Chase That Smile: Approaching Midlife: a Marathon, Mount Kilimanjaro and an Ironman Triathlon

Harold has written a compelling account of the challenges he set for himself as he approached his fortieth birthday. The manner in which he managed to balance extensive training, family life, work and social interactions was inspirational. I read the book on my kindle over a couple of days and found it well-written and engaging throughout. A great read, thanks Harold!

Chase That Smile is the memoir of Harold Cabrera; a man who, approaching his fortieth birthday, decided to make it a milestone year. Harold planned to run a marathon, climb Mount Kilimanjaro and take part in an Ironman triathlon contest all in one year.In this very readable but candid book, Harold takes us through his seven month training and his three experiences with the highs and lows in between. Harold has a very positive and appreciative attitude which helps motivate him.I liked how he interspersed snippets of his training with a few day-to-day points as well as memories from other times. They helped to round out the book and allowed the reader get to know Harold. I often felt that we were right there running, cycling, swimming and climbing with him. The back of the book contains some training schedules for both a marathon and an ironman for those who might want to give any of it go. I thought that the book was well worth the read; from an armchair experience point of view, the Mount Kilimanjaro climb, in particular, was delightful.

I felt inspired by what was possible despite the time constraints of family and work to become not only an Ironman but a mountaineer and marathoner! The diary accounts of the various obstacles that reveal themselves at inopportune times show that perfection is an impossibility but rather grit and determination trumps all. An easy recommendation.