If you are a triathlete like Neal Henderson, there is no bigger day than the Ford Ironman World Championship in Hawaii on October 10th, a day he has dreamt about for more than fifteen years.

Like his first cousin Tug McGraw, Henderson’s bull-headed determination runs deep. Since 1998, Henderson has been running Ironman triathlons in an attempt to qualify for the world championship in Hawaii, one of the most recognized endurance events in the world. After five races, he persevered and finally qualified. “I’d come close in previous attempts, but getting to Hawaii was one of the best days of my life,” says Henderson.

Each year, more than 80,000 athletes compete for slots to the Ford Ironman World Championship held every October in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. The championship Iron Man event consists of a 2.4 mile swim, a grueling 112-mile bike ride and a 26.2 mile run.

When asked how he did it, Henderson replied, “I gotta believe… …in myself, in my family and friends, and in my dreams. No matter what life has thrown my way, going after what I want has been the greatest journey of all. Sometimes I have found that I needed a little help along the way…and that’s ok. I have surrounded myself with great people who believe in me and support me. They have made the journey worthwhile. Even at the age of 76, I haven’t stopped believing. It’s what has gotten me through life… and to ultimately to Hawaii. I am proud to be running on behalf of Team McGraw. Tug would be proud. Ya gotta believe.”