I'll try to be saving myself the whole iron-man, I mostly just want to finish. But then again I'll probably get excited at some point and start going fast. I'll make sure to get some major mileage under my belt so I can pace myself well and deal with all the tiredness.
By the way, Ijust got done with my 10 mile (it was two weeks away when I was asked) and it wasn't too bad. I'll be sure to do a RR, for anyone that cares.
I personally don't know anyone that I am friends with that has done an Ironman or half Ironman. That would be a great accomplishment especially at your age, go for it man! Running frees the mind, and doing it barefoot is a bonus!