November 6, 2025 – On November 1, 2025, David Burns, GSC’s Corporate Director of Analytics, achieved a remarkable personal milestone: he became an Ironman. Competing in the renowned Ironman Florida in Panama City Beach, David crossed the finish line at 9:33 p.m. after 14 hours, 8 minutes, and 23 seconds of swimming, cycling, and running—totaling an extraordinary 140.6 miles.
The day began with a frigid 52-degree morning as he dove into the Gulf for a 2.4-mile swim, followed by a 112-mile bike ride through pine tree forests, and concluded with a full 26.2-mile marathon along the coast. Though this was David’s first full Ironman, it marked the culmination of a journey that began in 2024 and included several shorter triathlons and a Half Ironman just one month prior.
“I’ve always admired those who’ve completed an Ironman,” David shared. “It takes great effort and resilience complete it, and I wanted my kids to know they belong to a family who can do hard things.” That commitment meant training 15–18 hours per week, often at the expense of personal time. “I had to say ‘No’ to a lot of good things in order to say ‘Yes’ to one great thing.”
David’s race was not without obstacles. He dodged jellyfish in the ocean, endured a bike crash at mile 17, and even had severe stomach issues—all while pushing through the pain of road rash. Despite these trials, he never considered quitting. “I learned I can do hard things. The Ironman may happen in a day, but the character it takes to finish one is forged in dark, early mornings and cold pools.”
He credits his wife, family, and a supportive circle of coworkers and friends—many of whom tracked his progress through the Ironman app—for helping him get to the finish line. “I knew they were watching, praying, and cheering me on. I also knew they would panic if I stopped, so I had to keep moving. That knowledge was a gift.”
David sees clear parallels between his triathlon training and leadership at GSC. “Whether it’s starting something you’ve been avoiding or choosing to keep going when it’s hard, growth comes from pushing through.”
Though he jokes that he’s now “retired” from full Ironmans, David plans to continue racing in shorter triathlons and investing more time in his growing family. He encourages others to consider the sport. “You can start small—with a swimsuit, a bike, and sneakers. The community is supportive, and the lessons in grit and gratitude are life-changing.”
David’s journey is a powerful example of GSC’s spirit—pursuing excellence with humility, perseverance, and purpose. Congratulations, David, on this exceptional achievement!
