Family and friends travel hundreds of miles to support pair of brothers in Ironman

PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) – The Ironman triathlon. It’s more than a competition; it’s a lifestyle.

While spectators and volunteers get to enjoy the sights and sounds of athletes pushing themselves to their limits, they don’t always see what it takes to keep going.

That’s why groups like Team Finn are there every step of the way.

“We are supporting my two brothers, John and Tyler Finn. Our parents are here, along with many of Tyler’s friends, John’s wife, and their kids,” said Nicole Finn, a member of Team Finn.

Brothers John and Tyler Finn have been training for over a year for the Ironman, sacrificing time with family and friends to prepare for the challenge.

That’s one reason the people closest to them made sure to be here for the big day.

“I was completely supportive of his decision to do this whole thing; he put in the work, so I am really proud of him,” said Monique Vaz, Tyler Finn’s girlfriend.

The brothers didn’t realize just how much support they would have.

On Thursday, Tyler’s closest friends surprised him at dinner.

After missing their friend for much of the year, they decided it was time to come to him.

“He‘s missed out on trips, dinners, and holidays. We like to go to Vermont a lot, go skiing, and enjoy the lake. We try to plan things, but he always says, ‘Guys, I can’t go; I’m training.’ He was dedicated, and as soon as we saw his commitment, we knew we had to come down and be there for him,” said PJ Proto, Tyler’s best friend.

Well, they were there, in the early morning as the brothers plunged into the Gulf. When they traded in their wetsuits for bike helmets, their support was unwavering, and they would be especially loud when the brothers crossed the finish line.

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