From the classroom to the race track
Rudmann completed the Ironman challenge while maintaining a full-time position at Garney Construction through the university's cooperative education program. Her days began at 4:00 AM with either a swim or a bike ride, followed by a transition to work by 6:30 AM. The alternating semesters of coursework and hands-on field work in the co-op model provided her the necessary flexibility to pursue such an intense training schedule for the race.
Originally, Rudmann was enrolled in an architecture program, but after only four days, she realized it wasn't a good fit for her. She was intrigued by the structural and mathematical components of the field, but found the studio design aspect unappealing. This prompted her to switch to the College of Engineering and Applied Science, where she found more satisfaction in the technical coursework. Ultimately, she settled into the construction management program, which balanced her interest in structural elements with opportunities for practical, hands-on work.
Her time in the construction management program brought valuable experiences, including managing construction site labor audits and using CAD for mechanical drawings. The co-op program at Garney Construction, located in North Carolina, gave her four semesters of real-world application in construction, including working on concrete projects and gaining field and office experience.
The long road to race day
Rudmann began her athletic journey with smaller races, starting with an Olympic-distance triathlon after being inspired by her boyfriend's marathon success. The Olympic triathlon, consisting of a 0.93-mile swim, a 24.85-mile bike ride, and a 6.2-mile run, was her entry point into competitive events. After completing it, she progressed to a half Ironman, or the 70.3 triathlon. Initially, she thought such a challenge was only for the most extreme athletes.
Her interest in the full Ironman grew with time, and she eventually committed to training for the complete event. Her preparation was grueling. Every morning started at 4:00 AM with a swim or bike ride, and she would return after a long day at work to another session. The cycle repeated week after week, building up to the demanding 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride, and 26.2-mile marathon that constitute the full Ironman triathlon. The entire race must be completed within 17 hours.
Despite her discipline, Rudmann faced unexpected financial hurdles. Her car broke down and required thousands of dollars in repairs just as her training was nearing completion. At the same time, the Ironman entry fee alone costs $1,000. For a while, she considered withdrawing entirely. 'I almost didn’t do it,' she admitted. 'But I was almost ready, and I knew I’d never be this close to completing it again.'
Battling obstacles on the course
The race itself presented further challenges, especially during the 112-mile bike leg. On the course in Jacksonville, Florida, Rudmann experienced three asthma attacks, which forced her to stop multiple times. Each time, she caught her breath and continued, determined to finish despite the physical toll.
The event attracted nearly 2,000 athletes and began at 7:30 AM. Rudmann completed it in just under 15 and a half hours, finishing with a sense of accomplishment. The race marked a personal milestone for her, a testament to her perseverance, and a memory she will carry with her into her full-time career at Garney Construction after graduation.
Throughout her academic journey and athletic pursuits, Rudmann has demonstrated a strong work ethic and determination. Outside of her co-op work and studies, she has been involved in campus organizations such as Engineers Without Borders and Phi Sigma Rho. She also once participated in the club swim team, where she found motivation in pushing her limits and achieving personal bests.
While she has no interest in competing in another Ironman, Rudmann has set her sights on her future in construction. The co-op program at Garney Construction has given her a comprehensive understanding of the industry and prepared her for a full-time role post-graduation. She looks forward to applying her technical skills and hands-on experience in the field, continuing to build her career in the same way she built her strength for the race.
