-week training plan into a condensed 16-week version,”
Michael recalled. “Preparing for an Iron distance event is a daunting challenge to do in a year’s
time. Beginning at Ground Zero, in all three disciplines in June, with only pool water resistance
for an arm workout, is not exactly Ironman training.”
Despite these challenges, Michael pushed forward with characteristic determination. Starting
from scratch in June, he crafted a training plan that maximized efficiency and focused on core
endurance. By fall, he was ready to tackle the 2023 Florida Ironman, albeit with a mix of
confidence and trepidation.
The 2023 Florida Ironman: Challenges and Perseverance
Race day at the 2023 Florida Ironman brought its own set of hurdles. Michael vividly recounted
the difficulties he faced, from grappling with a misconfigured bike computer after accidentally
hitting the wrong button at the start—causing it to jump into an unfamiliar mode that took 2.6
miles to resolve—to dealing with a bike shifter battery issue that had plagued him since late
September -- to unexpected physical struggles, “I was so stressed out over my sub-17-hour effort
that I had to continually ask people what time of day it was,” he shared, reflecting on the mental
challenge of pacing himself amidst fatigue and uncertainty.
Michael persevered and completed the 2023 Florida Ironman, earning his acceptance through the
Legacy Program to the Kona World Championship. For the first time, Michael hired a coach,
Katie Malone, to help him prepare for Kona. With Katie’s guidance, they crafted an intensive
training regimen for him to follow.
Kona: Roadblocks and Overcoming Obstacles
In July 2024, just 3 months before the Kona World Championship, Michael suffered a severe
bike crash during a preparatory race. The accident left him with four pelvic fractures, an injury
that would have ended the season for most athletes. However, Michael refused to let this
roadblock derail his dream. Following the crash, he underwent percutaneous skeletal fixation
surgery using CurvaFix technology to stabilize his pelvis, a procedure requiring expert precision
and offering a faster path to recovery.
The journey ahead was anything but straightforward. Michael transitioned from a wheelchair to a
walker, then to crutches, and finally to a cane. His early recovery milestones were remarkable,
including walking a mile with a walker just days after surgery—a testament to his physical
strength and mental resolve. Even so, the road to Kona required more than physical healing; it
demanded an unparalleled level of adaptability, resilience, and sheer willpower.
A critical turning point came when Michael sought out a physical therapist who shared his belief
in the possibility of success. His first therapist doubted he could achieve his goal of competing in
Kona, and Michael quickly realized that such negativity had no place on his team. Instead, he
found a therapist whose unwavering positivity matched his own resolve. Michael credits this
mindset shift as a key factor in his recovery.
Rehabilitation and Condensed Training
Michael’s training plans, already intense, were further condensed to accommodate his
rehabilitation. Coach Katie Malone described him as someone whose tenacity and determination
stood out even among seasoned athletes. “This would mean the season was over for most
people” Katie wrote in her newsletter. “But I knew that would not happen with Michael”.
Together, they adapted his plan countless times, finding creative ways to build strength and
endurance while respecting the limits of his healing body.
Katie credited Michael’s success to his incredible work ethic and mental toughness. Even when
the odds seemed stacked against him, Michael stayed focused, completing every adjustment to
his training program with a positive attitude and relentless determination. His ability to navigate
this condensed preparation period was further bolstered by the unwavering presence of Team
Whetstone, a 28-member family powerhouse led by his wife of 50 years, Jackie. As Katie
observed, “Michael’s family support was unlike anything she had ever seen”—an essential
ingredient in his triumph.
Family as Foundation
Michael’s incredible athletic achievements are matched only by the unwavering love and support
of his family. Team Whetstone is not just a support network—it’s a living testament to the power
of unity, love, and shared purpose. Michael’s wife, Jackie, and their children and grandchildren
are by his side every step of the way, ensuring that his dreams become reality.
Jackie is truly Michael’s partner, embodying selflessness and determination. Just days before a
crucial qualifying race for the Ironman World Championships, Jackie underwent surgery for
breast cancer but that did not deter her traveling to support him at the Gulf Coast race. Similarly,
only days after completing her radiation treatment, Jackie put her needs aside to care for Michael
after his severe cycling accident. Her tireless devotion, described by their son Kenny as making
“his dreams her dreams by default,” exemplifies a love so profound it becomes the backbone of
his success.
In 2024, just days before their scheduled departure to Hawaii for the Kona World Championship,
Jackie faced another serious health crisis that landed her in the hospital. Despite doctors urging
her to remain under care, she left the hospital mere hours before their flight. Jackie explained
that this would not have been possible without Team Whetstone who “took great care of me for
two weeks.” After their return from Hawaii, Jackie underwent surgery to remove part of her
intestine. When asked what motivated her to make the sacrifices that underscores her unyielding
commitment to Michael’s success., she replied, “Love. Plain and simple.”
The rest of Team Whetstone is no less remarkable. Michael’s children and grandchildren have
rallied around him, not just during races but also in the countless hours of preparation leading up
to them. Their dedication is evident in the extraordinary lengths they go to ensure that Michael
feels their support. Jackie coordinates the monumental task of logistics for up to 27 family
members attending an event, carefully mapping out viewing spots, planning routes, and ensuring
they’re in position to cheer for him at every possible point. They arrive at each race in new
custom-designed Team Whetstone T-shirts, proudly displaying their unity and love for Michael.
For them, supporting their patriarch is a full-day commitment filled with joy, anticipation, and
teamwork.
The traditions and moments shared by Team Whetstone during races have become part of their
family legacy. Granddaughter Norah speaks of lining up with the family to give Michael high-
fives, describing it as a way of connecting with their hero. Another tradition involves playing
upbeat music not just for Michael but for all the athletes, bringing encouragement and smiles to
everyone passing by. Granddaughter Maizeigh recalls ringing a light-up tambourine to catch
Michael’s attention and cheering so loudly it always brought a smile to his face, even during the
toughest stretches. Between race segments, the family often gathers for breakfast at local diners,
overwhelming the staff with their large numbers and enthusiasm. They even incorporate their
love of Gamecock football into their support, keeping Michael updated on scores with posters
held high and playing his favorite game-day songs to keep his spirits high.
Reflecting on the sacrifices his family has made, Michael said, “I really don’t know how others
manage to endure this challenging event without family support out there. Team Whetstone has
pulled, encouraged, lifted and inspired me to get across that darn finish line again and again. I
sense the sacrifices the awesome members of Team Whetstone have made to be a “participant” in
this event. The work, school, youth activities, financial, travel, and even sleep opportunities that
were adjusted or just pushed aside never go unnoticed. Those are the things that make our Team
so wonderful.” Ultimately, Team Whetstone’s efforts are more than just support; they are a powerful force that
fuels Michael’s determination and resilience. Jackie and their family have proven that great
achievements are rarely the work of one person alone. Instead, they are the culmination of a
village—a team bound by love, united by purpose, and driven by the belief that together,
anything is possible.
Running on the famous Ali’i Drive in Kona is a dream come true!
Reaching Kona
By October 2024, Michael stood on the starting line in Kona, defying all odds. The Kona World
Championship is widely regarded as one of the most grueling endurance races in the world. For
Michael, it wasn’t just about the physical demands of the 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride, and
26.2-mile run. It was also about overcoming the lingering effects of his cycling accident and
condensed training schedule while navigating the extreme heat and crosswinds of Hawaii—all
while racing against the ever-present clock. Reflecting on the journey, Coach Katie Malone
highlighted the incredible determination and adaptability that had brought him to this point.
"This story is about the power of mental training, tenacity, and good old-fashioned hard work,"
she wrote. For Michael, Kona was more than a race—it was the culmination of a lifetime of
perseverance, proving that obstacles, no matter how daunting, could be overcome with faith,
family, and fortitude.
The Swim
Michael entered Kailua Bay with determination, knowing that his first hurdle was beating the
cutoff time for the swim. Battling ocean currents and the chaos of hundreds of other swimmers,
he relied on his training and focus to push through. Emerging from the water, he felt the first
wave of triumph, relieved to have cleared the swim cutoff and greeted by the cheers of Jackie
and his children waiting at the transition area.
The Bike
The bike course, a grueling 112 miles along the Queen Ka’ahumanu Highway, tested Michael’s
resilience to the limit. The relentless heat radiating off the lava fields and the gusting crosswinds
made every mile a battle. His focus remained on the clock, pushing through pain and fatigue to
stay ahead of the bike cutoff time. Michael’s children tracked his progress through the course,
moving strategically to cheer him on at key points. Jackie, who described the day as a whirlwind
of emotions—“anxious, scared, excited”—prayed constantly for him to make each checkpoint.
The Run
The marathon, a 26.2-mile run through the lava fields, was Michael’s ultimate test. With the sun
beating down and the unforgiving terrain stretching before him, he once again turned his focus to
the clock. Every step was a race against the run cutoff time, as fatigue and pain threatened to
derail his progress. Each checkpoint he passed brought relief and renewed determination, a sign
that the dream was still within reach.
Moments of Doubt and Triumph
As the hours stretched on and the finish line remained elusive, Jackie prayed fervently. “I’m not
sure I can put into words the feelings of that day,” she said. “I begged Heavenly Father to just let
him finish, even if he only had one second left before time ran out. Because I knew with him
being 70 that this was likely his one and only shot of finishing in Kona, and he had worked too
hard not to get that dream.”
Back home in South Carolina, a multitude of family and friends followed Michael’s progress
through the Ironman app, cheering him on despite the late hour. When he crossed the finish line,
they watched in awe as he embraced Jackie, the love and support of his journey reflected in that
singular moment. Over the loudspeakers, the words rang out: “Michael Whetstone, you are an
Ironman.” But Michael wasn’t the only Ironman that day. His son Kenny, reflecting on Jackie’s sacrifices
and strength, wrote, “Mom made questionable health decisions and endured more pain than she
would dare share with us to make it all happen. Knowing that the Ironman is as much mentally
grueling as physically, I feel confident that she weighed her own health against the mental
distress it would cause her husband to leave out by himself and chose the team over self. Mom
has always been an integral part in the success of our Ironman, but never so much as this one.
Without her sacrifices of many varieties, including her own health, this all would not have taken
place. Jackie Whetstone... YOU are an Ironman!”
In that moment, it became clear that Kona was not just a race—it was a triumph of family, faith,
and love. For Michael, the finish line was not just the culmination of his own journey but a
reflection of the countless sacrifices and unyielding support that had carried him there.
Finally at the finish with so much to smile about!
Life Lessons and Legacy
Resilience: Believing That Anything Is Possible
Reflecting on his journey, Michael acknowledges that his story is about more than just personal
achievement. It is about inspiring others, especially future generations, to pursue their own
dreams no matter the difficulties they face. “I want my grandchildren to know,” he said, “that no
matter what life throws at you, you have the strength to keep going. If you lean on your faith and
those who love you, there is no limit to what you can achieve.”
Granddaughter Norah described how witnessing his journey has set a standard for her own life:
“I can’t ever have an excuse to give up, because I saw Big Daddy, broken in every way, finish
Kona.” His determination has become a legacy, inspiring not only his family but countless others
who have followed his story.
Final Reflection: Gratitude and Faith
For Michael, the journey to Kona was not just about physical endurance or personal triumph—it
was a deeply spiritual experience. His faith in God was a constant source of strength, guiding
him through the trials and triumphs of the race and the journey leading up to it. Michael is quick
to express his gratitude for the blessings he received, from the healing that allowed him to train
and race after his injury to the strength that carried him through each stage of the race. Michael
reflected, “The most welcoming sight was not that “darn finish line” but the welcoming arms of
my sweetheart of over fifty years, my best cheerleader. Right behind her were each of our
children and their spouses. I cannot begin to thank all who assisted in making this possible. The
doctors, surgeons, therapists, my coach, training partners, most importantly the countless
thoughts, prayers and blessings. We were all praying for the Lord’s answer to our prayers and we
are grateful for His answers”.
Michael Whetstone’s journey to Kona will be remembered not only as an extraordinary athletic
achievement but as a story of faith, family, and the enduring belief that no dream is too big. He
admits that God has blessed him with the ability to train for these events at his age but that one
day, he will not be able to do so. “So, for now”, Michael concludes, “I will continue to run the
race that lies before me”. Michael’s legacy serves as a beacon of inspiration, proving that with
resilience, teamwork, and an iron will, anything truly is possible.