To the editor:

To the wonderful Lake Placid community: I had the privilege of competing in my first full Ironman race on Sunday, July 25. While my bid to become an Ironman came up just a bit short, both my husband and I enjoyed the entire weekend, and I have already made plans to return and cross that famed Ironman finish line next year!

A huge thank-you to your entire community for being so welcoming and encouraging! We were greeted warmly everywhere we went — from our wonderful hosts at the Mirror Lake Inn, to restaurants, retail shops, and even the grocery store. And, the race volunteers, spectators, and law enforcement working traffic control were absolutely spectacular!

As someone who also lives in a resort community, I understand the concerns of residents in regard to hosting major sporting events. I encourage you to keep this world-class Ironman race in beautiful Lake Placid and to keep the date in late July (when beautiful Mirror Lake is perfect for swimming!).

Thank you for allowing us to participate in this spectacular event in a truly amazing place. We love Lake Placid and look forward to joining you again next year.

With much gratitude and respect,

Jennifer Schubert-Akin,

Steamboat Springs, Colo.