Inspiration

Colin Bodels
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

52

Where do you live?

Philadelphia, USA

Instagram

@irishfella_runningwild

Strava

Colin Bodels

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I swam competitively as a teenager but after that was pretty inactive and had zero interest in doing anything sports/athletic until about age 37. To raise funds for a charitable organization, I decided to do something that no-one would think I’d be capable of or ever do – a triathlon. Completed that goal and then kept training until I hit the half Ironman distance. The swim came natural to me, the bike I loathed but what it brought to me was something new and I found that I really enjoyed it. As I kept training for triathlons, the running kept winning, so ultimately, I decided to ditch the bike and focus on run goals. Now, I train hard and over the years have built strength/mobility/stability work into my training programs which has helped me greatly as a runner.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

I like the headspace running provides. I’m a no music and early dark runner, so I enjoy that it removes me from devices and running in that quiet space/time where there’s only me in the world. The ancillary benefits of running/training are of course also wonderful as I get older. I will admit though that what motivates me is being competitive with myself. Setting goals that you have to work hard to achieve, that definitely drives me. The running/headspace to get there is what I enjoy. I’ve met some amazing people both as running/pace partners and at races. Racing is brilliant! The energy and being around people all collectively chasing goals – it’s just electric! I think my proudest accomplishment was going sub 3 at marathon for the first time when I was 48. It’s all a fantastic journey!

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

I’ve had a few injuries here and there over the past 12 or so years. Weirdly, any breaks haven’t been run related, mostly dumb falls, etc. that have taken me out of action for a time. Last year, I was training hard for a big goal at the Berlin Marathon but a non-run related health issues came out of the blue that required surgery and led to various post surgery issues that had me benched for the longest time ever. In March of 2022, I was cleared to get back to training and I’m enjoying clawing my way back to fitness with last year’s Berlin goal now in my sights for September this year.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

Not one major issue but I do think that running has definitely helped with maintaining a healthy mindset and using that run space as my space for processing the little and the large challenges that life may be throwing me.

What is your “why?”

To find out what I can do with my body to achieve my goals. As I get older, my new goals keep pushing me to run faster. We’ll see how long that lasts.

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

I’m that runner who probably doesn’t know how to use half the things on my Garmin and am a pretty no-fuss run kit fella. I’d say my favorite piece of kit are two pairs of Mizuno running shorts that should probably be thrown out by now but I keep going back to them. I’ll be racing in them in tatters soon!

Do you have a favorite race or event?

I enjoy running fast, so 5k is a favorite distance to race. After that, I think half marathon is my favorite longer event. However, I seem to keep doing marathons these days in my quest to run all six World Majors. Berlin and Chicago are on the calendar for 2022.

What’s next?

Just about to start marathon training for Berlin in September. That’s my goal race this year, with a 2:50 or under the goal. Chicago is a few weeks after that but hoping that will just be for fun if I nail my Berlin goal.

Any fun facts about yourself?

Even though I work with a great coach, I’m known for randomly jumping into races when they’re not on plan or doing two 5ks in one day. That’s the kind of idiot my poor coach has to deal with.

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Find the sport/activity you like to do first because then you’ll keep doing it. That’s what running became for me. I still don’t like the bike and will do everything I can to avoid it. Don’t let the first few weeks of doing any sport/activity defeat you. We’ve all started somewhere. I hated running the first 4-5 weeks I did it. Nothing felt right about it to me. But sticking with it, I began to see improvements in my form/pace/speed and that just kept me going. If you stick with it to see some result, it can be incredibly motivating. Some other key bits of advice I’d give to anyone starting out on their running journey is to make sure you get properly fitted for shoes, from a local running store who know their stuff and to add strength/stability training into your run training program.
Continue ReadingColin Bodels
Ilana Kearns
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

44

Where do you live?

Roswell, GA

Website

https://goatmatters.com

Ironman Foundation

Strava

https://www.strava.com/athletes/33225294

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I swam as a kid, but sports were not encouraged in my household growing up. I did not get into sports seriously until 2015 when I learned I was a carrier of the faulty BRCA1 gene and had to have a mastectomy. Later that year, a four-hour surgery followed by two additional surgeries. I wanted to get into the best shape possible for surgery. 

Meanwhile, at work, I was writing a newsletter and one of the guys I was featuring happened to do IRONMAN which is how I learned about triathlons. While IRONMAN intrigued me at the time, it was more of an idea than something I thought I could do; I picked his brain about running injuries because at the time I was always getting shin splints. He told me about Newton Running Shoes, a minimal dropped shoe (the presenting sponsor of IRONMAN that year) and his running coach. 

A week before my mastectomy, I ran the Atlanta 10 miler and returned to running two weeks post op, I was cleared to run but no weightlifting for several months. By week 11 I ran the Hot Chocolate 15K and almost to the date a year later, I had run a couple of half-marathons and quietly celebrated the year of surgeries alone doing the Rock N Roll Las Vegas Half Marathon followed by a massage. 

Unfortunately, the celebration was short-lived as a series of unfortunate health events followed that subsequently led to a ministroke in 2017 and an eating disorder. I was so exhausted – I was consuming about 6 to 8 cups of coffee a day and was struggling with incredible amounts of inflammation. 

I left corporate unexpectedly in 2018 and since then began overhauling my eating habits and life. I trained and finished my first full marathon in March 2019. 

When COVID hit in 2020, I was divorced, on my own and my gym was closed. So I took out my old fitness bike which I rarely used and began cycling outdoors. I rode exactly 100 miles in April of 2020 and running about a 100 miles a month. 

By June, the pool reopened at my gym and I went swimming for the first time since I was a kid. It was humbling at best. Took me 1.5 hours to swim 1.2 miles. I kept at it. 

In September of 2021, I did my first triathlon ever, a 70.3 mile triathlon in Augusta and finished in 6:24. And I wanted to go further. Now 2 years post COVID, I have run nearly 3,800 miles, cycled 10,000 miles and have swum 486,000 yards as I train for IM California as an IRONMAN Foundation Athlete.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

The discipline and work ethic I have developed. You get out of it what you put into it. And there are no shortcuts, you have to do the work.
 

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

Yes, just five weeks ago I was hit by a car in the midst of a 9-mile run. Despite hitting the ground hard, I was able to get up, brush myself off and finish my run home. Only when I changed clothes did I see what a mess my elbow was. I cleaned up, drove myself to ER, got some stitches and a splint. I returned to cycling the next day on my indoor trainer and running four days later. 

Now 5 weeks post elbow break, with my elbow still splinted, I have run 152.9 miles, including two half-marathons, one at 8:45 pace! I have cycled over 800 miles on my WAHOO KICKR. I have returned to box jumps and 10lb lateral raises on both arms. I took exactly one over the counter pain pill and 4 ibuprofen since the accident. And because of the mobility I have from the hours of swimming, I was able to continue to be independent and take care of myself as I healed. 

I attribute the strength of my bones to how much I train and my diet, which is dairy free outside of butter.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

Yes!! Confidence inside out. Once upon a time I was more afraid of success than failure. Today it is reverse. 
 
The most profound change of all is my relationship with food which wasn’t always very healthy. As I ramped up training for IRONMAN, I learned very quickly which foods work and don’t based on how I felt training. As a result, today, I cook nearly all my meals with one ingredient foods that are mostly grown or born. I no longer drink coffee or touch preworkout drinks to get through the long training sessions. 
 
Since leaving corporate in 2018, I have lost nearly 40lbs, slashed my cholesterol by 40%, no more inflammation and best part of all? No more allergies. I used to get chronic sinus infections that led to antibiotics followed by a round of steroids to help my breathing. Today, I don’t even touch allergy medication. Don’t need it. I am extremely proud to be training and fueled by real food.
 

What is your “why?”

To inspire others to live a quality life on their terms, starting with our diets and harnessing the power of food that is grown or born, not manufactured. Here in the states, we are in a midst of a serious health crisis, with 73% of Adults obese or overweight. And despite the endless supply of research and studies, chronic conditions like diabetes, cancer, heart disease and mental health ailments are rapidly on the rise. 
 
The worst part of all is what we are role modeling to children; 23% are now obese and 28% are now pre-diabetic. Weight loss and obesity is a big deal and a big business. In fact, The Keto diet has been the most “Googled” diet in 2018 and 2020 and shows no sign of letting up. One recent market report found that the “global ketogenic diet food market is forecasted to reach USD 14.75 billion in 2027, at an estimated compound annual growth rate of 5.5% during the forecast period. And the sad reality is, countless studies are funded by special interest groups with exercise is looked upon as a chore, not a gift. Health is not appreciated until it is gone. And I have no tolerance for cheating in sports.
 

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

My Garmin Fenix watch, Altra Running Shoes (zero drop), Nathan Hydration Vest, Scratch Labs Hydration Mix, Untapped Maple Syrup, Strava, Scott Bike, Marin Bike, Wahoo KICKR Snap, ROUVY, Zwift, Magic5 goggles, Bose Headphones, Google Pixel Phone, Thorlos Running Socks, Swiftwick cycling socks, Giro shoes and helmet, Girodana cycling clothes,
 

Do you have a favorite race or event?

The Rock N Roll Las Vegas Half Marathon. It was a closure to a hellish year of three invasvie surgeries.
 

What’s next?

I am actively training as part of team IMF for my first full IRONMAN, raising funds for the IRONMAN Foundation to support our communities through grant funded programs to get more people active and involved in the power of sports.
 

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Don’t worry about executing a perfect plan, it doesn’t exist. Just start where you are. Eventually, consistency and discipline will pay off. And no training will never get easier, you just get stronger through the process.
 
Continue ReadingIlana Kearns
Sunny Lee
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

47

Where do you live?

Selangor, Malaysia

Website

Here is Sunny’s YouTube Channel.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAJCoh-HXOYnQQRtT8MVRgA

Instagram

@gundam.master

Strava

Gundam Master

UPDATE: Sunny was selected (out of 12,000 applicants!) to the Zwift Academy Run Team for 2022!!!

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I was never athletic back in school but I always dream to be, seeing my friends get selected to represent the school at the district or even at the national levels. Back in the days before the smartphone and computer, one of the favorite boys’ games at school was ‘Cops & Robbers’. I always like to be the Robber so that I can run and run and the Cop will never be able to catch me because I believe I can keep running forever! Once into adulthood, life gets in the way and I had stopped any forms of exercise. I was so busy chasing after money and so-called success. I had a very tumultuous childhood, being chased out from home at 16 by my own abusive and compulsive gambler parents. Guess, I started out everything late since then. At age 39 when life settles down a bit with my boys bigger, I found running again, or perhaps running found me! It has been a marvelous 7 years since.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

Being an athlete, especially in running mimics my own life struggles. That I have to keep on going. Life is tough but I have to be tougher. In a sense, running gave me new meaning in life that there is something that I can do and keep on improving myself without relying on anyone. Running has since been a big part of my life, inseparable. It has definitely shaped me towards becoming a very tough person mentally. I believe we marathoners will go all the way against all odds to achieve the goals in our lives. I am not fast, (and still not fast) but my proudest accomplishment is – I can now run a 10k in 38mins vs 75mins in my first 10k race despite aging.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

It is not easy being a runner for me. In my country where it is very hot and humid, it is even tougher. After each run, I will be drenched wet with sweat that I have to wash my shoes each time. The only possible time for me to run is early morning before the sun rises, I have to wake up 4:30am daily to get my runs in before reaching office by 8:30am. Somehow, I managed, by stop doing many of the other unimportant things in life. Sacrifice is the key word here.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

Yes. It keeps me focus and purposeful. It made me a very discipline person. I did not start running to reduce weight but I was once obese and running has since kept me very healthy. I have recently lost my job, it has been 4 months now being unemployed. And being betrayed. Only those who have gone through the same will understand the feelings – the shame, being all alone in the space, the self-doubt and loss of hope. Running has become my outlet to rejuvenate and re-set so that I could keep on going. I cannot imagine how I will go through this difficult period if not because of running.

What is your “why?”

I often ask myself the same question but never really gets the answer. I am now running 7 days a week averaging 100-130km/week. But sometimes I heard myself saying, ‘God gave me this fitness, after so many years, I cannot just waste it away’. So that essentially keeps me running day after day, week after week, year after year. I will continue running as long as my body allows.

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

It has to be my Garmin 945. I can’t live without it literally. Next would be the crowd favorite Nike Vaporfly for racing, nothing beats it for now!

Do you have a favorite race or event?

That has to be the Tokyo Marathon 2018. But I have a strong feeling my new favorite race is coming soon. I am aiming to run the Berlin Marathon and Boston Marathon one day.

What’s next?

3 Goals in running for me. Breaking the 3-hour barrier for the marathon distance before turning 50 will be my main goal. My second goal will be to run the Boston marathon and finally the third goal is to complete the six World Marathon Majors. Perhaps, after that I will slow down.

Any fun facts about yourself?

I am not a very social person. I started out in Strava-Facebook-Instagram using the profile name Gundam Master. Other than FB, I am still using that name. It actually refers to the famous Japanese mecha model kits Gundam. My other favorite hobby is actually assembling Gundam model kits.

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Just run. Then add mileage. Then vary your paces. Slowly but surely, you will improve. You will get faster in no time.

Any other comments or stories you’d like to share?

The running community is beautiful – the volunteers, the spectators, the organizers, the marshals all play their roles to allow us have our races. If can, give back to the community by being a volunteer or a pacer or even money. Running is something that belongs to us runners, let no one take that away from us.

Continue ReadingSunny Lee
Arpad Farkas

How old are you?

43

Where do you live?

Hungary

Strava

Arpad Farkas

I was a typical young guy chasing career and money after the graduation. For 10 years I did almost no sport. From 75 kg my weight raised to 90 kg by 01.01.2013. At that time, I was sitting in my nice big house alone in first day of the year with a fever. My wife left me (we agreed) and I was wondering what I should do… In the previous months I was drinking almost every evening full bottle of wines and different whiskeys and eating without control to reward myself after a long day at work. So at that day I decided to change my life.

I started to change my diet as my body dictated. I recognized that I needed more raw food. So I found Victoria Butenko’s green smoothie and raw diet. I lost almost 20kg in 3 months without any exercise. Only some yoga.

When I recognized that my body started to change I decided to register myself to a 100km hike in 24 hours which I did 10 years before to see if I was back in shape. I started to go hiking almost every weekend. Started with 25km and raised to 50km and I was able to finish the 100km in 22 hours without any trouble.

I started doing different events, but I preferred trail runs. I feel myself connected in the forests and every time when I see wild animals it feels great and I am still thankful. In 2014 I decided to challenge myself with a traditional marathon in Budapest. My target time was 4 hours. I finished 3:59 something in the Budapest Marathon. For some years I was just running 2-3 times per week as I wanted. Sometimes 50km trail run on the weekend sometimes nothing.

In the summer of 2016, I met a girl who changed my life and inspired me to run more. She and a friend participated in a 2-person relay (Ultrabalaton) and finished 4th with a 3 month preparation. Since that time they returned and in 2018 they finished in 2nd place and in 2020 they won the race. Beside several 50km, 80km and 111km races. I helped her preparation and I made her training plans.

I was also pushing my limits higher and challenged myself on different races like Supermaratona dell’ Etna (43km with almost 3.000 meter of continuous elevation) Mátrabért (55km – 2.800 d+), P85 (85km 3.600 d+) and I was able to make some progress every year.

In 2020 I found a small ball in my neck just above my collarbone. After several test they found that I have cancer and my thyroid gland should be removed. After the operation I must take hormone pills for my entire life. I was shocked.

After the diagnosis I was wondering what I should do… So many feelings were mixed in my soul. Fear, anger, etc… My surgery was planned for 15 of December 2020 so I decided to make a few runs which I may never could do again. So I ran a half marathon PB (below 90 minutes), 90km trail run, PB on Mátrabérc Trail and I was ready to reduce my running activity in December.

My operation went well and after 3 days I was at home. After 2 days I felt much better and after 1 week I was able to go out for a short easy run (my doctor agreed). I was told that I can do easy runs with low heart rate. The pain disappeared and I healed much faster than any other person around.

After lunch it was very challenging to stay awake. I was confused. A few months later after a blood test found that my dose were far too low. So I raised the dose and started to search for a new doctor who can help me to use natural hormones instead of the synthetics which I got at that time.

A few weeks later my medication and my diet has been changed by a new doctor. My power and energy level came back again. It helped me so much that in June I was able to run 45 minutes faster than my previous best in the Supermaratona dell’Etna. (5:13:38) I was above the clouds. I love Sicily and the Mount Etna gives me a special energy.

That year we were there with some hungarian friends and a legendary runner (János Bogár – Spartathlon winner 1991, and many more) My girlfriend finished second and János and his wife won their age group. It was incredible. I was so happy and so thankful!

I feel myself stronger than ever and have a lot of plans for this year: Taking part in 2nd of April in the Black Hole Ultra Running race (the distance is not defined just the range 55-120km, no hear rate monitor, gps or any watch allowed), 3 weeks later Mátrabérc Trail (55km 2.800 d+) for a PB. In May we go for the Vipava Trail in Slovenia. In June going back to Sicily for the Supermaratona dell’Etna, in July Zugspitze ultra trail (85km 3.600d+) The crown would be the UTMB – OCC (54 km 3.600 d+) but I was not chosen in the lottery but hoping for a second chance later if someone is cancelling. .

Continue ReadingArpad Farkas
Staffan Dahlgren
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

50

Where are you from?

Stockholm, Sweden

Website

https://wwwfyraochtrettio-staffan.blogspot.com/

Instagram

@dahlgrenstaffan

Strava

Staffan Dahlgren
 

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I’ve always been a runner but periodically and it wasn’t until the birth of our third child back in 2006 that I picked it up more regularly, starting to running maybe just 2-3 times a week. I really enjoyed it from the beginning and quite soon found out it fitted me perfectly AND, I was quite good at it too. From thereon I haven’t really looked back and now I’ve been running about 4-6 times per week for the past 16 years and I am well underway of completing my first lap around the globe looking at total mileage (although mileage in itself has never been a primary goal of mine).
 

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

I run for a variety of reasons. Easy running or trail running with friends for social reasons, for relaxation and and spending time outdoors but I also enjoy the variety that setting goals, train towards those goals and race occasionally gives me. Having completed a tempo run, an interval session or a long run with some faster miles in the end makes me feel very alive and I strongly feel that now, being a runner is an important part of my identity in a very positive, non-pressing way.
 

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

I have had the fortune of running very consistent mileage over the years. Of course initially I had some of the beginner struggles like shin splints and runners knee but overall I’ve only had one major injury back in 2015 when I voluntarily and with the help of the physio refrained from running for a 6-week period to heel my tender hamstring muscle tendon.

The Covid-19 pandemic has meant both an opportunity and a challenge. I work almost 100% remotely and I have to refrain from running too much/every day because remote working means a lot of hours in front of the computer. I almost suffered from over training before I decided to be quite strict about taking one or two days completely off running every week. That has provided a better balance between recovery and training for me.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

This is a long story but something I am willing to share nevertheless. I had a best friend that also was my running mate for over 10 years and we had so much in common inside and outside of running and we were very close. He suffered from a lot of pressure and anxiety and had a history of depression from his teenage years and unfortunately due to several different circumstances he committed suicide in march of 2018, leaving behind a wife and two children. Although my loss was nothing as compared to his family’s, this was still a major quite devastating experience for me but running has helped me heal. We often went trail running together and I think of my friend David still often when I do that and I ask myself if he would have wanted me to quit running which of course he wouldnt. That year back in 2018 running for me was therapeutic and I completely put aside the competetive aspects of running that I normally enjoy, because at the time it just wasn’t important to me.

What is your “why?”

It motivates me to try to keep a certain level still. My days of new PR’s are perhaps behind me, most of my PR’s are from 2014 so they are eight years old by now but still I am not that far away from them and I like it to stay that way for as long as I can.

I guess my why is that running adds very positively to my life, makes me feel more alive and I enjoy the fact that I’m healthy and in a very good shape and a way better runner at the age of 50 as compared to when I was in my 30’s. I run both for the relaxation and spending time outdoors and for the challenge and the fun of competing against myself in races every now and then.

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

My Garmin watch is perhaps not a favourite gear but it’s an everyday companion also on every run. Shoe wise I’m a Nike guy. They fit very nicely on my feet and I really enjoy the ZoomX cushioning of their racing line of shoes. Everyone deserves to experience the feeling of running fast in a pair of Nike Vaporflyes. They are so much better than all the other competing brands of new “super shoes”.

Do you have a favorite race or event?

I ran the New York City Marathon back in 2015 and that was really special! I plan and hope to be able to go to the US and experience both the Boston and the Chicago Marathons going forward and I typically achieve BQ/qualification standards with a good margin whenever I have ran a marathon. So far I have ran 11 marathons and my home town marathon in Stockholm Sweden in May/June and the Stockholm Half Marathon in September are both big favorites of mine, very well organized and with lovely courses along the water line of Stockholm. The finish of the Stockholm Marathon is inside the Stockholm Stadion which is really beautiful and also historical since it hosted the 1912 summer olympic games. That’s quite something.
 

What’s next?

My major goal the spring of 2022 is to run the Stockholm Marathon for the 9th time. I haven’t ran a marathon since 2019 due to the Covid pandemic. My PR in the marathon is 2:50:43 (the enclosed picture is from that finish) and last time I ran it I ran 2:53:52. Last year 15 men in my age group men 50-55 managed to run faster than three hours and I want to be one of them on the 4th of June in Stockholm. That really motivates me!
 

Any fun facts about yourself?

I have four kids, two cats and a dog (that I hope will want to join me running once he’s old enough) and also owns half a horse (my daughter owns the other half) 🙂
 

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Be a “student” of the sport, try to read and learn, don’t be afraid that you’re “slow” and inexperienced. Take advantage of running with others, runners are social types of people that like to hang out and my experience is that there very seldom is any prestigue and that newbies are always very welcomed. Be patient focussing on creating a habit. Don’t run the same route and the same pace all the time that is boring! The key to enjoy it is variety both when in comes to routes, surfaces and paces. You’ll see dramatic improvements quite soon as a beginner so just be patient and trust the process and try not to overdo it running too hard, which often leads to injury and loss of consistency.
 
Continue ReadingStaffan Dahlgren
Anita Bullen
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

52

Where do you live?

Cromer, North Norfolk United Kingdom

Instagram

@Gresham1996

Strava

Anita Bullen

What is your history with sports and athletics?

At age 47, I wanted to get fit & lose weight so I joined local slimming club. A couple of friends I made suggested doing sports relief as a group so we joined a beginners running group at a local club.

I started slowly and could only run a lap of a tennis court but by the end of  the12 week course we were running 5k and went on to complete our 10k! I loved it and started to do park runs every Saturday and also became a full member of my local run club.

Regular training I was loving and our coach said I should train for a marathon. I didn’t believe I could because I spent  such a short time running and thought only athletes could do this!

I started doing more 10k races, then half marathons then I was lucky to get into London Marathon for PHAB charity which meant a lot as I have an autistic son! Less than a year after I started running I was standing on the start line of The London Marathon 2017, which was something I had only watched on tv. I was nervous but had worked hard with lots of support and completed it in 4hrs 33 mins which I was so happy with! I also raised £3,800 for the charity!

After this I signed up for more marathons and then got into trail running. I absolutely loved this the freedom, nature & exploring got me hooked. I started doing trail marathons and then in 2018 done my first ultra marathon 32 miles it was hard and I learnt a lot from it and what I could do better. So in January 2019 I ran my 2nd ultra 48 miles which again was tough in the pouring rain and dark but loved the people and the event and completed it in 11 hrs.

My love for trails and challenging myself grew and I signed up for Endure24 a 24hr trail race completing as many laps as you can! I didn’t have a total in mind just wanted to see what I could achieve & went on to complete 65 miles with 50 mins sleep!! This is my biggest distance to date!!

Now 2022 I’m going to be 53 I’ve completed more ultras and this year I’m doing Endure24 again hoping to complete 100 miles!!

I love sharing my runs on social media showing the beautiful trails where I live but also encouraging other runners and giving advice and support where I can.

Running is a way of clearing my thoughts and resetting as life with an autistic child is tough I am also a teaching assistant in a special needs school.

Looking forward to many more years running and more challenges & adventures.

I was also offered a place to run with Dame Kelly Holmes on her charity group in Malawi unfortunately I injured myself a month before flying out!!

What do you enjoy the most about being an athlete?

The people I have met and friends I have made, as well as helping other people start running. Most of my friends now have been made through running and run clubs. Definitely helps my mental health clears my thoughts and helps me cope! Proudest achievement winning most improved runner and 1st place in club beach race! Also London Marathon my first ever marathon!

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

Had a torn calf muscle which took me a while to recover from. 

A bad experience from a previous work place which affected my health.

My son being autistic and needing routine and fitting training in around family life.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

A really bad time where I had trouble in a work place where I was bullied and ended up making myself so ill that I was admitted to the hospital. Running helped me come back and cope.

What is your “why?”

Challenging myself seeing what I can achieve believing if I don’t try I won’t know!
Not letting my age stop me!
Discovering new trails & meeting more running friends!

What’s next?

My first 100 mile event
To run abroad in a event

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

Love Salomon trainers because they suit my style running comfortable.
Also love Harrier UK, which is a great racing kit made by runners.

Do you have a favorite race or event?

Endure24 Reading
Darkside events Norfolk

Any fun facts about yourself?

I’m also a chef.
I love music and live music gigs. 

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

You’re never too old to start don’t look at everyone else and think I’m too slow I can’t do that!
Believe achieve.
Do it for yourself if it’s 5k,10k or more it’s personal achievement!

Any other comments or stories you’d like to share?

I wish I had found my love for running earlier in life.
At school I hated sport and running and my PE teachers were never encouraging!
I always thinking I’m not a runner I don’t look like a runner!!

Continue ReadingAnita Bullen
Read more about the article Sallie Arellano
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

48

Where do you live?

San Ramon, California

Instagram

@thtgirl

Strava

Sallie Arellano

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I played tennis throughout high school. I always enjoyed hiking and going to the gym, but I got into trail running 10 years ago. My dog who was 4 at the time had lots of energy so I took him out for a walk one time, and we ended up running. That was the start of my running journey. 

I continued to run 5K’s and 10K’s until I jumped to the half marathon about a year and a half into running. and then the next year I made the jump to ultra running. I found the love of the trails to be much more rewarding and peaceful.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

I find that ultra running has taught me to slow down and pace myself. I am always go go go, so I need the endurance to continue for long periods of time. I enjoy the mental break it gives me in my busy life as well.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

With running there is always a chance of injury or set backs. I do suffer from IT band issues and PF issues from time to time. I reset, and start to do more stretching and strength but I am not a fast runner either so I’m always against the clock when it comes to making sure I make cut offs. 

I am fortunate that my family is supportive of my running and knows that it is a part of me. Training for long distance is hard because it is very time consuming but it is a passion of mine so I do what I can to make sure I train for the races I am registered for.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

I’ve been lucky enough to not have anything major, but I know that when I’ve been injured, I have been sad and depressed without running, so I know that it is my go to to make myself feel better.

What is your “why?”

To prove to myself I am strong… that I can do hard things… that if I give it my best, I can see results…. may not happen every time as every run is different, but to challenge myself to get it done and say I did.

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

I love all my inkburn clothes. They have lots of personality like me, so I love wearing their clothes when I am out running and at a race. They are bright, vibrant and unique and remind me that every race is different, every person is different and its okay to be you.

Do you have a favorite race or event?

Diablo Trails Challenge by Brazen Racing will always have a huge place in my heart. It was my first ever 5K, it was my first trail race and it showed me how great the trail running community can be. They are supportive, cheer every runner on regardless of pace and have the best food!!

What’s next?

I have attempted the 100K distance 3 times and have failed at mile 50 almost every time….. I would like to still try and achieve it, but for now I am working on running 100 half marathons where right now I sit at number 47. But if a 100K falls in line, I will be tempted to try again.

Any fun facts about yourself?

I have run all 160 miles of Mount Diablo. I am only one of a handful of others who have completed it. My friend Andrea suggested we do it. It took 88 hours over 6 months, we got 65K in elevation gain and it took us 260+ miles covering all 160. We both are now volunteers for Mount Diablo and help with the back county patrol while we are out on the trails.

Do you have advice for someone interested in getting started?

Go for it. And don’t believe we don’t walk…. walking/hiking is a huge part of running.

Continue ReadingSallie Arellano
Annette Schulz
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

60

Where do you live?

Reno, Nevada, USA

Strava Username

Annette Schulz

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I ran cross country in high school then stopped running for a long time. I started running again at age 49 and ran my first marathon at age 50. A year later I ran my first 50k and a lot of races in between I am now training for my first 100 miler in May!

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

I love running on trails and being out in nature. I have made a lot of runner friends and have seen some amazing places. I also love to volunteer and help encourage other runners to accomplish their goals no matter if they are front, middle or like me a back of the packer.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

As I get older it takes longer to recover but no real obstacles other than mental challenges to accomplish my goals.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

Other than people thinking I am crazy for going for such big running goals at my age…nothing I can think of.

What is your “why?”

My why is running for others who can’t. I have a friend who died of cancer and I carried his ashes at a race so he could accomplish his goal of finishing an ultra. We didn’t finish that race but made it an ultra distance anyway. I run my 100 in May in his honor and hope to finish for both of us!

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

I finally found the perfect pack in my Nathan pinnacle and the perfect shoe in my Altra lone peaks. With both of those I can do anything!

Do you have a favorite race or event?

So far my favorite race is Valley of fire 50 mile race in Vegas by Triple Dare Running Company! Excellent race by an amazing race company.

What’s next?

My goal first is to finish my 100 in May and a retry at two 50 milers, one I didn’t finish yet and one I did but want a better time. Next year the goal is to run the Tahoe 200! I captain an aid station for them and I just want to see if I can!

Any fun facts about yourself?

I am a pup mom to two beautiful dogs and they help me stay motivated! I have seen a lot of sunrises because they love to go out super early!

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

If you think you can’t, you are wrong! It doesn’t matter if you are young or older because it’s never too late to start! Runners come in all shapes and sizes and you are perfect just the way you are!

Lastly it also doesn’t matter if you are fast or not either! Someone has to be last and if that’s you, you are still doing better than someone sitting on the couch!

Any other comments or stories you’d like to share?

I think it’s important to give back to the running community and I volunteer and encourage others to as well! You never know when a kind word or some tough love can be the difference between someone finishing their race or not.

Continue ReadingAnnette Schulz
Julie Adams
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

46

Where do you live?

Mckinney, TX USA

Instagram

@coachjulieadams

Strava

Julie Perez Adams

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I grew up a gymnast from age 4 & did competitive gymnastics until age 15, leaving the sport towards the end of my sophomore year in HS. Then I cheered my last 2 years of HS and continued cheering 4 years in college for the University of North Texas on their Co-Ed squad. I was on the national competition squad for 2 years where we placed 3rd as a 1st-year division 1 school & then 2nd in prelims my last year. 

I took up triathlon when I quit my corporate job after having 2 girls & at the age of 40 completed my 1st triathlon. My husband got me into this crazy sport & I fell in love! I have completed 3 full Ironman’s (Louisville, KY, Boulder, CO & Cozumel) plus numerous half Ironman’s.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

It’s a great way to stay in shape, connect me & my husband & be part of a community. Plus I can eat ALLLLLL the food which as you get older is much harder to do 😂.    😂.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

COVID was a big setback. I didn’t get to race & have found getting my motivation back is harder than I expected. Life got full of other distractions as we enter another phase of life with kids sports but I’m still making time for some training & think my 2022 focus will be 70.3 distances.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

Yes!! After quitting my corporate job it was very hard to find my place. I’ve worked since age 15 & didn’t really know what to do with myself, where did I fit in, who are my people, etc. I am very much a people person & I needed a tribe. I found my  friends in triathlon. They are all so welcoming, encouraging & accepting!!

What is your “why?”

Growing up as a gymnast I struggled with eating disorders & body images. I’ve finally found a type of exercise that focuses on “strong & healthy” vs what your body looks like. It’s all about what it can do & loving that it can take you to new levels if you fuel it properly!!

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

I’d have to say my wahoo kickr & Roku remote with the headphone jack😂😂. I can get on the bike, get in a great workout while zoning out to some of my fav shows & just have some me time!

Do you have a favorite race or event?

IM Cozumel is hard to beat, the swim was AMAZING, seeing all the fish!! IM Galveston 70.3 is great because it’s a team race for us & racing with teammates is so much fun!!

What’s next?

I think I’m going to give IM Lubbock 70.3 a try next year. My husband & I have done galveston for the past 5 years but my daughter has a cheer competition that weekend so it’s time we make a change!

Any fun facts about yourself?

As much as I’ve competed in life & in racing I don’t think I’m a very competitive person – maybe at least not compared to some of my teammates. I think as I get older I realize I’m just in this all for fun!!

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Don’t let fear stop you – EVER!! The body is an amazing thing & can do so much more than you think possible. The people in this sport all have a story, I feel like we all know life is hard & most of them will help you reach any goals you have – “anything is possible”!!!

Continue ReadingJulie Adams
Kelly Grady
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

50

Where are you from?

Milwaukee, WI USA

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I was a high school athlete that discovered running/triathlon 20 years ago. I started running as part of a weight loss program. My cousin asked me to run a local 5k and I was hooked.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

I have gained so much from being involved with triathlon. I have made a ton of wonderful friends. I’m a 50 yr old woman who likes her body. Not just because my jeans fit (which is awesome) but I can do anything I want (within reason of course. Still can’t jump over a building. :-)). I know that I can handle anything as long as I can use exercise to help me.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

There have been so many obstacles. For years, I was a single mom with little kids and a full-time job. So I trained at 5 am on a treadmill in my basement and a baby monitor in the kid’s room. When they got older, I’d bike/run to baseball games.

When I trained for my first Ironman, my hashtag was #noexcuses. I found creative ways to train and parent.

18 months ago, I herniated 2 discs in my back. My doctor told me I’d have to give up long-distance events. Instead, I went to Physical Therapy and never skipped my exercises. Then I hired a personal trainer to further strengthen my back/core. This September, I finished my second Ironman and I did it 31 minutes faster than my last one. #noexcuses. Just hard work.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

I went through a very difficult and drawn-out divorce. I never would have made it through without exercise and my triathlon club.

What is your “why?”

My “why” is multiple reasons. Because I want to keep feeling good (inside and out). Because my daughter is watching and she sees that fit/strong/healthy is more important than superficial beauty. Because both my kids see that hard work pays off. Set a goal and work for it.

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

My support system!!! No way I would have finished 2 Ironman and 4 marathons without my support team and training partners.

Do you have a favorite race or event?

Ironman Wisconsin is amazing. Great venue and awesome community

Door County (Wisconsin) half Ironman is beautiful!!

What’s next?

The athletic bucket list includes:

-marathon swim (10K open water swim
-ultramarathon
-make it to age group nationals in triathlon

Any fun facts about yourself?

I was convinced to do my first triathlon because I attempted to run a half marathon and I hated it!! So I thought triathlon would be easier….turns out running longer distance is easier when you know what you’re doing (like having a nutrition plan and the right shoes….newbie mistakes)

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Just start and be consistent. If you want to do races/events, join the local triathlon/running/swimming club. The friendships are great and they will teach you things and help you succeed.

You’re not “too fat”, “too slow”, “too old” to join the club. Go, meet the other slow/fat/old people in the group, you’ll be glad you did

Any other comments or stories you’d like to share?

We are all busy. You have to make exercise a priority. Every night, before I go to bed, I know exactly when, where and what exercise I will be doing the next day. I set the clothes out, I know the route I’m taking, etc. That way I have #noexcuses

Continue ReadingKelly Grady
Sally Pymer
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

49

Where do you live?

Australia

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I took up competitive swimming at age 9 and competed until 17. After having children I took up swimming again as something I could do for myself. In doing this I was asked to compete in a team triathlon doing the swim. I was in total awe of those able to run 7kms and decided I wanted to do a triathlon myself. From there I took up running and cycling, competed in triathlons, and soon after marathons. I had a 12-year break when I worked in the fitness industry and then took up ultramarathons as a new challenge when I changed jobs.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

The feeling of freedom when outside. The challenge of training, competing and getting out of my comfort zone. The sense of achievement when finishing something you never thought possible. The mental health benefits are amazing too. I love exercising in the morning with the endorphins flowing while the sun rises.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

I have chronic lung disease which constantly makes me tired. I can exercise over a long distance but not fast. Hills also kill me because of my reduced lung capacity. My husband is also a farmer so when the kids were young I had to fit in exercise whenever I could over the 24 hour period or have creative ways of exercising and caregiving.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

I have suffered from anxiety and depression for most of my life. Exercise has and continues to help me every day. Being married to a farmer has meant most things have revolved around the farm including the work I do, hours I work, where and when I holiday. Exercise has been one thing I can control for myself.

What is your “why?”

The mental health benefits, the love of nature, the feeling of achievement, and the endorphin release.

What is your favorite gear or running equipment?

My running shoes. You can usually run anywhere at any time in some amazing locations.

Do you have a favorite race or event?

Comrades Marathon. It is not called the ultimate human race for anything! The support of fellow runners and spectators is nothing short of amazing. There is a sense of camaraderie in not competing against others and only against the clock. Each athlete has the same goal of simply crossing the finish line.

What’s next?

 To get back to exercising without the pressure of racing. To enjoy exercise and be able to decide what I want to do each morning whether it be run, mountain bike, swim, or walk

Any fun facts about yourself?

As a teenage swimmer, I used to hide behind the bushes when doing running as part of training. I hated it. Hard to believe years later I took up ultramarathons. I was also told as a teenager I would never be good at sports because I didn’t try to win all of the time. I was an encourager, not a competitor!

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Just do it for yourself and do what you enjoy. Don’t care what anyone else tells you. There’s no such thing as a loser but someone with the slowest winning time!

Any other comments or stories you’d like to share?

The ultramarathon community is the most amazing supportive community. Most encourage and want you to succeed as much as you do yourself.

Continue ReadingSally Pymer
Cailin Weidenmiller
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

44

Where do you live?

Naples, FL

What do you do?

SAHM (former teacher for 15 years)

Instagram

@cailinew

Strava

Cailin Weidenmiller

What is your history with sports and athletics?

Childhood athlete….I did everything I could – soccer, basketball, tennis, swimming, etc. but I quit it all to swim year-round when I was 13. Swimming was my everything in high school- I made states All four years and my relay team won states and broke the state record in PA. Went on to swim at a smaller D1 school for college. Quit swimming junior year after total burnout. My hugest regret…as I was mentally unprepared for life outside of swimming.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

I love so many things…I love to challenge my body physically and mentally. I love the hard work, sweat, and endorphins. I love the camaraderie of my friends and teammates. I love having goals. I love what the journey toward a goal brings and even the daily grind.

Have you experienced any obstacles or challenges?

I would say two big ones for me were as follows….when I quit swimming in college I suffered mentally immensely. I struggled to figure out who I was outside of swimming. Swimming kept me disciplined and motivated. When I stopped I was anxious and depressed. I didn’t know what to do with time, where to seek an outlet etc. it was several years of this. Then, I discovered running!

More recently I was T-boned by a car while cycling (September of 2020). While it was my first accident on the bike, it was the first one that was out of my control and caused severe PTSD on the bike. Physically my injuries healed much faster than my mental injury. I had always prided myself on being fearless (or as my teammates say “tough as nails”) but suddenly I was having a panic on the bike. It was delayed panic. I made it through my race less than 8 weeks after the accident and qualified for World Championship 70.3. I think just kinda bummed myself. But after that I had a full year of just hating the bike, panicking, etc. I would have full panic attacks- which is not a safe way to ride. I worked with a sports psychologist to pray for Worlds. And while worlds were the slowest most pathetic of my cycling (never mind the elevation we had to climb that I could not train for in Florida- I was freaked out about that!!! And never mind the insane wind, hail, and lightning storm that happened while on the bike!!!!). It was such a proud moment to finish that race!

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

Mostly, this participation keeps me mentally healthy…..I took up triathlon after my third child was born (a few years after) and it gave me a purpose and a goal when I was feeling I needed something outside of my kids. It keeps me mentally on track and makes me a better mom, wife, and friend.

What is your “why?”

What drives me is feeling like we only get one chance to do things we love…what also drives me is. Sign a role model for my girls. They are all athletes and I think showing them hard work, facing challenges, and having fun with sports, has been great for them. They are very proud. They also have completed triathlons. My 12 year old recently did a full USA tri as the youngest competitor. It’s been fun to see them love their own sports (swim, track, soccer, etc). The daily endorphins also keep me going!

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

I hate equipment. This is funny since this sport requires so much of it.
I have been a huge fan of HOKA shoes for years, but more recently started trying out the Saucony endorphin line.
I love my Roka wetsuits. I have fun with my paddles and fins while swimming.
My bike is a Trek speed concept- courtesy of being hit by a car and totaling my old bike.

Do you have a favorite race or venue?

My favorite race has been Augusta 70.3. It was my first half Ironman and a couple of years later my fastest.
My most unforgettable race was World Championships in St. George Utah. So challenging, so fun having my entire family there.

What’s next?

Good question. I am enjoying doing what I want right now- which means a lot of running – and lifting. I am doing a few run races before I figure out my 2022 season. I don’t mind changing it up here and there to prevent total burnout from triathlon. I love running and love being in the weight room….until I get antsy for another goal!

Any fun facts about yourself?

I am a mom of three awesome girls!
I have lived in a lot of fun cities (Boston, Paris, DC!) before settling in Florida.

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Don’t be intimidated. Start slow and don’t worry about anyone else but whatever you set out to do. I started to run races not even knowing about times. When I started triathlon I had the worst gear and was all heart. It worked for me. Celebrate small victories and goals.

Any other comments or stories you’d like to share?

It’s never too late to start something new!!!!! You don’t have to be competitive to be an athlete.

Continue ReadingCailin Weidenmiller
Read more about the article Rebecca White
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

41

Where do you live?

Rochester, NY

Instagram

@whitegurlbecks

Strava

Rebecca White

What is your history with sports and athletics?

My parents put me in the team leagues like softball and soccer as a kid but I was never great at any sports and did not play in school. Both my parents grew up on farms, though my childhood was not on a farm we spent part of every summer bailing hay at my dad’s childhood home, gardening and various other outdoor activities. I always loved outdoor activities but did not get into running until I was in my mid 30s. I was a bit lost in life needing some direction and a way to kill time I fell into a group bootcamp class through a friend called Team Fit. The group was running a local 5k and I decided to sign up. At 34 I ran my first 5k and never really looked back, I was now a runner. Shortly after that I found Spartan race and began travelling the country to race, eventually I signed up for an ultra and fell in love with the longer events. I have done multiple 24 hour races (some obstacle, some just running) even in different countries, I am a huge fan of destination races and can’t wait for the next one. This year I completed my first 100 mile race, a few years ago the thought of that seemed crazy and here we are signing up for another one.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

My favorite part of this journey has been the friends I have made through it, the community is absolutely amazing. I am no stranger to going alone, but there is truth in the saying “If you want to go fast go alone, if you want to go far go together”. I have been motivated and encouraged daily by the people around me. There is also something insanely meditative about the act of running, especially for hours on end in an ultra! And I absolutely miss it when I am not able to do it.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

I consider myself pretty lucky, though this is a hobby for me I do put a lot of time into it. With anything you devote time to and feel passionate about it definitely takes a toll on you when you cannot train like you want. I have only had minor injuries, if I have to travel for work I make the best of the surroundings and just try to stay active.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

I definitely believe that fitness changed my life. There was a time in my late twenties that I went through a deep depression and personal struggles. A long term relationship ending badly and I used alcohol in excess to cope with my feelings, ended up in legal trouble and court ordered outpatient rehab. In the beginning I just needed to keep busy but my addictive personality fell in love with exercise and the endorphins and everything changed for me once I changed my direction.

What is your “why?”

I started doing this because I needed to “busy idle hands” but then I fell in love with the running and seeing how far I can push my body. Now I just want to inspire people and show them that anyone can do it if they put their mind to it.

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

I have a Nordic Track incline training which is great for when I cannot get outside, my other highly used tool is a tire drag setup I have.

Do you have a favorite race or event?

Spartan race lit a fire in my soul so I will always have a soft spot for this race. Though I have gravitated to the ultra distance and really love the 24 hour format, I think the best answer is just any Spartan Race.

What’s next?

My next bucket list race is Western States. In the mean time I will continue my ultra journey and travel as much as possible, I will hit up as many spartan ultra venues as I can and the 24 hour WC is back on my list this year.

Any fun facts about yourself?

I mentioned my dad grew up on a farm well one of the calves was born with 2 heads! The poor thing died shortly after birth but they stuffed the head and I still have it hanging on my wall. Its definitely a hit at Halloween parties.

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

The saying “How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time” is something I tell myself all the time especially in the ultra world you have to break the races down into chunks. I think this is true in anything, sometimes looking at the big picture is too scary but you will never get there if you don’t take the first step. Just keep moving one step at a time, I often count to 10 over and over and over in races to get through rough spots.

Any other comments or stories you’d like to share?

Running is rarely glamorous but if you set a goal and keep working at it, no matter what the outcome is, it’s definitely worth it.

Continue ReadingRebecca White
Brock Gibbs
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

53

Where do you live?

Montreal, Canada

Website

www.thehacktriathlonblog.ca

Instagram

@gibbs.brock

Strava

Brock Gibbs

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I have always played sports at a high level, but got into triathlon around the age of 40 because I wanted to race bikes (this was the only way I knew of).

What do you enjoy the most about being an athlete?

Being an athlete is the truest way, outside of my writing, that I can express myself fully. It offers a level of freedom I haven’t found anywhere else.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

I have been injured so many times that it is hard to count. I am presently recovering from a crash at the ironman 70.3 world championship where I broke my collarbone, several ribs and my pelvis in two places. This is frustrating because so much of who I am comes in the performance of my sport.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

Without sport there is no way I would have been able to get through the day throughout much of my life. It has been a way to manage data times I have always kept just behind me.

What is your “why?”

My why is to be the best me that I can offer. Sounds cheesy but it is true. In everything I do I strive to be my best and lead by example. Being a teacher, I find this quality is an absolute necessity.

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

My gravel bike has become my absolute favourite thing.

Do you have a favorite race or event?

My favorite event was/is the triathlon alpe d’huez in the French alps. Super challenging physically and mentally. The landscape is breathtaking as are the efforts required to get to the finish line.

What’s next?

Right now I am focusing on a full recovery while working on my next book which will be a follow up to the last one (“My Coworkers Think I’m a Pro “).

Any fun facts about yourself?

I am a teacher, author and successful age group triathlete who is still afraid of the swim portion of the race.

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Just get started. It is that simple. A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. The first step will be the biggest hurdle you will face.

Any other comments or stories you’d like to share?

Please read my book. In it you will find a hilarious peek I side the ups and downs that every age group amateur athlete faces.

Continue ReadingBrock Gibbs
Dusty Mitchell
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

42

Where do you live?

Atlanta USA

Website

dustymitchell.com

teamjesusathletics.com

Instagram

@sirdusty

Strava

Sir Dusty/Team Jesus

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I’ve appreciated sports my whole life. I’ve always been inspired and fascinated by the athleticism put on display in skilled sports like football and basketball, tennis and baseball. I was first introduced to playing football when I was about nine years old. I had no idea what I was doing. Like the majority of kids that age I didn’t have the skill, strength, size or speed or football knowledge to make much of myself. I liked the idea of football, but because I lacked the insight of how to approach the sport and actually develop my abilities, there wasn’t much of a pursuit, as I got older the opportunity was no longer there for a while and my interest turned to baseball.

I followed baseball with a passionate love for the Atlanta Braves, and I got involved in youth baseball. While I loved baseball and desperately desired to be better at it, again I lacked the proper training or knowledge of that pursuit to really develop my skills in a proper way. By really practicing a developing fundamentals. The same can be said with basketball, when I fell in love with the game before and during my Jr. High years. Later in my High School football years, again there was always the heart but lacked the proper execution to really develop my skills, to really work on the things that were going to take my performance to the proper level on the field.

There has certainly been a pattern of this in my life. There has been the interest, the desire to pursue a sport or other goals in my life, but looking back, I’ve relied heavily just on a general understanding, rather than digging deeper and really being intentional about developing my skills at a very core and fundamental level. Putting in the 10,000 hours on the not so fun stuff so that I can really excel when it’s game time.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

I’ve had some time to really consider this, and while I absolutely love being active, I love simply playing, I love the outdoors,I believe for the majority of my life what I’ve liked the most is being identified as an athlete, of whatever particular sport that is, not necessarily and athlete in general, but being knowns as a football player, or basketball player, or even triathlete. I found much of my identity wrapped up in the sport, and the truth is that’s a dangerous way to think and live. We are not what we do, that puts us in a place where we associate ourself with what we’re capable of doing.

What happens when all of that gets ripped away? What happens when you lose your job and your no longer CEO, what happens when you suffer a debilitating injury which keeps you from the sport you love, the one you’ve wrapped your identity in? What we do might be an extension of who we are, our interests, our passions our talents, but it does not make us who we are, it doesn’t decide our worth or our value either. I think a lot of us put a lot of emphasis on that. 

I know that I have fallen into that trap, and it’s important that we understand that these things don’t make us, and truly, ultimately we don’t make ourselves, we were made in God’s image for His glory and our worth and value are determined through the cross, the ultimate sacrifice, the ultimate cost paid to have us see who we are, how truly valued we are, how much we’re loved and what we’re worth in the eyes of our creator.

What I’ve come to enjoy most about being an athlete is the training, the preparation, the process of being in process. Continuing to learn grow and develop and improve What I’ve come to enjoy is the mindset that it has developed in me the spiritual development, growth and understanding that occurs and how it corresponds with the physical training. I love to inspire and encourage others with what I’m learning as I grow through the process.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

Yes. Injury. What I’ve learned has been eye opening. I’m still learning. I’ve been set back for the past two seasons because of hip flexor\psoas which has led to sartorius weakness. A whole string of problems, one issue leading to another. What I’ve discovered is that it hasn’t stemmed from the hip flexors, but rather a dysfunction in my spine at the T11-12 area, leading to inactive glutes.

Triathlon has shown me where I’m broken, it’s shown me where there was a dysfunction that needed to be dealt with. It’s shown me where my weaknesses are, and my opportunities for improvement. Triathlon is like God’s Word in that way. It shows me where I’m broken, it shows me where I need improvement. It shows me where if you don’t have a proper foundation to begin with, and you’re continuing to push through with a dysfunction, you’re going to get hurt.

What Triathlon doesn’t show me is how to improve, this is where I’m still learning. Pursuing knowledge insight and instruction on how to be restored, how to develop the proper foundation, how to be healthy and whole. Thank God He has provided the answer for that for my life. That answer is Jesus. I’m still learning but I’ve got a great trainer.

I think another challenge, is the commitment. While I don’t have a wife or kids, it has presented its challenge in terms of time. In terms of really prioritizing what is important. Making what matters most, matter most. It’s easy to get caught up in pushing yourself to improve for the next event, so caught up that you can tend to slack on improving in other areas of your life. It’s like Triathlon itself, with training for three different disciplines, I’ve found that usually you end up lacking in one.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

Triathlon has taught me a lot. It’s helped to satiate my competitive nature. It’s also oddly taught me to be less competitive. It’s taught me the only competition is with myself, and that the best that I can do with it is inspire and encourage others. It’s given me a specified way to train and it’s certainly made me more intentional with training, eating, and lifestyle in general. I don’t know that it’s helped me overcome major life issues, but it’s given me a focus and intentionality with how I’m progressing and developing physically. It’s helped to develop and endurance mindset, and appreciation for the process.

What is your “why?”

Simply put, my WHY is to glorify God in all that I do. Inspire, Encourage and Uplift, learn grow and develop through it so that I can help others learn grow and develop. Putting Jesus’ name out front is a way in which I can give all the glory back to the one who put these desires in my heart to begin with. That is why my brand is Team Jesus Athletics.

My WHY is what drives my continued approach to Training, it’s about loving God and loving others. It’s that something outside of myself that drives me, it keeps me passionate and motivated because I realize what I can do through it.
I continue to see what Holy Spirit is teaching me through the process. It drives my continued success in competition where I can glorify God through my attitude, wearing the brand and competing with integrity, love and kindness, It drives me to motivate and encourage others along the way and share my WHY with them, so they know how I’m able to have success with a training routine that doesn’t fail. This is WHY I do what I do: To help others see and Find THE Better Way.

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

My bike is my favorite gear and training equipment. I love to be out on the road putting in the miles, soaking up the sun and listening to what my Father has to say.

Do you have a favorite race or event?

I like the National Championships they are a great destination event with scores of people and beautiful locations.

What’s next?

For me it’s being able to return to cycling and running. My current goal is rehab. I’d love to be able to return to the sport of Triathlon, but even if I do not, I’d love to be able to enjoy cycling with friends again, and running my neighborhood for the peace and tranquility and opportunity to connect with Holy Spirit.

Any fun facts about yourself?

I don’t want to grow up. That’s a fact.

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Yes. Know your WHY, make it greater than yourself. Start slow. Build a proper foundation. Develop the strength and stabilizer muscles you know you’ll need to put long distances and hours of motion on your body. Ask questions. Ask for Advice. Learn, Grow, Develop and use the time spent learning who you are.

Continue ReadingDusty Mitchell
Read more about the article Tim Bradley
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

60

Where do you live?

Merrick NY (NYC Metro)

What is your history with sports and athletics?

High School hockey player, track and cross country runner (captain of all three teams, leading scorer and points)

College Cross Country/Track (broke 32 minutes in 10k) and Club Hockey

HS Hockey Coach two years (Guy Herbert who became an NHL star was the goalie)

Ages 20-30, successful road racer, JPMorgan Corp Challenge winning co-Ed team, Boston Qualifier

No racing from age 31-50 due family obligations (4 children), but stayed in shape at the gym

Age ran marathon, qualified for Boston, built speed won 2017 5k for M55-59, #2 in 10k and #6 in 1500 at National Senior Games

Moved to Multisport in 2018 – 2 hour 15 minute in first Oly and won Age Group (NYC Tri)

Won the Northeast Regional in Age Group

Finished #2 in first Age Nationals in the Sprint Distance

Sidelined with broken foot in 2019, but Won Long Aquabike at the National Multi sport Championship, participated in the ITU worlds in the sprint distance (12th) and broke 2 hours 10 minutes in the Olympic distance and finished #3 overall in Key-west Tri 

Managed three races in Covid-shorted season, including a 4 hour 15 minute 1/2 IM at Challenge North America

Focus is currently on 1/2 IM and IM distance

This year won 1/2 IM Florida Age Group by over 45 minutes

Won Age Group and Masters at Fort Worth Triathlon 2 hours 9 minutes to qualify for Edmonton Works

Had a set back this summer in a bike race accident. Suffered a collapsed lung and spent two days in the hospital. Came back and placed #4 in a competitive field at National Age Groups

Won Age Group and Masters at the Chicago Triathlon

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

Staying in shape
Having something positive to focus on
Longevity potential

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

Two stress fractures (from high volume running, which pushed me to Multisport)
Broken foot
Bike accident collapsed lung
Mouth infection from Lake Michigan water

There is always something to battle through!

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life obstacles?

Generally, yes. Positive results have given me confidence.

What is your “why?”

Health for the long term as I near retiring from a 35 year career in professional services to enjoy a healthy and youthful retirement with spouse, children, grand children and friends.

What is your favorite training equipment?

Cervelo P5 disc 2020
Trek Emonda 2021

Do you have a favorite race or event?

Ironman 70.3. It’s just the right distance. 

What’s next?

Next up is 70.3 worlds in St George, UT – a huge race for me

Full IM in Portugal in October

Goals

ITU Oly qualification (done)
Oly Age Group Podium (missed, placed #4)
70.3 worlds qualification (done)
70.3 worlds podium tbd
Kona qualification. tbd

Challenges

Time to train
Volume of training
Swimming skills

Strength
Bike speed
Run speed (for age)

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Get a training plan
Train first thing in the AM
Leverage the Multisport community

Continue ReadingTim Bradley
Troy Wolf
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

55

Where do you live?

Johnson City, Kansas

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I played Football and Basketball in high school and ran cross country my senior year. I was not a talented athlete and was not very motivated. I didn’t do sports competitively until 47. 

I lost my dad at 71 to a heart attack and I was overweight and out of shape. I was assistant chief on my local volunteer fire department and had a couple calls that stressed my physical and mental health. 

I decided it was time to start doing something so I bought a road bike from Walmart and started riding to lose weight. I had a friend that had a friend that did triathlons and I thought that was very cool. Maybe I could run again. I started by running two blocks then walking one. I just kept building from there. Next was the swim part – I never had swim lessons as a kid so I went on YouTube and it was practice, practice practice. 

My first triathlon was in a 50 meter pool and after practicing in a 25 yard pool, I thought I was going to die, but I made it through the swim and bike and loved it. I was hooked from then on.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

Triathlon is an amazing sport with a lot of helpful athletes. I have made so many friends. 

I completely changed my body – instead of a 250 pound out of shape old man, I am 185 pounds of fit and have kept it that way for almost 10 years. 

My proudest time was at Milwaukee this year for age group nationals. The triathlete beside me had never done a major event and I helped him get his stuff ready and marked him – he was so appreciative and I believe that is how we keep this sport going.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

I live in a very rural community, there are only 2,100 people in 648 sq miles. I train all by myself. I work for the county doing maintenance on four buildings and I have been the Fire Chief going on 5 years now. I had to move a lot of my training to early morning 4:30 am swims, runs and weights.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

I have always been wound pretty tight, so it has helped my stress and has made me mentally stronger.

What is you “why?”

My drive is to become better and always improve. The younger guys at my first triathlon were awesome – I told my wife I want to be as good as them. She said they are 5 to 10 years younger and I said so what – I pushed myself and after a few years I was beating some of them.

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

My Specialized Shiv bike, and the training gear in the weight room I built in my garage.

Do you have a favorite race or event?

Boulder Ironman 70.3 amazing place to race. 

What’s next?

Next year I want to do Arizona 70.3 and qualify for the 70.3 World Championship.

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Enjoy it, race day is amazing. There are all types of people racing, anyone can do it, it just takes a little dedication and time. It will change you forever.

Continue ReadingTroy Wolf
Mark Stadhouders
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

52

Where do you live?

Den Haag, The Netherlands

Instagram

@mark_stadhouders

Strava

Mark Stadhouders

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I started running roughly 20 years ago. Just for fun and with no specific goal in mind. I live close to the beach so there is always a beautiful run around the corner. So running was just a way to clear the mind after a busy day at the office. 

In 2011, however, I had a severe back injury and had to battle through the pain. Decided not to do surgery but let my body do the work using personal training and slowly got back into the game. This time decided to take my personal health more seriously and pick up running again. Believing I could accomplish more than 5km or 10km, I started training for half and full marathons. 

The funny thing is, when you are a bit older, speed doesn’t matter that much but the belief that you can accomplish anything and be better every day when you try, gets stronger and stronger. It becomes a lifestyle. Improving your diet and changing your mindset a goal that makes you get up early to do your training. 

Anyway, a close colleague pushed me to register for a half Ironman and bam, a whole new lifestyle emerged. Ten years after my back injury I have completed many short, middle and one full distance Ironman triathlons, changed my diet to Keto and love inspiring other people to do the same. Next year I want to complete a full extreme triathlon! Go figure…

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

Many things. Of course training with friends, picking up something new every year, and racing in different countries and venues, but most of all the connection you can make with other people who are going through a similar journey. These connections have something in common; a life changing experience. Athletes that really go for the lifestyle, really want to make a difference in their lives. Sharing these stories make the triathlon lifestyle. 

Another benefit is my health. I do yearly checkups (full blood work) and my doctor is amazed by the progress I am making (together with a Keto lifestyle).

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

It’s a part of life. And thus part of being an age grouper athlete. Balancing work, family, friend and training can be challenging. The amount of hours you can devote for each is sometimes difficult to manage. I tend to train really early (starting 05:00) and/or late in the evening. Despite that, overtraining or injuries tend to occur. I have learned to recognize my mental and physical well-being, and now focus on a more balanced lifestyle so my family doesn’t suffer that much.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

My physical and mental well-being is now stronger than ever. More than 10 years ago I suffered severe back injuries due to too much focus on office life and an unhealthy life style. Happy to say, it is more balanced now. I love the lifestyle, the gear, the racing, and sharing my story. Already inspired many other people to start the change for themselves.

What is your “why?”

Be a strong and healthy father, partner and friend. My parents died 20 years ago due to an unhealthy lifestyle. I will be there for my kids and their kids. Show them how to make the most out of life.

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

I love gear. Hahahaha. A triathlete’s life is all about gear. Tend to spend the most on bike related stuff, but I am now setting up my own pain cave with a smith machine for strength training. It’s an expensive but rewarding sport.

Do you have a favorite race or event?

I really loved Ironman 70.3 Cascais in Portugal. In a few weeks I will do Ironman 70.3 Nice. Looking forward to a stunning climb (although I suck on the climb).

What’s next?

I always push myself to do something new. To grow as a person. In December, I will join my friend as a buddy who will do Patagonman in Chili. My challenge next year will also be a an extreme triathlon.

Any fun facts about yourself?

Not a lot of people know I am full of tattoos (yes I have the M dot as well).

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Just do it. And persevere despite the rain when you are running, the waves when you are swimming, and the wind when you are biking. Your are becoming the best version of yourself.

Any other comments or stories you’d like to share?

Changing your lifestyle is hard work, so make small steps. Take swimming lessons before diving into open water. Run short distances, etc. And grow from there.

Continue ReadingMark Stadhouders
Bastian Marrinez
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

37

Where do you live?

Phillipines

Instagram

@apohiker

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I was a varsity swimmer and soccer player from grade school through college, a BMX champion at age 18, and 100m dash sprinter in college. I started triathlon when I was 32 years old. 

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

The thrill of competing and being in pretty good shape.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

I gained some weight after medical school and had a tough time losing it until I started doing triathlons. 

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

Yes, of course. I am now stronger and I have more stamina compared to my teen years when I was play youth sports. I was always a great short distance swimmer, but now I can swim 3.8km with no problem. 

What is your “why?”

Why didn’t I start joining triathlons earlier?

Do you have a favorite race or event?

Half-ironman in Mactan, Cebu, Philippines.

What’s next?

I want to lose more weight, get back into training and wait for the pandemic to be over so I can race again.

Any fun facts about yourself?

I’m addicted to carbon fiber bike parts.

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Start small. Join a 5k run or a sprint triathlon. Just have fun, go at your own pace and learn by observing experienced competitors. Make friends, laugh and enjoy the race.

Any other comments or stories you’d like to share?

I got into triathlon because my co-worker asked me if I could join their triathlon relay team as a swimmer. She would run and her boyfriend would do the bike leg. I had never swam 1.9km straight in my entire life and I thought I was crazy to say yes. But I did. I really struggled with the waves, but I made it in 45 minutes. Afterwards I was hooked and bought a bike and started jogging. Thanks to my co-worker I am now an Ironman!

Continue ReadingBastian Marrinez
Shannon Belote
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

30

Where do you live?

Memphis, TN, USA

Instagram

@shannon_marie_belote

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I’ve been active on and off most of my life. I ran Cross Country in High School, but I did not stick with running afterwards. 

In Jan 2019, I was diagnosed with EOE (short story – food allergies that effect the esophagus in some scary ways!) April of 2019, my father was diagnosed with Esophageal Cancer. We lost him in Nov. 2019 after a very hard fought battle! 

Fast forward to March 2020 and we are under the COVID Pandemic lockdown. I had two small children (5 and 2 at the time), my husband, and myself all at home with no where to go!! I was trying to work full time from home, homeschool virtually with my kindergartner, and meet the demands of everyone at a time that I was already in a very dark place mentally. I needed an escape! I needed time that was just for me, where I would go without having all of the responsibilities on my shoulders for just a short time. 

On May 5th, I ran for the first time in years! I couldn’t even run half a mile without having to walk! It was hard physically, but mentally it was the most refreshing thing I had experienced in a very long time. So I kept doing it! Then I convinced my husband I wanted a road bike; that was my mothers day gift! 

Soon after, I signed up for my first triathlon, a sprint distance. I completed it in Aug. of 2020 and was HOOKED!! The more research I did drove me to want to compete in an Ironman branded race… so I signed up for one because I needed a goal to look forward to! 

June 27th, 2021 I FINISHED my first half ironman, Lubbock 70.3 in 7 hrs and 22 min.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

The community of triathletes is amazing! They are so encouraging! I also really enjoy getting to inspire people that think they can’t because if I can go from not being able to run a half of a mile to completing a half Ironman in a years time… then truly anything is possible if you work for it! I’ve had so many people tell me they have started running or exercising because they have been watching my journey or hearing me talk about it.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

In Oct of 2020, I broke my collarbone and couldn’t train for about 6 weeks. Between that and learning how to balance a training schedule around  family and work, it was a struggle some days! But sooo worth it!!

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life obstacles?

This sport has saved my mental health! I was in an extremely dark place mentally, and honestly not doing much better physically! I lost 18lbs through training and I am in a great place mentally! This sport is a mental game! You have to have grit to push through!

What is your “why?”

My mental and physical health! Training is my escape from reality for a short time. I can be angry, happy, sad, anxious, excited. I can sort through my thoughts and come home to my family in a better place. It also keeps me in shape physically. My family health history is a lengthy list and I refuse to let my children watch me not take care of myself. The saying goes you can’t fill from an empty cup, and I am a firm believer in that! Training is my coffee and competing in races is the creamer that keeps my cup full to take care of life!

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

Favorite gear is my bike! It’s absolutely not necessary to compete, but I bought a used TT bike and I love it! Her name is “Bennie” like Benny and the Jets (my all time favorite song!) “Bennie makes them ageless”, right?!

Do you have a favorite race or event?

Since I’ve only done two races so far, I have to say half ironman, Lubbock 70.3 is my favorite! The course was amazing and the people of Lubbock were beyond supportive! The memory of crossing the finish line on Texas Tech campus will also bring tears of pure joy !!

What’s next?

I want to compete in a Half distance (70.3 miles) triathlon race every year for the rest of my life! Bucket list race is St. George 70.3 and a Full Ironman within the next 3 years.

Any fun facts about yourself?

My junior year of high school at the state cross country competition, I was so far behind the pack that I got lost and went off the trail. I finally found my way back and made it to the finish line right after the boys race started. I was the last female racer to finish! Since then I am terrified of getting lost on a course!

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Just do it! You do not have to have the latest gear! Commit to a goal, sign up for a race and work for it!! Promise, you won’t regret it!!

Continue ReadingShannon Belote
Stephanie Rodriguez
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

50

Where do you live?

Sarasota USA

Website

www.betriforus.com

Instagram

@BeTriForUs

What is your history with sports and athletics?

A runner in my young life, overweight in my late 20’s. I chose to do something about it and lost a total of 100 pounds. Got into cycling and weightlifting, then 10 years ago found triathlon. Learned to swim. Became part of a team pulling disabled athletes in races and now President of the organization called BeTriForUs. We are committed to promoting the inclusion of differently abled athletes in sporting events.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

Challenging myself, the camaraderie of racing and of course racing with my teammates.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

Diagnosed with autoimmune issues and a bad car accident, hindered my full potential, but I never stopped and wont give up.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

It has helped me be disciplined and gave me the ability to keep going, even when my physicians thought I would have to stop. It keeps me focused and helps manage the stress of life. Plus my differently abled teammates that keep me going.

What is your “why?”

I race with athletes that have disabilities that would preclude them from ever crossing the finish line on their own. I do it because everyone deserves the feeling of crossing the finish line!

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

Oakley sunglasses. They protect my sensitive eyes in the Florida sun.

Do you have a favorite race or event?

St Anthonys Triathlon and Challenge Daytona.

What’s next?

Growing the team and to finish my bucket list of a 70.3 distance triathlon.

Any fun facts about yourself?

I am normally a quiet nerd, but on race day I have been known to be as a drill Sargent!!! If you tell me I cant, I am bent on showing you I can.

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Just get started!! Find groups, events or trainers who can help you learn and stay motivated.

Continue ReadingStephanie Rodriguez
Kresimir Ivkovic
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

38

Where do you live?

Hamburg, Germany

Instagram

@croticcoach

What is your history with sports and athletics?

My sports path started in elementary school because I was a chubby kid that other kids would pick on. I changed many sports before I started rowing at the age of 14 in Zagreb, Croatia where I grew up. 

I stuck to it for about 20 years, during which time I competed nationally and internationally. At an early age it was on a competitive level, but college life got in the way of my ability to become an elite rower and I turned to amateur (Masters Rowing) programs at the age of 27. From time to time I still compete in some Masters Rowing Races.

My triathlon beginnings started in 2017. I was looking for a new challenge and my friend Jack Nunn said, “Hey why don’t you try a triathlon?”
And so I did the same year.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

If I single out one thing, I enjoy that nervous feeling just before the gun and the adrenalin rush at the start of each competition.

Of course, there is much more to it. The community in rowing and triathlon is amazing and it feels like having a second family. It also helps me with everyday life and makes me a better person altogether. During my early 30’s, I fell off the training a little bit and life got in the way, so my weight went a little out of control. I was 120+ kg (265 lbs) at that time. Knowing how to be an athlete helped get me back in shape. It was definitely one of the hardest things I ever did in 3 months.

Today, looking back it is really hard to single out my proudest accomplishment, but my 5th place finish in the single scull at Head of The Charles an iconic rowing race in Boston would definitely be one. My recent finish at Ironman70.3 Elsinore EU Championship in 4 hours 52 minutes or Ultra team win at Ragnar Trail race at Vail Lake 2015 in California.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

In everyday life to be an athlete and to be able to dedicate time to working out I need to be so thankful and grateful to my wife Angie. She puts up with all the time I spend training and racing when I am not home. Her support means a lot to me. Making her happy is also my biggest challenge.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

While working out, like on a long bike ride or run, I take time to also think a lot about the current task I have in the office or challenge that stands in front of my life.

Also, it can be a moment in silence, when my mental health needs help and I want to avoid thinking of any frustration life can throw at me. Then those moments become just silence in my head with a drive to push for more and grind harder.

What is your “why?”

There is a fire within me that burns to strive to be better, faster, to go further, and do a tougher challenge. I feel that I am a very competitive personality and putting a challenge in front of me will make me go for it.

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

My favorite training equipment would be a single scull rowing boat. That feeling while rowing on the surface of the water is amazing and it brings so much peace and joy to me.

Do you have a favorite race or event?

One of my favorite triathlon races is St. George 70.3, which is amazing and stunning from start to finish. For rowing events, I would say Head of The Charles in Boston because it’s a beautiful city and the scenery around the rowing course is breathtaking. It also has a long term tradition and amazing fans that is rare in the sport of rowing. 

What’s next?

My next challenge is Ironman Austria in Klagenfurt this September. My goal is to complete the race without any walking and while doing that try to race to the best of my abilities.

A long-term goal would be to try and get a slot for Ironman Kona in the next 6-8 years.

Any fun facts about yourself?

When I first heard about Ironman and what it entails that one person needs to do I said, “I would never do it, these people are crazy!” Today about 10 years later I am that crazy person…

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Don’t let anyone tell you that you cant do it. We all had our starting point where our journey began. From there it’s only important to never give up!

Any other comments or stories you’d like to share?

We should never forget that the most important is to enjoy the moment we have and to have fun. We only live through each moment once.

Continue ReadingKresimir Ivkovic
Sarah Charlton
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

29

Where do you live?

Zanesville, OH, USA

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I did not grow up athletic. I started running as an adult to help manage stress. Then I fell in love with running and started pushing myself for more mileage. Now I have competed in run events, triathlon events, and a 24 hour ultra running event.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

I have met some amazing people who have become close friends. My stress level is healthier and better managed. I have learned my needs when my mental health is not balanced. Picking a proudest moment is hard! Setting new personal bests are always proud moments. Finishing and actually placing in my age group at my first ever triathlon was probably a most memorable and proudest moment.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

I have struggled with proper training and nutrition. The biggest struggle would probably be breaking my toe just two months out from my first ever triathlon.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

I went through a divorce and maintained sanity due to running and training. Being able to set and achieve fitness goals helped me to improve my mental health and self esteem during my divorce. Now fitness helps me to maintain a healthy balance in my personal and professional lives. I practice as a music therapist and being able to practice what I preach is a key factor to being successful.

What is your “why?”

To prove I can. Every further mile ran and biked, every lake conquered in a swim help to remind me that I am able and enough.

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

Training and competition partners. There is no better equipment or gear than a good friend.

Do you have a favorite race or event?

Sam’s Fans 5K run that supports music and art therapy programs.

What’s next?

Long term goal is to run my first marathon

Short term goal is to continue building mileage and strength.

Any fun facts about yourself?

I am a music therapist and currently studying clinical mental health and counseling.

I have two huskies and they join me as often as possible when it comes to running virtual or live events and training time.

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Take it slow and be patient. Speed and mileage comes with time!

Any other comments or stories you’d like to share?

I enjoy encouraging the people I run with to achieve new personal best times and mileage distances as well. Being able to share in accomplishment makes it all worth while.

Continue ReadingSarah Charlton
Matt Schorer
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

45

Where do live?

Holland Patent

Instagram

@fatguytotriguy

Website

Fat Guy to Ironman Kona 

What is your history with sports and athletics?

As a kid I was on a swim team, wrestler, loved to ride bikes, I really liked running also. After high school sports was non existent in my life until I had to do something about my 350lb life.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

I never really considered myself an athlete until recently. I mainly enjoy the freedom it gives me to be active with my family. I enjoy the people I meet and I enjoy trying to be a positive influence to others. I always thought it was “too late.” I was dead wrong!

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

My biggest challenge was that I weighed in at 350lbs. It was not until after I lost about 30lbs through a 6 week CrossFit challenge that I discovered I was depressed, addicted to food, and really just unhappy. I remember my first run was 25 to 50 feet and I was in lots of pain. My first CrossFit class I got on the floor and could almost not get up.

Has your participated helped you overcome any major life issues?

I overcame depression and was extremely lucky in that I did it on my own. I was unhappy and always had bad thoughts about myself. I honestly don’t think I was to far from being dead.

What is your “why?

My why is easy, it’s my family! I have a lot of “whys” but none of them trump my family. My wife supports me in all my crazy ideas and I try to be an example to my Daughter Alexis 17, sons Colbie 11, Benjamin 5.

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

This is easily my bike. I have a Trek Madone and it’s actually my 3rd. I simply love bikes!

Do you have a favorite race or event?

My A race is Cazenovia sprint triathlon. It was my first ever at 315lbs and I will do it every year that I am able to. I really love Ironman Lake Placid also. I completed my first Ironman in 2019 at 286lbs “Anything is possible”. As long as I am racing with people I have met or will meet I am happy.

What’s next?

So coming up in a week is Ironman Lake Placid full. I have Maine 70.3 relay bike end of August, ADKrazy September this is a 5k, 10k, 13.1, 50k, and then a 32 mile gravel grinder.

Any fun facts about yourself?

I love to talk while I am racing. I also love to smile while I am racing and usually tear up once during every race thinking of my older brother.

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

You have to commit to a goal! There is no goal too big or too small just go out and start working towards that goal. Hills make you stronger and couches kill. It’s never too late and you can start day one everyday if you have to.

Any other comments or stories you’d like to share?

I love endurance sports, the people, the atmosphere, and the support!

Continue ReadingMatt Schorer
Corey Harrington
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

41

Where do you live?

Snohomish, WA

Website

coreyharringtonanew.com

Instagram

@coreyharrintonanew

What is your history with sports and athletics?

Sports have been a part of my life since I was very young. I grew up in Lincoln, Ne and some of my first and fondest memories are from the teams I played on. As I grew up I excelled in baseball while also playing football and basketball in high school. I went on to accept a scholarship to pitch at the University of Kansas and after a shoulder injury requiring 2 surgeries after my Freshman season I left KU and walked on at New Mexico State University. I was drafted as a shortstop by the Seattle Mariners in 2002 and played in the minor leagues for a handful of years.

In 2020 I completed my first IRONMAN. (I will connect the dots below) This race and crossing the finish line was the culmination of a struggle and story that was 10+ yrs in the making. It was the process of becoming an IRONMAN that has changed my life, my belief of what is possible, my relationships, my ability to keep promises to myself, sharing my authentic self and the rejuvenation of my self confidence.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

The thing I enjoy most about being an athlete is that by pushing the limits of my body physically I am breaking down limiting beliefs of what I thought I was capable of. By continually pushing my body I am making space and opportunity to change what I believe I can achieve. My body is designed to do amazing things but my mind is the thing that holds it back. If I can prove to my brain that I can keep breaking through these restraints I have put in place then I can take the governor off of what I thought I was capable of in other parts of my life as well. It is all connected. I race not against anyone else but instead I race as reminder that I can keep promises to myself on a daily basis and by doing this I can do anything.

I also love that my kids see my wife and I doing hard things and that those hard things are fun and rewarding.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

During the last season of my professional baseball career (2007) I dislocated my shoulder. After the game I was in pain and a teammate offered me a pill. That pill numbed the physical and more importantly the emotional pain. And that is when opioids found me. All it took was one pill. I was struggling with how to deal with the end of my dream and putting something in the rear view mirror that had been the focus of my life. Being a baseball player was the thing I found my value/identity in. I had no idea how to process these emotions and it was not something I was prepared for. That one pill grew slowly and silently into something that I could have never imagined. I struggled in silence for a decade as my opioid abuse morphed from a couple pills a week as a coping mechanism for feelings I was ill equipped to handle into something that I couldn’t control. A series of unfortunate events that followed that initial shoulder injury (kidney stones, herniated disc in my back, etc..) would act as the catalyst for something that would come close stealing my life. Too ashamed to ask for help, too prideful to share my secret, it began destroying me from the inside. It took over my inner dialogue, my self confidence, my belief in myself and what my life could be.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life obstacles?

The decision to do IM came at a time in my life when I was needing to prove to myself that I could be accountable to myself. It stemmed from the belief that if I could overcome opioids there was nothing I couldn’t do. So to prove this to myself I wanted to take on something that seemed impossible. For a decade I wanted to quit opioids, to make a promise to never take a pill again and I couldn’t do it. It was so important for me that this entire training process be self driven that I trained every day for 6 months with the only people in my life knowing being my wife and two young kids. I didn’t want the crutch of knowing I was letting someone else down if I had a training partner or a coach or a tri group. This endeavor was a challenge and opportunity to prove to myself that by keeping promises to myself on a daily basis I could reach my goal. The ability to keep promises to myself has become my super power. It is how I beat opioids and is what I can now hang my hat on.

What is your “why?”

Below is a post I made in a Private FB group for athletes preparing for IM Florida last year (2020). This was the first time I shared any part of my story publicly-

“All of us have a story, a why and they are all personal. And no ones “why” is more important than someone else’s. I do think it is possible for some of our “whys” to serve others. I also think that this group of highly motivated, disciplined and driven people may be the absolute last group who could gain much from my story but maybe there are others in your life who could. And that is why I will share my “why”.

Because I abused opioids for a good part of a decade until 3 yrs ago when I had the courage to own it and ask for help. When I found the strength I had been trying to muster for years. YEARS. It stemmed from a baseball related injury/surgery and over time grew into something I could not have predicted. It’s so easy to generalize, judge and think it could never be you or someone you know or a family member. I am a father of two, a husband and a professional. I hid it from every person in my life and couldn’t look myself in the mirror. Not a soul I have told had even a clue. Not even my wife. Saturday I race because after ridding myself of the shame associated with it there is absolutely nothing I cannot do. It no longer defines me or is the person I see in the mirror. I race to prove this to myself but to also let others know they are not alone. Every person has their struggles but every person has something incredible inside of them as well. I can’t wait to experience the energy, atmosphere, and community that is IRONMAN. Look forward to racing with all of you. This will be my first IRONMAN.

I am an open book. I will gladly use my experiences to help others. That is also why I am here.

This is the first time I have posted or told anyone outside of my family and a few friends about this part of my life. But this event is a culmination of so much and this community seems like the perfect place to start. Good luck all and I can’t wait for Saturday.

I will continue to share more details of my story in the hopes that someone may need to hear it. In the hopes that someone will reach out in their moment of strength. In the hopes that I can somehow make a difference and serve others.**

It’s easy in this world of social media to assume that others have it all together. We all struggle. You are not alone. Need a person? I’m your guy.”

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

My New Balance 880 running shoes. I was never a runner and I have come to love running over the last 2 yrs. It is therapeutic. It gives me time to think. It helps me reset when life is hard. It allows me to explore new places from a different perspective. And they allow me to do it without blisters 😆

Do you have a favorite race or event?

IRONMAN Florida. I say this because it is really my only event. It was held in November 2020 during the pandemic and was the only full IRONMAN race in north america that year. I feel so fortunate that it took place. That I was able to be on the start line. The restrictions and guidelines due to covid meant that spectators were a fraction of a typical race and the finish line, typically a party atmosphere, was quiet and unassuming. This was the perfect atmosphere for what this race meant to me. I wanted to prove to myself that I didn’t need any outside motivation or accountability to cross that line. That all I needed was inside of me. That it had nothing to do with the energy of the crowd or the motivation from the cheers. It was me keeping a promise to myself. Mile by mile.

What’s next?

Next up is IM 70.3 Cozumel in September and then IM 140.6 St George, UT next May.

I had thought that maybe once I completed IM Florida and this story came full circle I would cross it off the list and be done. But something happens to you during the training for something like this and I realized that it wasn’t about crossing the finish line but the person I became while training to cross that line. And I like that person and the way the training makes me feel. So I guess I caught the bug.

Any fun facts about yourself?

I have been married for almost 16 yrs to an amazing woman. In those 16 yrs we have lived at 16 addresses, in 12 cities, 3 islands and 1 sail boat. We have 2 kids (6 & 4) and one dog. We are here for the adventure and to show our kids there are millions of ways to do this life and no matter which way you choose to do it, do it as your authentic self.

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Pick a goal, make a plan, and start keeping promises to yourself on a daily basis to reach that goal. It will get you there and build your self confidence on the way.

Any other comments or stories you’d like to share?

I am honored to share my story along so many other inspiring stories. If you are struggling and just need to know that you are not alone please reach out. So many of us struggle in silence and the shame becomes overwhelming and isolating. You are not alone and there is hope.

Continue ReadingCorey Harrington
John Gonzalez
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

41

Where are you from?

Tucson, Arizona USA

Instagram

@talonsoldier

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I played soccer growing up from about the age of 4 to the age of 15. My dad was a player in his younger years in Spain and was also a coach so it was part of our family. I also coached young Special Olympics kids when I was in high school as well as refereed games. I was always a swimmer and diver for the first swim team at our high school. I was fairly short at that time but I was an above average swimmer. Unfortunately, I didn’t participate in any athletics for a long time after that. I did join the Air Force and of course during that time trained. About 2 years ago I began a new health and wellness journey that led me to Triathlons.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

I enjoy the journey of challenges I give myself and how I respond to them. I love the camaraderie at the events between athletes. I feel like I belong and I have a purpose. Sometimes it’s really eye opening to see progress. My proudest moment was finishing my first triathlon. My physical and mental health have prospered amazingly. Lost 62lbs. And I have quelled anxiety and depression.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

Last year I had a major ankle injury from running and a major shoulder injury from a cycling crash. I have recovered from them both although the shoulder is still in progress. Balancing training, work, family and school is very tough sometimes. However, I am so fortunate to have a fantastic support system.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life challenges?

Participation has helped me in my recovery journey from alcohol addiction. I chose to go to treatment for alcoholism just over two years ago, and through that process my eyes were opened and a new life was born. I needed to find something that I could put myself into that would really touch all facets of my life positively. This has done that.

What is your “why?”

My why is…..life. I want to continue feeling good about my mind, body, and soul. I also do this for my family. They have become part of it. My kids see me and my father has now gotten involved in events at 71.

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

It’s really hard because I like so many piece of gear. My road bike and TT bike, hydration vest, hat and blenders glasses for running.

Do you have a favorite race or event?

So far this year my favorite event was the Cactus Man Triathlon in Tempe, but I loved all I have done this year so far.

What’s next?

I have another Sprint in July, my first Olympic distance in August and then my first 70.3 Ironman in Tempe in October. After that I will see what happens. I want to do a full Ironman at a destination and get involved with Xterra events as well.

Any fun facts about yourself?

I love to train and perform at these events. I love to cook and smoke food. Love to travel with family and learn new things.

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Make small attainable goals and don’t be afraid of them. Having fun is important. Surround yourself with people and an environment of hat is conducive to what you want, it will make a world of difference. And lastly, lose the fixed mindset. We all need a growth mindset. What you may think is holding you back, really isn’t.

Any other comments or stories you’d like to share?

I feel very fortunate to be on the path I am today. I can’t wait to see where it goes. I am still working at it everyday. I hope to help others once I’m done with school. I am currently in school to be a Nationally Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach.

Continue ReadingJohn Gonzalez
Chris Bonfoco
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

45

Where are you from?

I am from Welland, Ontario Canada, but have recently relocated to Placencia Belize.

Website

Chris teaches mixed martial arts.

My Life Long Journey in Sport has always been destined for Ironman

Ever since I was a boy sport has played the most significant role in my development, personality and purpose. I was a shy, small skinny Canadian boy who started school in 1980. Being a Gen-Xer my early athletic life was consumed with the 2 most popular sports in my city (and most Canadian cities at the time) baseball and of course Hockey.

My parents were awesome and sport to them was a way to keep me and my 2 older brothers active. They were never the parents who were wanting to drive me to 6am practices or “across hell’s half acre” (my Dad’s words) to get me to games so the select leagues were out of the question. My Mom was a Registered Nurse working shift work and my Dad was a Marine Engineer on the laker ships so he wasn’t home often from April to January. My early life in sport meant house league play, and that was fine. Even though we only had a couple games a week my friends and I would always be playing whatever form of hockey we could make up during our play time. Canadian kids from that era could make hockey out of anything.

For me I needed sport. I was shy and sports made it possible for a young man like me who never knew how to start a conversation to socialize. Sport gave me an identity and a purpose. When I got to high school I left all my elementary school friends as my family moved to a different city. I started high school knowing only a couple kids from my new neighbourhood. Again, I would need sport to help me socialize.

Here was my problem: I was a late bloomer. If anyone reading this has ever played hockey you know how vicious the changeroom can be with bullying. As a late bloomer it put me in an awkward situation where I could no longer skate with most of the other kids as I was still a boy and they were developing into men. The Coaches weren’t any help in keeping the changeroom bully free. I wanted to quit. My Dad and I had a sit down talk and we decided that I should play out the season and hang up my skates for good rather than quit before the end of the season. I am eternally grateful to my father for teaching me to see things through, which definitely plays a role in my endurance sport mentality.

Once hockey was out of the picture my focus turned to baseball and a new and somewhat obscure sport to me at the time, rowing. This was the beginning of my obsession with endurance sport. I was still undersized when I joined rowing in the 10th grade. My high school was a lower income working class school not known for rowing and my Coach wasn’t much of a Coach, but he showed up to practice to give us an introduction to the sport.

My Discovery of Endurance and Obsession with Rowing

During this time I continued with baseball, a sport which I was very good at, but my love for rowing was growing. For some reason, somewhat unexplainable, I became obsessed. It was mostly unexplainable as I loved the concept 2 ergometer (despite not being that good on it but I enjoyed the pain it put me through) and my crew came DFL (dead effing last) for 2 years straight. I’ll admit that as a teenaged boy the beautiful girls on the girls crew kept my interest as well which made going to practice more fun.

By the end of high school my crew became ok and my desire to succeed at this sport became my focus. This wasn’t just important that I wanted to succeed. It gave me an identity and a social group. I quit baseball and committed completely to rowing. I began rowing with my local rowing club so my exposure to the sport grew to a larger world. I was unpopular with my new crew mates as I came from the ‘dirty’ school and I didn’t care, I wanted to succeed. Their opinion didn’t matter as the girls liked me so that’s all that mattered. This is when I met the most significant man I’ve met in my life other than my father, Coach John Ruscitti.

Ruscitti came to my local club with a champion pedigree as a Coach and I now had an opportunity to finally learn how to train properly and win. His influence not only provided me with opportunity in the sport but also shook my mentality into a champion mindset. My sport life and social life launched with his entry into my life.

I learned how to Coach and became a great success in rowing. Within 3 years of meeting Coach Ruscitti I became a 3 time Canadian Henley Champion as well as a Varsity Rower at Brock University in St. Catharines Ontario. Brock University is one of the premier rowing schools in Canada. This 3 year journey shaped my mentality, gave me purpose academically as well as a social purpose.

After a few years of great success in rowing I lost my desire for the burn. We all know how that can wear us down over time. I reached my pinnacle in the sport (after 9 years of hard racing) and had no where else to go with it. Making the national team was out of the question as I just wasn’t strong enough to make the team despite giving it my all. No regrets here as I know in my heart I did the best I could and I was undersized even for lightweight. I was elite but not in that magical tier of rowing athletes who can pull near 6 minutes on the concept 2 as lightweights. That machine haunted me and I could never best 6 minutes 46 seconds. I no longer loved the concept 2 ergs … in fact they a cruel torture devices.

Changing Tide with Maturity

I had met the love of my life at this point in my last year of university and I wanted to live a “normal” life for a while. I still Coached rowing and became very successful as a Coach working with Coach Ruscitti. It was over this time that I really learned the importance of mindset and sport psychology of endurance sport. Then came a major shift in sport as in one incident I realized I needed to develop a new skill. This was the beginning of my journey into Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts.

The incidence was a road rage situation where another driver decided to attack me in a parking lot. I took a punch to the face, got out of my vehicle where I noticed the attacker was smaller than me, and I knew him as well. Let’s get things straight here, I’m far from a big guy. 5’10” tall and 145 pounds at the time. The attacker was small. The problem was, was that I didn’t know how to react. I wasn’t hurt at all as the attacker left me alone (mostly as I got out of my vehicle. What concerned me was that I didn’t react). A week later I was threatened by him and some of his friends and this left an emotional scar on me. Again I wasn’t hurt physically but mentally I felt like a coward.

My Journey into Mixed Martial Arts

I then joined my local Jiu-Jitsu school after a couple of years with that incident in my head. I needed something new to obsess about, find a new social group and something I could do with my future wife as she wasn’t a rower. Jiu-Jitsu changed me. I was hopelessly trying to break into the professional world and kept coming in second for jobs. After two years training in Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts I finally discovered a way to monetize my Coaching ability I learned from rowing. My original instructors were dedicated to Martial Arts, but lacked the Coaching structure I was trained in and exposed to through Rowing Canada. I was legitimately being Coached previously by some of the best in the world in a sport that Canada is dominant at. I made a business plan and when I would achieve my Japanese Jiu-Jitsu Blackbelt I would open my own school.

This is where Covid comes into play. We opened our school in 2008 and my school became incredibly successful in competition from Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, to Kickboxing and of course MMA. I earned my Blackbelt in BJJ and enjoyed many competitions while winning some along the way.

During my training for the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation Masters World Championships in 2017 I stumbled on a training article. The article was from a Doctor of Kinesiology who spoke of his journey from endurance sport to BJJ and then back to endurance sport. The methodology of BJJ training for competition is interval training as BJJ is an anaerobic threshold and muscle endurance sport. Through the years I adapted my training from the endurance (muscular and cardio as rowing requires extreme muscle endurance) training to high intensity interval training.

The article explained how he did the same but found himself getting extremely fatigued in matches despite his ‘proper’ training for BJJ competition. What he discovered was that his body was tuned for endurance sport from his formative years, so he started putting more long-distance zone 2 training back into his regime. The result was better performance.

This article intrigued me, so I did the same. The results were two-fold. One, it worked as I found my fatigue levels became much lower in competition. My style is not an easy one to compete with as I am up tempo and a high energy competitor. What I found was I was able to bounce back much quicker after an explosive attack or escape. And two, I fell back in love with endurance sport.

For a while I had a bucket list goal to climb Everest; however, after watching endless videos and seeing the commercialization of the mountain I decided it would be a bad idea to spend 80 thousand dollars on an activity where I might die due to being stuck in traffic on the mountain.

August 3rd 2019

“The night that inspired me to become an Ironman.”

I was planning on what I called a long ride at the time as I was planning on riding from my house in Welland Ontario Canada to my favourite restaurant/bar on Lake Ontario, Emma’s Back Porch (which sadly fell victim to Covid-19), in Burlington Ontario. The ride would be 85 kilometres. Now to that point it wasn’t my longest ride as on June 22, 2019 I rode 140km for my birthday, which was pure suffering as I was totally unprepared for it.

The night before the 85km ride I came across “Iron Cowboy” on Netflix. I was amazed at his 50-50-50 and this got me thinking “I think I should do an Ironman as my Everest.” Up to this point, and to this day, I have considered the Ironman as the ultimate in human athletic achievement that can be done in a single day. Ever since seeing the famous clip of Julie Moss crawling to the finish line in 1982 on ABC’s ‘Wide World of Sports,’ I had an unsolicited admiration and subconscious obsession with the difficulty of triathlon and the mental strength of its athletes. The fact James Lawrence did 50 in 50 days is crazy.

The Swimming Issue

Here was my issue: I couldn’t swim more than 10m at the time with my face in the water, due to trauma I suffered from being dunked as a child. When I was 7 years old I still couldn’t swim. We went to a community pool where the local bad kid was. He was 5 years older than me. My Mother told me and my brother’s to be nice to this boy as “he was a bully because no one gives him a chance.”

I was being playful and we were being kids and splashing. He, at 12 years old, grabbed me and dunked me. At first I was fine as I was a wirey kid and could slip out most of the time when wrestling with my brothers. Unfortunately, this time, I couldn’t. He held me underwater against my will and it was the first time in my life where I felt completely helpless.

Fortunately for me the lifeguard saved me. I was terrified and the first thing I saw when I was set free was my two brothers on the pool deck dumb-founded. This incident kept me from ever feeling comfortable with my face in the water. To this day, I truly believe that bully would have killed me had the lifeguard not rescued me. He wasn’t very bright and lacked the wherewithal to understand what he was doing.

After I competed at the IBJJF Masters World’s that year I decided “I’m doing this Ironman thing.”

September 2019

I decided it was time to overcome my childhood trauma and at the end of September of 2019 I decided to start swimming. What an incredibly difficult feat. I always admired people who could swim 100m let alone 3800m. I figured it would take me 2 years to be ready to meet that task.

It took me and my friend Eric an entire hour to do 20 lengths at my local YMCA. Every length felt like I was going to drown. Knowing the lane buoys were there wasn’t enough to clear my head of the fear of drowning and the memories of being dunked. I was exhausted after that swim.

As the weeks went by my stubborn nature took over and I figured out the breathing in freestyle swimming. To my surprise swimming became meditation time for me as the sensory deprivation really empties your head. Yeah I was slow but I was doing it and I was LOVING it!

March 2020 The Plague …

 I had just signed up with Team Peakers which is a training app to help on my Iron journey. I had a good program to follow as I know a good program when I see one as I am also an endurance sport Coach from my rowing years. However, on March 10, 2020 my local YMCA closed due to fears of the Coronavirus out of China. On March 12 it got worse as we had to cancel our annual Jiu-Jitsu Tournament, NextGen Niagara. Then on March 17, 2020 we had to close our large Mixed Martial Arts School and our 24 hour gym.

I knew the shutdown would be more than the 2 weeks the politicians were saying but not what it became. My frustration loomed as my business had incredible momentum from 13 years and we finally were running properly. I messaged my Coach, Coach Gaby, and said “load me up as I have nothing to do and need to keep my head straight.” Oh did I mention my wife was 7 months pregnant at the time too. Tough times were on the horizon.

We pivoted our gym to online immediately and that helped us massively as we were able to keep many of our students engaged. However, the focus on my training is what kept my head straight through these times and my amazing supportive wife Blayne had my back and was really enjoying what I was doing.

Lots of firsts happened from March 2020 to late June 2020. I ran my first half-marathon (which became a weekly occurrence), did my first 100 mile ride, did my first set of brick workout as well as the ultimate brick the 120km ride followed by a half marathon, my first 70.3 and had my first child.

The training from March to June truly kept my mind off what Covid was doing to my business. It also gave me a feeling off optimal health. Prior to this stretch, my longest run was 13 km. Heck nowadays that is a nice easy cruise. The hardest part of this stretch was embracing Zone 2. Talk about a shot to the ego, especially in running. Running above 7 minutes per kilometre was tough. Not only did it feel like I was moving at a snail’s pace, it was hard on my body and I hated knowing that my friends would see my slow pace on Strava.

My wife was awesome during this time despite being pregnant. She would come to my basement to chat and distract me while I was doing 5 hour Zwift rides. Oh yeah I also conquered the Uber Pretzel during this time too for you Zwift lovers.

Solo 70.3 June 22, 2020

As mentioned earlier, while training for the BJJ Masters world championships the previous year, I did my first 140 km ride for my birthday and it was brutal. I actually did that ride purposefully to suffer so I could fortify my mind for the Jiu-Jitsu championship. This was the beginning of my now annual birthday sufferfest.

So I spoke with Coach Gaby in April 2020 telling her I would like to do a full 140.6 for my birthday. Given that I had never done this she recommended I do a 70.3 first … And thank God she did. I agreed and my preparation was for the 70.3 on my birthday to prepare me for the Wisconsin 140.6 in September 2020. This 70.3 would prove to be a HUGE learning experience.

I woke up the morning of my birthday excited and had arranged for a couple of friends to help me throughout the day. I didn’t think it would be terribly tough as I had done 3 of those 120km to half marathon bricks leading up to my birthday. And swimming wasn’t tough for me as I was pretty slow and wasn’t able to get my heart rate very high back then. I was just getting through the swim.

So at 6:30 am I jumped in the water and did my 1900m in 52 minutes. That was a good time for me at that time. I got on the bike and the wind was tough. Cycling is my best of the 3 disciplines. I had a friend join me on the bike to have someone out there with me. Yes I did draft a bit on the first lap. Not long into it I had to pull away. The wind got tougher and the heat came up.

Got through the bike with a slow time for me at 3hours 14 minutes. I wasn’t mad as the wind was a pain. Started the run and 3 km into it I thought “this is going to be easy.” Well 5 km later I knew I was in trouble. My heart rate was sky rocketing. The temperature at the Welland International Flatwater Centre’s start towers said 41 degrees C. Not only was the heat getting to me but so was my terrible nutrition plan. The caffeine filled gels were making me sick and the 2 apples were, in the words of Ron Burgundy, “a bad idea.”

So 8km in I realized I still had 14km to go and I was hurting. People on my social media knew I was doing this on this day and as a Coach and Martial Arts and Fitness club owner I have expectations to fill. At the halfway point into the run I was making up excuses to stop. “It’s crazy hot people will understand,” “you’ve already covered a lot of distance,” “dude you couldn’t really swim 9 months ago.” Then I had a crucial thought: “Nobody follows a fucking quitter.” Despite the difficulty I finished. Despite running out of water with 4km to go, I finished.

What I learned

I got home after a 7 hour 70.3 which is far from impressive as the swim was 52 minutes, the ride was 3 hours 14 minutes and the run took a long 2 hours 51 minutes. Two huge issues arose: One, my nutrition needs to be better, and two, I have to learn how to transition to the run better by having a better plan on the bike. The third issue would be that I need to get better at swimming but I had already known that.

Moving forward to Ironman Wisconsin

So now I decided to embrace the whole program offered me by Peakers by messaging my Nutritionist Taylor. She gave me a proper nutritional plan for when I planned to do a full 140.6 in three months time. Coach Gaby was completely right to have me do a half first.

So for the rest of the summer I hit it hard and had some more firsts. I did my first 180.2 km ride, and got my first in person swim lessons from Coach Kyle Jones from Edge Triathlon in Niagara Canada. I swam, biked and ran like crazy! And Covid restrictions lifted so I was able to reopen my gym. Unfortunately, we took a huge hit from Covid and were forced to close our 24 hour gym and only keep our Martial Arts and Bootcamp open.

I had a great summer of training. Had two hiccups from running. First my Achilles Tendonitis flared up and I suffered a minor pull in my Psoas. I didn’t get to run a whole lot leading up but I had the miles in and my cardio was off the hook.

Wisconsin was cancelled and I hadn’t officially registered as I was suspicious that it would get cancelled and didn’t want to be stuck in a refund battle that I heard many others had to deal with Ironman. However, my intention was to do it whether the event was cancelled or not.

Peakers tapered me and as I got to the week of the “race” I saw that the weather was going to be terrible. The race was scheduled for Sunday September 21, 2020. Saturday the 20th was lovely and I contemplated doing it that day. Then told myself “no, the race director won’t say ‘hey the weather won’t be ideal on race day so we will do it a day earlier.’” Instead I planned to do a swim with Edge Triathalon the day before on the Welland International Flatwater Centre waterway but chose to do my scheduled taper workout from Coach Gaby. I also noticed a rip in my wet suit that day too. This made it impossible to swim the day before as my wet suit repair had to dry. My father came over the day before as he would be my key support person along with my wife.

I went over the course and where the hydration stations would be as I wanted this to be as authentic as possible. I also spoke to them about the types of things I like to hear when I am physically stressed. Essentially, positive vibes only. I went to bed knowing I was about to get myself into something super difficult and that I’ve never done before.

4am, September 21, 2020: Race Day

No Alarm clock needed! 3:30am I got out of bed with some doubt in my mind. I could hear the wind and rain outside and knew the weather was exactly as predicted. Essentially a thunderstorm without the thunder and lightning, although there was a 60 per cent chance of a thunderstorm.

I took the early wake-up to reflect on what I was about to tackle. Understanding your ‘why’ is absolutely essential. Like most people in his mid 40’s I have a lot of internal demons. Self-doubt created through incorrect actions or inactions weigh on the mind of ultra-competitive high performing people. From times where I felt like I gave into fatigue to business decisions where I felt I under performed or avoided what needed to happen. I got myself into this to end any self-doubt of my resolve. This day was a day that was me versus me and my spiritual growth.

As I ate my breakfast and looked outside in the dark at the terrible weather, I felt that normal inner conflict. Part of me wanted to use the weather as an excuse not to do it. I was surgical in my training at going through the paces. So I went through the paces — made sure all my hydration, supplements, nutrition etc.. was all prepared as was my transition bags.

I was to meet my father at the Welland International Flatwater centre at 6am as he was there to get me started. I rolled up at 5:50am had my final preparation video and music playing. The wet suit was already on. All I had to do was put my arms in and zip it up.

I got down to the dock with my suit zipped up. Stared at the water as it was tough to see since it was still dark outside. The wind was whipping but no signs of lightning. The swells were big for the flatwater centre but they weren’t enough for a race director to ‘call it.’ I put myself in the RD’s shoes and knew that it was go time. I stood quiet at the end of the dock getting myself ready with internalized self-talk. Had a moment with God as I scanned the water, pressed start on my Garmin and jumped in.

It’s really strange what goes through the head of an athlete before attacking the task in which months had been invested. On this day something strange had overcome me. Despite my nerves and the feelings of dread for the scope of the task ahead, my mind was the strongest it has ever been. As soon as I took my first stroke I simply thought; “Well, here we go.”

The swim was long as I was not the fastest and I was dealing with white caps. The wind was a straight south wind and the course is a direct north-south course. My plan was to swim to the 500m mark three times and to the 200m mark twice which equals 3.8km. As I approached the second half of the swim the rain started coming down hard. This was a good thing as I calmed the waves. Then I thought, “oh crap my running shoes are in my backpack in the bleachers.” So I started problem solving whilst swimming, “no problem have Dad take the shoes to my house and throw the in the dryer. I have a 6 hour ride for them to dry.”

As I climbed out of the water I was a little disoriented as it took me 1 hour and 42 minutes to complete the swim. My Garmin let me down saying the swim was only 3200m but fortunately I used the measured course and know it’s legit. The conditions did slow me down but I doubt I would’ve beaten 1 hour 30 minutes in nice conditions.

When I got to my SUV my Dad was waiting in his car as it was pouring. I was happy to see my Dad rescued my backpack and shoes. I quickly transitioned into my cycling gear. My father asked “are you going to ride in this?” The wind was whipping at 30km/hour with gusts into the mid 40’s. I said “yep the race would be on. There is no lightning.” I hopped on my sweet ride (Cervelo P3) for my favorite of the 3 disciplines.

By this point the rain was crashing down and the wind was a SSW/S wind making 2/3 of my track against the wind. I had to travel my 45km course 4 times. The longest stretch was straight into the wind only 5km into the lap and was for 7km. My mind was in a different dimension. I had no negative thoughts. Knowing how tough the wind would be I prepared mentally to focus strictly on cadence and heart rate. I made sure I kept my heart rate below 140 BPM and my cadence between 85-95 rpm. Into the wind I tried to keep it up around 95 to stop me from grinding.

“Cadence is good, heart rate is good. You’ll make up speed on the second half,” I kept saying to myself. My father was waiting for me at the 22km mark and the start/finish of each lap for Gatorade or water. I had a great nutrition strategy from my Coach and followed it perfectly. I remember seeing my wife, Blayne, with my father as I grabbed a fresh Gatorade going into my second lap. She looked concerned because of the storm and how it may be affecting me. I just told her “the weather is nuts. I Fucking LOVE it.”

It’s strange how we pain junkies operate. Most people would use the weather as an excuse to not do the task. Pain junkie’s are wired differently. To me the crazy weather added to the challenge and distracted me from the monumental task at hand. It put me more in the moment. My final 3 laps were a blur. I kept my pace steady while maintaining focus on heart rate and cadence knowing how tough the run was in my 70.3 only 3 months earlier. The ride sets up the run.

On my 70.3 I used my Amazon purchased road bike. The bike was heavy but I upgraded the wheels from the fake speed weaponry wheels to Alexx wheels and had aerobars and clipless shoes. But for my 140.6 I had my sweet Cervelo P3 but did not put my real Zipp racing wheels on due to the wind (808 on the front and a 1080 on the rear).

I got through the ride feeling great. 6 Hours for the ride despite the weather and I had a strong gas tank still for the run. Only made 1 mistake on the ride. I wore my compression socks that I normally wear for the run but the were soaked and I didn’t want to risk blisters. Going into my final lap on the bike I asked my Dad to get Blayne to grab me a fresh pair of socks. The weather began to clear through the final lap and as I sped to the transition I Coached myself to take it easy in the transition and to make sure I took in enough calories to get ready for the run. To this point the farthest I had ever run was 26km. Sadly that 26km run ended with me pulling my Psoas.

The Run

While I was riding I messaged my friend Eric who was to accompany me on the run. Earlier that day he planned his own marathon. He wasn’t surprised I went after it despite the weather. He let me know he would be there but about an hour into my run as he was finishing. Eric’s response “you crazy m___f__r” fired me right up as I bared down on the last kilometres of the ride.

When I got to the transition I ate a banana, changed my socks and jersey and set off. I had a plan to maintain a specific heart rate on the run but as the weather cleared it warmed up and I began to ignore my Garmin and use my hurt metre. My Dad was at every 5km marker with water. Everything was great.

It’s amazing where our mind goes when we are in the right place. The craziest things seem perfectly reasonable. 12 Kilometres into the run Eric showed up with his car and asked how I was doing. His wife Kaylee was driving as he was recovering from his solo marathon. They asked how far in I was and I said “12 kilometres, only 30 to go.” His response was epic: “oh man that’s nothing. You got this!”

It was funny because in the moment it made perfect sense. “Yeah I mean what’s 30 kilometres,” I thought, despite me never running more than 26 km before and that didn’t include doing a 3.8km swim and a 180km ride before it. I was on a high and cruising. The legs felt great and I just kept getting closer to the finish 1 step at a time. Then adversity struck.

During the long stretch down the Niagara Canal path to Port Colborne the sun became an issue and I started cramping. This was between the 15 and 20 kilometre mark. When I arrived at the 20 kilometre mark I said to my Dad “I’m breaking down. I’m getting a stomach ache and my hamstrings are starting to Charlie horse,” he asked, “how’s your heart?” I said, “perfect, I’m just hurting.” There was no quit in me. At this station I diluted some Coca Cola in my water, took my schedule salt pills and proceeded.

This was the first spot where I walked. There was a steep hill and I walked it to give my hamstrings a break. Between 20km and 25km was my hardest 5 km in the entire journey. I walked about 500-750m total. Not because I was tired but because both hamstrings were Charlie-horsing. When I got to the 25km hydration station I hammered a small can of Coca Cola, took some Tylenol and hit the road again. This is when it all changed.

I started speeding up, I felt great and the Charlie-horses were gone. I strategically ran through my old neighbourhood when I was a child and by my first school. This experience is about a lot more than pushing the body. I was on a personal and spiritual quest. My main ‘why’ was to shed any doubt of my mental and physical ability. To kill all those demons that build in your psychie as you age. It was a quest to forgive myself and to grow into who I can be. When I reached the 30km marker I drank another small Coke and I began to split un 5:45/kilometre. I felt weightless and could feel the energy of my support crew. Their energy was “nothing is stopping him. He’s going to finish strong.”

Eric drove beside me for most the last 20km and honestly his energy is infectious. We have a deep understanding of one-another as I Coached him for years in MMA and he made me a better Coach as he was an excellent but challenging person to Coach. We’ve been to war together on many occasions and there is a special trust that develops between warriors. As I was closing in on the finish Eric asked “wait, what is your estimated finish time?”

 I said, “about 4 hours 35 minutes I think.”

Eric replied, “shit I think that’s faster than my time.”

I said “really? Man it all this zone 2 training I’ve been doing. I can’t believe my engine.” Yes my engine was strong but the energy my support crew was giving me was felt. I felt so strong, supported and positive.

I ripped through the last 6km feeling terrific, and again my support crew was on it. I skipped the final hydration station but felt my right hamstring start to Charlie with 2.5km to go. I pulled up for a split second and 2 seconds later my Dad passed a Gatorade through the window on my SUV. As I approached the finish I asked Blayne to have my tune blasting. “More Human than Human,” by White Zombie as I really connected with this song given that I believe it takes a special person to finish an Ironman: regular human need not apply.

12 Hours and 25 minutes after I started I finished right in front of my house where I let out a huge scream of triumph, launched my trusty Toronto Blue Jays hat into the air as my Dad made the “You are an Ironman” call (a call that I am excited to hear at Ironman Cozumel 2021 where I finally get to do a sanctioned Ironman).

I enjoyed a couple Stellas with Eric while I stood on my driveway in victory. The victory wasn’t a medal. It was an accumulation of forgiving myself for doubts I’ve had of myself. For making peace with myself and God. For being thankful for proving to myself my true resolve and determination. I became More Human than Human over those 12+ hours and I did it properly. I faced the rain, wind, stormy weather and the sun. I overcame mental trauma from my fear of having my face in the water. It was special that my family and a very good friend went out of their way to help me. I could not have accomplished this without them.

My Final Thoughts

Despite COVID-19 eventually destroying my business and changing our way of life I was able to find something to cleanse my soul and give me purpose. This accomplishment of completing a full Iron distance Triathlon will be with me forever and it taught me that there is nothing I can’t accomplish — even in the most difficult times and conditions.

Moving forward my wife and I chose to leave Canada after we closed our business and move to Belize where we are hoping to gain permanent residency. We are loving the time we get to spend with our beautiful baby boy George and are on a new and exciting adventure. I am currently training for Ironman Cozumel November 2021 which is perfect for climatizing to the heat and am opening a new Martial Arts school here in Belize.

Continue ReadingChris Bonfoco
Christoph Kogler
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

32

Where do you live?

Klagenfurt, Austria

Instagram

@christophkoegler

What is your history with sports and athletics?

As it’s usual for almost any European kid, I started out with playing soccer in my local club. At that time I didn’t really have the intention to achieve something or become a professional, it was more about being in a team and making friends. At the age of 12 I got hooked on a track and field team. I always enjoyed running, so this was a cool opportunity. I succeeded in some youth competitions, but soon returned to soccer, playing the game until I was around 16. From 16 to my 20s, sport wasn’t a really a focus, as we founded our first band, toured a lot etc. During my studies in marketing and communication I started to play rugby, but more important started work for IRONMAN triathlon and really got hooked on endurance sports and since then I am totally into swim, bike and run, each on their own or combined. Snowboarding, XC skiing, trail running and hiking round up my sports profile.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

I guess it’s all about learning what you can achieve and do, if you are willing to, as well as the bond you develop with like-minded people. Of course we all enjoy being fast and hard training sessions, but in the end it’s about what happens on a social level. Long story short: I enjoy meeting people that are into the same things.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

Thankfully, not yet. There have been some smaller back issues, but nothing that would keep me away from training or racing for a longer time.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life challenges?

I had some anxiety issues, not really bad ones thanksfully. But joining a triathlon club, being with like minded people and simply moving for the sake of motion helped me to appreciate the little things way more and the anxiety issues got better.

What is your “why?”

I wanna know, where my breaking point is. I want to know how far I could take it. I wann a overcome the “You cannot do that.”-thought.

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

I like my pull buoy and the blackroll stuff. Besides, I never thought I’d admit, but Yoga is the thing if you want to improve mobility!

Do you have a favorite race or event?

I really love small, familiar events, but there’s no specific one (yet) 🙂

What’s next?

Two open water swim races in Europe, as well as a middle distance triathlon race.

Any fun facts about yourself?

Not really. I am really loud and annoying sometimes.

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

You don’t need expensive gear, bikes or whatever. Find people doing the stuff you wanna do and join them. There’s always something to learn. In the end it’s all about action and just doing what you want to do. Pace, time and splits aren’t important.

Continue ReadingChristoph Kogler
Denise Escher
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

49

Where are you from?

Philadelphia, PA

How have endurance sports changed your life?

Back in 2009, I was the victim of an attempted domestic homicide. I was stabbed 11 times by my then spouse and my children’s father. Endurance sports helped me overcome alcoholism and PTSD. 

Here is Denise’s story, which was originally published on Love Fraud.

Valentine’s Day, 2009. Denise Ledden of Prospect Park, Pennsylvania, a quiet suburb of Philadelphia, did not celebrate the holiday with her husband of six years, Mark Ledden. Instead, she had dinner with a friend, bringing along her two sons, aged 6 and 3. She could not go anywhere without the children. Mark forbade it.

The Ledden family was living in Denise’s parents’ home, because she and Mark had lost two of their own—one in Delaware, and one in Arizona. Her mother’s dining room had been converted to a bedroom, and recently, Denise had been sleeping with the children. She did not want sleep with Mark.

At 10 p.m., Denise’s six-year-old was already in bed, but the three-year-old was sitting with her in the living room. Mark asked her a question: “So when do you think you’re coming back to the bedroom?”

“I don’t know,” Denise replied.

After a pause, Mark said, “You really hate me, don’t you?” It was more of a statement than a question.

Denise was not happy. It was Valentine’s Day, and she got nothing from her husband—no card, no gift, no romantic dinner. They were financially strapped. They were homeless. And he complained that he didn’t get enough sex.

Usually, Denise told her husband exactly what he wanted to hear—she was afraid to do otherwise. But on Valentine’s Day 2009, her resentment boiled over and she spoke the truth:

“Sometimes I do fucking hate you,” she said.

Mark looked at her—or perhaps it was through her. “Oh yeah?” he replied.

Mark left the living room and went into the kitchen. He returned, grabbed Denise by the hair, yanked her away from her son, and, pulling a knife from behind his back, dragged her into the kitchen, where he began to stab her.

Denise screamed.

Mark Ledden intends to kill

Mark stabbed Denise several times; then the knife broke. He dragged his bleeding wife across the kitchen floor to the knife drawer to grab another weapon.

At one point, Mark, a former body builder, had Denise face down on the floor and was trying to stab her face and neck with a knife, but Denise frantically defended herself with her arms. So Mark stabbed her in the back and the side of her chest, by her breast. Denise continued to plead and scream.

Breaking that knife, Mark held onto Denise while he got another one and then shoved her against the kitchen door, stabbing her again in the chest and twisting the knife inside her. Denise urinated in her pants.

“Stop! Please stop!” Denise screamed. “I peed my pants!”

“I’m already getting five years for what I’ve done so far,” Mark coldly replied.

With those words, the only words he spoke, Denise knew that her husband intended to kill her. She screamed for her six-year-old son:

“Help mommy! Call 911! Go run to the neighbor’s house and get help for mommy!”

The boy got up out of bed, saw his father stabbing his mother and blood all over the kitchen, and began to cry and scream uncontrollably.

Mark let go of Denise’s hair and turned to his son. “It’s okay,” he said. “Just lie back down.”

Taking advantage of the interruption, Denise dashed for the door, got two of them open and ran barefoot into the street. Mark was right behind her.

Denise Ledden runs for her life

Denise ran as fast as she could through the neighborhood, glancing over her shoulder. Mark stopped at the end of the driveway and went back into the house.

Denise’s mother had a weekend job providing home care to an elderly lady in the neighborhood, and that’s where she headed. One house was all lit up, and Denise ran up to it and banged on the storm door with two massively bleeding arms.

The neighbor came to the door. It actually wasn’t the home where Denise’s mother worked, but the one next door.

“Please help me!” Denise cried. “I need an ambulance.”

“What happened?” the shocked neighbor asked.

“My husband stabbed me and was trying to kill me. My kids are alone in the house with him. Call the police right away and I need an ambulance. I’m looking for Josephine’s house because my mother is there!”

With this, the neighbor recognized Denise, called 911, and went next door to get her mother. By the time Denise’s mother got outside, the police were there.

“Go get the kids!” Denise told both her mother and the police. “Just go get the kids!”

Emergency room

Denise was transported to the Crozer-Chester Medical Center shock trauma emergency room. During the ambulance ride, Denise heard that “more” were coming from her parent’s address. She was terrified that the injured were her children.

The injured turned out to be Mark. He slit his wrist and cut himself in the neck and stomach, later claiming that Denise attacked him first. Mark was actually in the room next to Denise in the ER, and she could hear him screaming, “Just let me die!”

Mark was arraigned while chained to his hospital bed. A psychiatrist determined that he was not insane, and instead of being sent to a psychiatric hospital, he was eventually sent to jail.

Denise had a total of 11 stab wounds. Tubes were inserted into her lungs, which were collapsed due to puncture wounds. She had exploratory surgery to check for damage to her organs—luckily, no internal repairs were necessary. She had a defensive wound on her left forearm that left her thumb partially disabled. Repairing it would require tendon transfer surgery.

What happened after that traumatic event?

He went to prison. I started drinking the nights away. He passed away from a virus in prison just a few short months prior to his potential release. At that time, I knew I had a problem and needed a change. I reached out to a friend and started going to Alcoholics Anonymous and as of June 7 of this year, I will be 5-years sober.

How did sports influence your recovery?

I used to run while I was a drinker and through my PTSD, but I wanted something else. I had friends in the Tri community who asked me, given that I’ve been a lifelong pool swimmer, to give it a shot. 

I was scared to death to go out into open water. So, off I went with two Ironman friends. Everyone there looked like they knew what they were doing (wetsuits have that effect, lol), so off I went. Got to the first buoy and I was IN LOVE. Now I do open water swim racing and I enjoy swimming as often as possible.

 

What’s next?

I signed up for two triathlons in 2019. 2020 was supposed to be the year for my first half Ironman, alas. Covid. So, now I’m back getting ready for Ironman 70.3 Musselman on July 11.

I’m on the board of the Schuylkill Triathlon Club, I teach Spinning at my local LA Fitness, and I was chosen this year as a Team Zoot ambassador.

Triathlon has given me a brand new life to live fully and fearlessly.

Continue ReadingDenise Escher
Mike Ergo
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

38

Where do you live?

Petaluma, CA

Website

transitionsfromwar.com

Instagram

@transitions_from_war

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I grew up playing baseball, but gave it up in high school. I served in the Marine Corps from 2001-2005 and deployed to Iraq twice. Coming home I struggled with PTSD and alcoholism. I got sober in 2012. On vacation in Kona, Hawaii in 2014, I was there at the same time as The IRONMAN World Championship race and was mesmerized. I started racing The IRONMAN 70.3 distance and then the full IRONMAN triathlon. I did so while wearing the names of my Marine brothers who were killed in action during my second deployment and some that were killed after that time. I race to honor their memories and help myself grieve.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

I love both the feeling of moving my body- which reminds me that I’m alive – and the purpose of honoring the fallen. I co-founded The IRONMAN Foundation’s Gold Star Initiative that pairs a veteran with a Gold Star Family (family of a military member killed during service) at an IRONMAN event; The veteran carries a flag in honor of the fallen and presents it to the family at the finish line. This initiative helps me realize that there is hope and healing taking place.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

Fitting training into my day is a challenge. I have two kids, age 7 and 4. So I have to get up around 4:00am to fit that in so I am available to be a father and husband later in the day. The other challenge has been finding motivation to train through COVID restrictions because they

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

Yes. See this article: https://people.com/human-interest/former-marine-overcomes-addiction-following-deaths-29-brothers-iraq-by-competing-ironman/

Do you have a favorite race or event?

I love IRONMAN and IRONMAN 70;3 races. My favorite has been The IRONMAN World Champtionship in Kona, Hawaii.

What’s next?

I will be racing Kona again and this time will be carrying the flag in honor of Lance Corporal Nick Anderson. He is the son of my friend Lisa Anderson, who co-founded the Gold Star Initiative with me.

Any fun facts about yourself?

I originally joined the Marine Corps to be in the band, but changed my mind after September 11th and switched to the infantry.

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Sign up for something, anything, and train for it. You don’t have to know how to accomplish a goal in order to start.

Any other comments or stories you’d like to share?

Other media stories on me you can reference:
https://transitionsfromwar.com/media/

Continue ReadingMike Ergo
Yolanda Kupcikevicius
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

53

Where do you live?

Chicago, Illinois

Instagram

yoli_kup

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I played high school volleyball, basketball and ran track. I kind of let myself fall into bad health habits after my children were born.

At the age 50, in was asked to join a much younger and physically fit friend in a triathlon. I didn’t know how to swim at the time, but I was determined to learn how and complete this triathlon to prove all the doubters wrong! I successfully completed my first triathlon and have been hooked ever since.

I belong on two  race teams and I’m a brand ambassador for several products related to racing.

I was depressed prior to racing because my children moved out of the house and I had an empty nest. My nest might be empty, but it has taught me to fly!

What do you enjoy most about being athlete?

I enjoy the discipline and the positive effects it has on my appearance and mental health. I weighed 277 pounds when I started my journey and I was embarrassed at what I became. I felt like a hypocrite when I would talk to my patients as a nurse. Now I feel better physically and mentally. In addition, I have made many new friends and have joined two race teams.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

My biggest obstacle was myself. I had to overcome self doubt, body image shame and difficulties in being a larger athlete, such as clothes, sturdy bike, wet suit, etc.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

Competing in triathlons has helped me finally lose weight I have been battling the last 25 years. It has helped me with personal relationships because I no longer hate myself.

What is your “why?”

My why is to motivate other middle aged overweight people that it’s never too late and you are never too old to pursue athletic goals.

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

My Cannondale bike!

Do you have a favorite race or event?

Chicago Triathlon

What’s next?

Ironman 70.3 Steelhead

Any fun facts about yourself?

I have the memory of an elephant which helps me immensely when playing trivia games or Jeopardy!

Do you have any advice or someone interested in getting started?

It’s the famous “just do it” because no one will do it for you!

Any other comments or stories you’d like to share?

I used to be terrified of water, especially deep water. That is why I never learned to swim. I now compete in open water swimming and have become an avid kayaker!

Continue ReadingYolanda Kupcikevicius
Lisa Loyer
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

40

Where do you live?

Cumming, GA USA

Instagram

lisasloyer

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I played some sports when I was younger, but I was never an athlete. I was focused on school and eventually, my job.

After I got divorced, I took a year to get my life back together. During that time, I focused on my health and mental well-being. A girlfriend of mine dared me to sign up for a local sprint triathlon that was 6 weeks away. Not sure what I was thinking, but I’m not one to turn down a dare!

So I joined the gym and I started swimming again. It took me 45 minutes to swim 500 yards and I had to bust out every stroke I knew how to do. It was pretty bad, but I kept at it.

I bought a 2nd hand bike and it really is what they say. You never forget how to ride. My first ride was just a mile, but from the smile on my face, you would have thought I had a century ride!

The running was, and continues to this day, to the hardest thing.

But for 6 weeks, I trained 6 days a week and I conquered my 1st triathlon. I fell in love with the sport.

I continued my training and really jumped off the ledge when I signed up for the 70.3 half Ironman race in Augusta in September 2019.  I went down for camp in August and participated in Gatorfest so I could ride the bike course.

Race day came, and I don’t care what anyone says – there is nothing like having your mom there to cheer you on!

I saw an alligator on the swim, survived the bike, and completed the run. My watch said the temperature was 104 on the run. It was brutal, but it was awesome! I finished with 11 minutes to spare at cutoff.

I couldn’t wait to come back again in 2020 and do it all over again. Then Covid hit.

I kept at my training to keep mine and body together and signed up for my first full distance Ironman race in November 2021.

I’m going back to Augusta again, but it will be my “practice race.” If anyone would have told me a year ago that I’d be doing a 70.3 as a practice race, I would have died laughing.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

Being able to eat! I get to eat all the time and everything I want! Nutrition is the 4th discipline of triathlon so I am conscious of what I’m putting in as fuel, but I don’t have to sweat the piece of cake or a cold beer.

What I really love though is the consistency of training. Race day is cool but the day to day of getting in my training and keeping myself accountable makes me feel good and accomplished, no matter what else is happening.

The Tri community is awesome. I’ve made so many new friends and have really been pushed out of my comfort zone.

And of course, bragging rights!

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

The biggest challenge is mental. I’m too tired, I’m too busy, I’m sore.

I had to change my mindset from “I’m too busy” to “this is a priority, and as such, I’m going to do it.”

I also work a very corporate management job so it requires a lot of early mornings to get my workouts in.

Probably one of the coolest things that came out of this time of my life is when I started training my 1st 70.3, I had just started dating someone new and I was really worried that the time commitment to training would have a negative impact on our relationship. The opposite happened. He jumped head first in, bought a bike so we could ride together and is my biggest cheerleader!!!

Has your participation in sports helped you overcome any major life issues?

I have always been overweight. I’ll never be a skinny girl but I am strong and I have a ton of endurance. I am so comfortable in my body now that I don’t let a few extra pounds stop me.

What is your “why?”

My “why” is because complacency is a killer. I want to push myself forward and always be a better version of myself. Progress is often not seen until the last 10 %, but I love that 90% push

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

Esmerelda – she’s my road bike! We have thousands of miles together and I discovered that I’d your cycling kit and shoes match your bike, you go faster!!

Do you have a favorite race or event?

Gatorfest in Augusta. The people are just the nicest!

What’s next?

I really hoping to hit the Low Country Splash in Charleston this year, Ironman Florida in November 2021, and in 2022, I’d like to do IMCHOO and maybe a trail ultramarathon.

Any fun facts about yourself?

  • I have 3 siblings and of the 4 kids, I was the least athletic growing up!
  • I am a long distance hiker and I love dragging my boyfriend and his friends out for long hiking miles!
  • I love craft beer! And with all the training, I can indulge 🙂

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

  • Start slow but don’t stop!
  • Pay your $ and sign up for a race. It will help.
  • Keep yourself accountable.

Any other comments or stories you’d like to share?

Cross training is important. In addition to swimming, biking, and running, I also
trail run, hike, do a bunch of overnight backpacking trips, and do some weightlifting with my boyfriend. I involve my friends in different activities to encourage them to be active but it also helps keep my training fresh.

Continue ReadingLisa Loyer
Donna Rae Lovelace

How old are you?

53

Where do you live?

Colorado Springs, CO

Website

https://donna-lovelace.remax.com

Instagram

draelosk

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I was super athletic through high school Gymnastics, track and field and dance. I decided to pursue a dance career in LA after graduating high school. I started a family at the young age of 24 and did not have really any solid athletic activity until I was age 48.

When my second son was born I was diagnosed at the age of 30 with a degenerative disc disease and an autoimmune disorder. I was still living in my native state of CA, in Sonoma County. Soon after we all moved to Denver because that is where my ex husband grew up and he wanted to move back to his state and pursue a career as a firefighter.

I was so busy acclimating to a new state and making sure my kids had a nice upbringing in our new state and all of my needs and fitness goals (which honestly, I didn’t think I was able to do with my diagnosis) took a back seat to having a home life.

At 48 and having my youngest graduating high school, I was starting to notice body changes that I did not like! SO I joined Lifetime Fitness in Parker CO. and hired a personal trainer. He at that time was also a triathlon coach.. Somehow I was “roped” into joining Lifetime’s triathlon team and did my first Sprint distance after only six weeks of learning from scratch how to swim, bike (never owned or clipped into a road bike before) and run. The running was and still is my biggest challenge because of my 36 degree curve and degenerative discs. I managed to swim open water, bike and run the full distance even though I did not even know the basics of what to wear, transition, or anything! After that first triathlon, I was hooked!

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

I enjoy the challenges brought to me daily. Every time I PR on a route that I did before, feel stronger on any swim, bike or run that I had previously accomplished or moving up in the “pack” on my team rides, I feel empowered to face the challenges in my real life issues. And I assure you, at 53 and being single in the workforce is a challenge.

I have a coach and she is one of the most inspiring people in my life because of all of her accomplishments in sport and career along with HUGE physical challenges that she has had in the most recent years. She makes me accountable which I LOVE and really cares about my progress. I have SO much to learn in every discipline and THAT is what excites me to be a sponge and improve. I suppose I am very competitive ( so I have been told) so improving is always number one on my list.

However, the reason why I stay in this sport is because of the people I have met and continue to meet. I would say that I stick around and endure the pain daily just so I can be around others who do the same. At our age (age groupers) we do not take ourselves seriously and joke around. But most of all, we support one another and become close having the same sort of life in common, I would say that 75% is social interaction and 25% is the training are the reasons I stay in this sport. It is my happy place and I am so grateful for it. Covid and not training with my groups has been a serious mental challenge for me and I am guessing everyone as well.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

As mentioned above ( I don’t want to bore you LOL) My back.. my Doctors and Neurologists all cannot believe I do what I do. However, they keep telling me to continue what I am doing (they do not like me running though) because it is keeping me from having the dreadful spine fusing surgery and buying me time until they maybe can find a better treatment.

Don’t get me wrong.. I train in pain daily. The pain is never not there. Some days the pain in my L4 L5 is so severe, I have to stop in mid session. That is now just something I have to accept and not let it upset me. I have to give my mind and body grace and really work on not being frustrated.

However, when I DO see able bodied folks complaining about things and just sitting on the couch, I am likely to tell them my story. I get out of bed and DO SOMETHING outside!, Even though my pain is there, I wake up at 5:30 and DO it. Everyone has their challenges in their life and this is mine. I accept it. I honor it, and respect it. Live everyday to your max.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

Gosh. I can honestly tell you that I refer to triathlon training at least 3 times a week when a personal issue or life ( adulting) issue comes along. I say to myself that I am stronger than I am giving myself credit for and “you can do this”

What is your “why?”

My “why”is: After seeing my mother die of cancer at 73 and seeing her not live out any dreams. She lived her life for others and was a saint. So at my mid life age of 53 I do not want regrets. I want to attack life as hard as can and live my daily life with as much activity as I can. To have fun doing it is key. So, in a nutshell. Have fun facing the challenges of my life and going for it!

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

I LOVE my Garmin 945. I LOVE my bike, my kits. They are fun and sexy!

Do you have a favorite race or event?

I honestly do better in shorter distances because of my back but my biggest challenge ahead of me is finishing a 70.3 sub Seven. I would be thrilled to have that under me.

What’s next?

Keep training and seeing my team and friends as Covid clears up. Learning everyday to improve from others expertise so I can get faster.

Any fun facts about yourself?

I LOVE to cook and EAT. Always thinking about my next meal. lol. I love to take care of others through my cooking and nourish them. I love entertaining and laughing.. always laughing and eating.

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Don’t wait! Just go for it!!

Continue ReadingDonna Rae Lovelace
Katie Kilgalen

How old are you?

39

Where do you live?

Forest Hill, Maryland

Instagram

kt1432

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I began athletics at a very young age. I was 5 when I first started playing basketball, soccer and softball. While I tried many sports basketball quickly became my love and I played at a very competitive level for over 15 years, ending my career by choice my sophomore year of college.

I became a runner at 32 after my daughter was born. After multiple injuries, including a devastating broken ankle with compound fractures, when I was 36 I had to explore other avenues. I began swimming which quickly evolved into triathlon.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

Athletics have always been a part of who I am and what helps define my character. I have formed some of the most amazing and lifelong friendships along the way.

I have used sport as a way to manage both my physical and mental health. I view it as therapy, an outlet, to escape from the world which can be so challenging at times.

My proudest accomplishment to date is my finish at IRONMAN Lake Placid in 2019.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

Throughout my life I have struggled with anxiety and depression. I have been in abusive relationships which have resulted in such trauma both physically and mentally I would self medicate. I suffered multiple miscarriages (9 and 16 weeks), broken bones, torn ACL and ultimately a broken soul.

My trauma led me to use alcohol in a way that was destroying everything I wanted to become. After multiple DUIs and finally time in jail I realized I wanted better for myself and my daughter. On 11/18/2019 I decided I had enough and I made the choice to get sober.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

Endurance racing, more specifically IRONMAN, has saved my life. Even with the pandemic and canceled events it gave me the outlet I need and continue to need.

It helps me manage my anxiety and depression. It helps me escape from the stress of everyday life. It helps me to get the high I’m looking for without putting toxins in my body. It helps me stay sober.

What is your “why”?

My why is my deserve to give my daughter the life she deserves, and to give myself the life I deserve. I know the path I have to walk isn’t going to be easy but I also know I have the strength to stay on this road.

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

Of the three sports in triathlon cycling is without a doubt my favorite. Nothing compares can compare to flying on my TT bike without a care in the world.

Do you have a favorite race or event?

IRONMAN Lake Placid will always hold a special place in my heart. The Baltimore marathon is my absolute favorite running event.

What’s next?

My hope for 2021 is to PR my 70.3, 140.6, 50K and marathon. Aiming for a sub 13 finish at IRONMAN Maryland and sub 6 finish at Eagleman.

I’m still finding myself and figuring out what I want in triathlon. I would love to qualify for Kona through legacy.

Any fun facts about yourself?

I live for donuts, tacos and 90s gangsta rap. I also coordinate my outfits to match from head to toe

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

The best advice I would give is to really make sure you find your why. And ultimately figure out what drives you because at the end of the day this needs to be for you.

Continue ReadingKatie Kilgalen
Bryan Boccelli
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

29

Where do you live?

Lakehurst, NJ USA

Instagram

bboccelli112

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I have a short stint in athletics in high school playing baseball and running cross country. It wasn’t until I turned 27 that I delved heavily into multi sport with the aspirations of being a triathlete.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

I love the freedom. I enjoy the ability to get out and clear my head. Setting goals, both big and small, and achieving them is what I enjoy the most.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

I’ve experienced many challenges including major injuries and personal life priorities.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life obstacles?

My mental health is the biggest winner in all of this. I was diagnosed bipolar and along with my therapies and medications the relief of vigorous physical activity brings me the greatest release and balancing of my mental health.

Do you have a favorite race or event?

I mostly enjoy duathlons (I’m not a great swimmer, lol).

What’s your “why?”

It’s pretty simple. Why not? There is nothing but positive outcomes from doing what I love and pushing harder to achieve more each time.

What’s next?

My life goal is to compete in Ironman Hawaii. I’d like to place in my age group. Maybe if I’m lucky enough, I’ll put in enough hard work to compete as a prop there one day.

Any fun facts about yourself?

My favorite fact is probably that I’m a 12 year veteran of the fire service.

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

If you want it, go for it. If you have questions, don’t be afraid to ask someone for help to steer you in the right direction.

Continue ReadingBryan Boccelli
Read more about the article Lisa Austin
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

51

Where do you live?

Ottawa, Canada

Website

howtoslayyourdrunkdemons.com

What is your history with sports and athletics?

Growing up as a child, I spent most of my time playing with neighborhood friends avoiding being at home as much as possible. Both my parents had come from very abusive homes and had become alcoholics. My household was very dysfunctional as my parents were working through their own childhood trauma. I suffered every type of abuse imaginable. We were very poor, there was constant fighting in my house and they divorced when I was 12 but both ended up with people who were also addicts.

By the time I was an adult I had become overweight and an alcoholic myself. The first sport I had ever played was in a beer baseball league. I was absolutely terrible! I had never played any type of sport. I hurt my back in my early 30’s and had to attend physical therapy everyday.

Through this process I was introduced to fitness and running. I absolutely loved the feeling of exercise and pushing myself physically. This was a very new concept for me at this point. Although I was drinking heavily by this time, I had managed to complete few half marathons. They were miserable. I had not trained properly and was so disappointed in myself.

Lisa before she quit drinking.
Lisa before she quit drinking.

At 47 years old, I had to face my demons and quit drinking. This was the best thing I have ever done. I turned to sport to help me in my recovery. I trained for a marathon properly and completed it. This time, I was actually proud of myself. I then completed a 200 km, two day cycle for cancer a month after my marathon. This was the hardest two days of my life. But I completed the cycle and have never felt so whole and full of pride.

Living most of my life in regret and shame this was a very unique, yet profoundly uplifting feeling.

Someone jokingly said to me that I was one sport away from a triathlon . So, I decided to take swim lessons. I knew how to swim, recreationally, but not competitively. I researched and found a swim club. Absolutely terrified, I walked into the pool to meet the coach at 5:30 am. I did not have a bathing cap nor goggles. Some lovely ladies lent me some. The coach asked me to get in the pool and swim a length. Halfway through that length he yelled at me to get out of the pool. I was horrified. I said to him that perhaps I should go elsewhere and take lessons first. 

He said “F@#k that! You will learn more with me here in a month then any other place. I like you Lisa. You got balls. You came to a swim club, not knowing how to swim, without a cap nor goggles. Stick with me. You have the right spirit.” This moment remains to be the most proudest of moments in my life. I was terrified going in there that day. I fought with anxiety, with self doubt and my limiting beliefs. But I still went.

Now, I have completed one unofficial triathlon (stupid covid got in the way of training and races). I organized a two day cycle in memory of my friend who passed of cancer in 2019. With three team mates, we rode 245 km in two days in the summer of 2020, raising $3,000.00 for two charities.

I am currently training for my second marathon, in hopes of qualifying for the Boston Marathon. I am planning on doing an unofficial half ironman this summer and a full ironman summer of 2022. I can now swim 500 metres without stopping and train 6 days a week.

I have been sober since 2017 and am training to become a yoga instructor with the hopes of opening my own yoga studio. I will also be organizing the charity two day cycle again for my dear friend. I was the sloppiest and laziest of drunks. I am proof that absolutely anything is possible.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

Challenging myself to the point of exhaustion, proving I can overcome the demons in my head.

I have met the most amazing people on my journey as an athlete. Being surrounded with so many inspirational people is my absolutely favorite thing about this. Being with individuals who believe in me and don’t judge but want to see me succeed.

I grew up believing I was worth nothing, that my lot in life was to be the town drunk. I am truly grateful and honored everyday to push myself and try to be like these awesome individuals.

And being able to run faster than my sons. Hahahahaha

What is you “why?”

I have two sons and a husband. They are my everything. They all had to endure my addiction for years. No child or husband should have to see their mother or wife act the way I did. I was trying the best that I knew how, but it came with consequences. 

I had been given no skills to be an adult, let alone a mother. I use to daydream about being sober, wanting them to be proud of me, instead of ashamed or disappointed of me. My oldest son grew up to be an addictions counsellor and my youngest grew up as a drug addict, but is now in recovery. My addiction shaped their lives. I have a great deal of guilt over this but am beyond blessed that they have both grown up to become wonderful men. I could not be more proud of them They have both told me how proud they are of me, and I cannot express in words how meaningful that is to me. My husband has stayed by my side no matter how bad it got. He could have and perhaps should have walked away but always fiercely believed in me and saw something in me, that I could not. 

I imagine everyday about completing an ironman and having them at the finish line. This is what keeps me going when I want to quit. My oldest is getting married this summer to a beautiful women. I couldn’t be happier, and knowing that my grandchildren will never meet drunk Lisa, but will only know me as a healthy athletic grandma. That I will be able to enjoy them and hopefully be a role model to them. These are the reasons I will achieve my goals.

What is your favorite training gear or equipment?

A swimming cap and goggles. Hahahaha

What’s next?

Marathon sub 4 hours, half ironman, full Ironman, become a yoga instructor.

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

BELIEVE YOU CAN!!!!!!!!!!!

Continue ReadingLisa Austin
Derek Schuler
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

31

Where do you live?

Omaha, Nebraska USA

Instagram

Tri_dad_derek

What is your history with sports and athletics?

Prior to triathlon, I had no experience with sports or athletics. The moment in my life that really opened my eyes and flipped the switch was being told at 25 that if I didn’t change my lifestyle and lose weight that I would wind up with diabetes before I was 30. So my wife started to sign us up for some 5k’s, 10k’s and a half marathon at the end of that summer as a goal. Little did we know that would lead to triathlon for the both of us.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

The camaraderie. I love being able to show up to an event, not know a single person and walk away with new friends that I just spent the day competing against. Over the last few years I have gained loads of new friends and teammates. My physical health has improved significantly, my mental focus has skyrocketed. I’ve lost a ton of weight, improved my overall performance.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

Over the last few years there have been some obstacles to my training mostly family life and work. With myself, my wife, and two of my kids all training for races it takes a lot of careful planning for us each to get our training in.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

Participating in triathlon has helped me to overcome being overweight. 

What is your “why?”

At first my why was to just lose weight, but it has since evolved to beat myself every time. To go further and faster. To prove not only to myself that I can do it, but also to show my kids that with hard work anything is possible.

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

Absolutely love my Quintana Roo PRThree triathlon bike.

Do you have a favorite race or event?

My favorite event is the Dakotaman Triathlon, it was my first race and will always be my favorite.

What’s next?

Ironman 70.3 Des Moines. If that goes well then maybe more half Ironmans.

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Set goals, push yourself and even when it feels like your going to collapse, give up, etc. just keep going. You can do anything!!!!

Continue ReadingDerek Schuler
John Hill
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

51

Where do you live?

Wichita, KS

Instagram

@icttriguy

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I grew up playing soccer from 6 until college. Then life happens and it got away from me. At 47 years old, I was 459 pounds and nearly dead from obesity and sleep apnea. I was fortunate enough to discover triathlon and it changed my entire life.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

Challenging myself to be better every day. It doesn’t always happen by any means, but they drive and the desire is always present. After 3 years in the Tri world I’m 230 pounds lighter and a whole world away from the former life I lived. I’m no longer depressed and angry at the world. I’m a coach and mentor to some fantastic athletes and I am entirely different person now.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

Huge challenges came from ther weight. When I started, I hadn’t ever swam a lap in a pool. I hadn’t ridden a bicycle in 20+ years and couldn’t run a block. My body was in such bad shape that I thought I’d lost my mind even trying the sport and most everyone else thought I had, too. 

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

It has helped me grow as a human being as well as get my weight under control and help me believe in myself again. It’s also fueled my passion for helping anyone that wants the assistance to become a better version of themselves.

What is your “why?”

My why has evolved somewhat. When I started it was easy, I didn’t want to die!.. more it’s changed more into a desire to help people believe that anything is possible if you are willing to work hard enough to achieve it

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

Definitely my bike. I spend an enormous amount of time on it. I ride a Kuota KFactor. With a small fortune worth of modifications to improve the weight and aerodynamics.

Do you have a favorite race or event?

Probably Eagleman 70.3 Cambridge Md. It was my first Ironman brand race and my first official 70.3 so it’ll always hold a special place in my heart.

What’s next?

There are several races coming up this year. Starting with Texas 70.3 in Galveston, Eagleman in Maryland and Redman in Oklahoma City. And then my first attempt at the full ironman distance in November at Ironman Arizona.

Any fun facts about yourself?

I have a BB right between my eyes that has been there for over 40 yrs.. a public service reminder that BB gun fights aren’t very smart.

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Don’t be afraid to fail while you learn. Grace can be very tough to give ourselves, but we must learn to have some. We all have to progress at our own pace, never judge your progress against anyone, but yourself. This is a journey into ones inner self and you will learn a ton about who and what you are. Give yourself time to grow into the person you want and need to be.

Any other comments or stories you’d like to share?

I’m an IronmanU certified coach and also a student in college at 51 years old, never give up on your dreams, sometimes it takes us decades to find and achieve them.

Continue ReadingJohn Hill
Gerard Turbitt
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

68

Where do you live?

Omagh, N. Ireland

Instagram

gt633

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I was not very sporty at school [I was very short-sighted] and it was only after I returned to Omagh after university and now married that I got caught up initially with the running craze in the early eighties, [I ended up doing 4 x marathons all under 3:30 in 1982-84].

Then I heard of triathlon. The only problem was that I could not swim … so I joined a local Swimming Club of young kids and in 6 months I had learnt a stroke of sorts.

In those days triathlon in Ireland was a very embryonic sport, distances were not specific, most races were pool based and if outdoor swims, they were in Speedos only as wetsuits were not allowed [ water temperature is not very warm in Ireland ,even in summer].

I thoroughly enjoyed the challenge for the next 2 years entering many races in Ireland but after 2 years I became very busy with work [Dentistry] and family and my “sporting life ” came to an end. Apart from an annual skiing holiday and an occasional pool swim I did very little formal exercise or training.

By 2010 and after a skiing holiday that ended badly , I could hardly walk with a very sore back, scans of which were not good in that I was told I may need surgery. So instead I went to the gym ,slowly got stronger until 2011 when I saw a flyer for a local Sprint Triathlon and the seed was sown. I had to give it one more try.

I practiced my open water swimming for 2 weeks, got a loan of a bike the night before the race [I had never used cleats before in my life] and turned up not knowing what to expect.

The race was not uneventful in that I nearly quit in the first 100m as I had never swam in a mass start before but I settled down eventually, then onto my strange bike all was good until I got stuck in one gear but undeterred I eventually finished … not in a very fast time, but I was hooked.

The next couple of years I dabbled at it around work doing Sprint and Olympic races all over Ireland and was even lucky enough to qualify for Ireland at the European Age Group Championships in Austria in 2014. I thought this had to be the zenith of my “sporting career.”

But at the back of my mind was the lure of the longer distances, so in 2015 I decided that as time was not on my side so in the space of 3 months I did my first Double Olympic race, then a 70.3 [half Ironman distance ] and finally my first Full Distance Ironman in Copenhagen [aged 62] in just under 12:30. As I crossed that line I was elated but all I could say was, “never ever again.”

Not very long after I got home I realized I was missing the training and so I made the impetuous decision to quit my work and enjoy the next few years [ not like my father who died young and my recently deceased younger brother] and spend the next phase of my life doing something I really enjoyed.

I decided I needed the help of a coach so I approached a friend for help with my training and looking for a nice “easy Ironman” to do. All he said was “let’s make it big & scary.” So I knuckled down to a consistent training regime [not only swim/bike/run but strength work in the gym, Pilates, yoga, regular massage and as important as anything a good diet and plenty of sleep].

This resulted in me doing 4 x Ironman races in Lanzarote and Wales in both 2017 and 2018. Anyone who knows of these races will know they are in the top 10 of the hardest Ironman races. I had qualified for the 70.3 World Championships as well in South Africa in 2018 as well. In fact I did this 70.3 race in Port Elizabeth on 2nd September only to return home to Ireland, then over to Tenby, Wales within 24 hours to complete Ironman Wales the following Sunday [9th September] and I had won my Age Group. My goal was finally achieved.

I had qualified for Kona in 2019.

Again for those that know, this is as good as it gets for any long distance AG triathlete. My goal was to go there and just enjoy the experience, which I did. It’s a very special place for sure as the island fills with 2,400 athletes especially in the days leading up to race day.
In some ways Kona is not as tough as Lanzarote/Wales but mentally I had to dig very deep to cross that line [what makes it so hard is the humidity, wind and heat especially for this very pale Irishman]. My goal was to finish in the top 10, and this was achieved by finishing 8th in my AG.

I am afraid it can only be downhill from here……..

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

I just love the challenge and without doubt I have met and have friends through triathlon at home and all over the world now. It gives me a purpose to get up every day to the point there is hardly a day I don’t do some training. I need my endorphin hit every day.

Without doubt my proudest moments were in Wales qualifying for Kona and then crossing that line in Kona and Mike Reilly calling out “Gerard, You are an Ironman.”

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

I have recently finished my new “Pain Cave” … where I can now go and do my own thing in peace … love it ..and I can even display my medals, etc. that were previously hidden away in boxes. The motivation that I need!!

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

Like us all, in 2020 our biggest challenge has been and still is Covid-19. I had planned to do Ironman Austria in July 2020 but as the pandemic got worse, this was cancelled so I consoled myself by making this a fallow year to allow some recovery as I had worked very hard for 3 full years. I reduced my training load somewhat but unfortunately mid summer 2020 my heel became sore. This has turned out to be my first ever chronic long term injury, I have plantar fasciopathy. After many frustrating months this is now slowly improving and my goal is to be racing again in the latter part of 2021 [I plan to race at Challenge Roth in September].

What is your “why?”

“Why do I do it” …. I often ask myself that. The hardest part are those first steps out of bed when the alarm goes on a dark cold winter’s morning.

After my session is over I know why!!

It’s doing something I love and I am so grateful every day that I am able to do it.

Long may it continue.

Do you have a favorite race or event?

As I was leaving Kona, I looked out of the plane window thinking I will never be back. But I would love to race there again. This would mean qualifying again but here’s hoping my body is as willing as my head.
My target is 2023/24. Triathletes are always excited to enter a new age group. I will be 70 in 2023.

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Regards to triathlon or for that matter any realistic goal [small or big] you set yourself, nothing is impossible. Start with small steps. Enjoy the process. Join a club for the company and the advice so many are willing to share.

And remember BIG AND SCARY challenge yourself!!

That decision to retire was one of the best decisions in my life!

P.S. I never had that back surgery!

A favourite word of mine from Kona is Ohana [Family] …. all my triathlon friends.
Triathlon is Ohana to me.

ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE

Continue ReadingGerard Turbitt
Chris Brewer
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

38

Where do you live?

Tampa, Florida

Instagram

@cancertoironman

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I was an All-American Punter and Placekicker in Division 2 football at Wingate University. Having played soccer my whole life as goalkeeper I tried a new sport my senior year of high school and it worked out well. I received a college scholarship to kick a football. Still one of my biggest shocks in life.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

The confidence and peace that comes with pushing your body to its limit and beyond. Having spent years as an alcoholic it’s been truly amazing to see my body change as I’ve pushed it well beyond its limits in a positive way.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

Five years ago I was diagnosed with cancer. Not only was this an obstacle in itself, I abused alcohol to cope and that began the biggest downward spiral of my life.

Has your participation in sports helped you overcome any major life obstacles?

Absolutely. Crazy to say that cancer truly saved my life. Triathlon became my addiction, Luckily this addiction is controllable.

What is your “why?”

I have 3 amazing daughters and a wife that should have left me 100 times over. I’m never going back to the life I had before

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

I have to say it’s actually my road bike. I sold a Breitling watch that I had earned at work to buy my Specialized Venge road bike after I was cleared of cancer. That was the first step on my road to recovery and will always be the prized possession that put me on the road to triathlon and sobriety.

Do you have a favorite race or event?

Right now it’s Augusta 70.3 as it’s the farthest distance I’ve completed. After September it will be Ironman Chattanooga.

What’s next?

The Full Distance triathlon. I do also want to see the scale say 200. My heaviest was 270 and I haven’t been under 210 since high school. It’s not that big of a deal but will be fun to see when I get there.

Any fun facts about yourself?

I’m from Greenville, SC and Charlotte, NC. 0-15 years old in Greenville and 15-30 in Charlotte. I just claim the Carolinas as my home town. lol

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Run, Swim and if you don’t have a bike, take a spin class. Get moving. Find someone to do it with. Google clubs in the area. Seek help. Just do something. It’s so cowardly to get lost in a bottle. Still so upset with the amount of life I lost looking for fun at the bottom of the bottle.

Any other comments or stories you’d like to share?

I’m always open to help out. Message me on Instagram. I’d love to chat.

Continue ReadingChris Brewer
Susan Lyons
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

43

Where do you live?

Pella, Iowa USA

Instagram

@mslyons7207

What is your history with sports and athletics?

In 2003, I found myself extremely overweight after having four children and a miscarriage in the midst. Prior to that, I had been a high school and college athlete as well as a 14 year veteran of coaching. On September 03, 2012 I decided I was done not being able to do all that I wanted to do in life.

I started my journey to be a better version of myself with running and participating in local 5ks, 10ks, and eventually couple half marathons.

In 2017, I turned 40 and decided to face several fears head on, including heights and swimming. So, I jumped out of an airplane, took adult swimming lessons, and signed up for my first sprint triathlon. I cried before entering the water. In my mind, I could not ever catch my breath or find the courage to conquer the demons in my mind surrounding the water. But day after day, I kept getting in the water.

I did my first sprint, then another, and then signed up for Madison 70.3 the following June followed by Waco in October followed by signing up for Ironman Wisconsin.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

Choosing to be an athlete has been one of the best decisions of my life. It has taught me humility, respect, diligence, sacrifice, and grit. I have found a new found love of myself by becoming an athlete. Despite still being overweight, I love myself. I appreciate what my body has been able to do. Being an athlete has help shape my mind and create a growth mindset and to celebrate the small wins when they come and don’t sweat the losses or setbacks.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

Part of me is starting to believe that my entire life is about overcoming challenges and obstacles. For nearly a decade, I was dealt with one big blow after another when I stared my health journey. Some of the greater challenges include the death of my mother in 2009, a miscarriage in 2009, the diagnosis of my youngest son with non-verbal autism and an intellectual disability, the death of my brother in 2016, and the death of my father in 2017.

My most recent obstacle was getting Covid in late 2020 and having my training sidelined for several weeks/months as my body tried to find a way to recover from such a bizarre virus.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

I attribute all of my success and drive from being an athlete.

What is your “why?”

I want to live.
My mother died at 58.
My brother died at 45.
My dad died at 69.
I am 43.
I want to live.
I want to live for my children and my children’s children.
I want to live for my husband.
I want to live for my friends.
I want to live for my students.
I want to live.
I want to FULLY live.

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

Do you have a favorite race or event?

I will never ever forget Madison 70.3 and my favorite races will always be the Klompen Classic in my hometown and the Des Moines Marathon and Half Marathon.

What’s next?

Des Moines 70.3 and Ironman Wisconsin

Any fun facts about yourself?

I am legally blind in one eye. I love tacos. I love Jesus.

Any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Just keep moving.

Continue ReadingSusan Lyons
Ryan Rhoades
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

36

Where do you live?

Harvest, AL

Website

Rocket City Church

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I began swimming competitively at the age of 11 and quickly discovered that I had a natural ability for the sport. By the time I was transitions from high school to college I was an 8 time state champion, ranked in the top 5 nationally in 2 of my events, and received the National High School Swimmer of the Year award. I accepted a swimming scholarship to the University of Tennessee, where I would qualify for the 2008 Olympic Trials. I would never get to compete in 2008, however, because I would retire from the sport rather abruptly by 2006…

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

I enjoy competing. I enjoy training with others. I love being able to track my progress and the focus that training brings. Some of my favorite moments are when I am on a long swim, run, or ride by myself- I get to use those moments to convene with God- and through sport my faith is strengthened.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

After I quit swimming I quickly started chasing other things that I had always missed out on- such as concerts, partying, drinking, and eventually- drugs. For nearly all of my 20s I was addicted to heroin and meth. I was in and out of jail, constantly involved in violence and criminal activity. That lifestyle wore me down and after almost a decade of living that way I didn’t want to live any longer. I made a plan to end my life if I made it to 30. God was gracious by sparing my life through many overdoses and I would find my way to a Christian based rehab for men at the age of 29. It was there where I surrendered to Christ- and after some time with sobriety- I dared to enter the world of sport once again.

Has your participation helped you overcome any major life issues?

Doing triathlons does more than keep me sober. It is bigger than that! But not so big that my identity is found in it- as was the case when I was a competitive swimmer. As a Christian first- triathlon simply acts to balance out my life and strengthen my faith.

What is your “why?”

God has blessed me with a family, he has helped me to restore relationships I thought I had completely broken, and sport has become an important part of my lifestyle and is vital in maintaining a homeostasis in my life.

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

My favorite piece of gear is my Trek Domane SL 6. Biking is the most foreign to me of the the 3 disciplines in triathlon. I enjoy the learning curve ahead of me with cycling.

Do you have a favorite race or event?

I am currently training for sprint triathlons but plan to make the jump to Olympic distance the second half of the year. A big goal is to compete at nationals by next year.

What’s next?

Next is a good nights rest and then an early morning swim followed by an intense track workout- and I am pretty pumped about it!

Any fun facts about yourself?

I have been blessed and privileged to be apart of a new church called Rocket City Church– where I get the opportunity to be apart of the worship teams and cultivate healthy friendships and relationships.

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

It can be overwhelming- especially when it comes to gear. Start small- in all aspects- with race distances, training goals, and gear. Give it a year and decide if it is a lifestyle that you want to be apart of and how much time you want to dedicate to it before you go hiring a coach and getting a $10,000 bike.

Any other comments or stories you’d like to share?

I never want someone to feel like I am forcing my beliefs into them. My faith in Christ has so drastically changed my life that I can’t help but tell others- and I know that all don’t believe as I do- and that ok! I hope that if anyone is curious about triathlon, swimming, or their faith that they feel comfortable reaching out to me.

Continue ReadingRyan Rhoades
Ronny Jansson
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

43

Where do you live?

Sweden

Instagram

@cyklarforlivet

My name is Ronny. I am 43 years old and I live in Sweden. This is the story of how cycling changed my life…

I was born with two clubfeet and have undergone surgery 23 times since I was born. I have never been able to stand, walk or run without experiencing incredible pain. My most recent operation was in 2017. For two years it seemed to have been successful, but in recent months, the pain in the right foot has started to come back. So 2 months ago we took out all the screws, So now we see if that helps or not. If not, the next step will be another operation. We have also discussed the possibility of amputation in the future, but whether that will happen now or at a later stage, we will see.
Not being able to move much, gaining weight was pretty easy, and in April 2016, I weighed in at 121 kg (nearly 270 lb). I did not like what I saw in the mirror, so I thought to myself: “I have to do something, because I can’t look like this anymore.” I was ashamed of how I looked and I had no strength in my body.
 
 
 
But how should I go about it?
 
I can’t walk, I can’t run… There were too many “I can’t”. Just when I thought I’d exhausted all possibilities, I came up with the idea that I could maybe try and ride a bike.
 
I first started cycling in April 2016 on my old bike, A 10-year old, three-speed men’s bike. I rode 800 km (500 miles) on it. Then I got the opportunity to buy a racer from a friend and that’s when I really fell in love with cycling. And no matter how much I rode, it didn’t hurt my feet. Around about the same time, I began to think a little more about what I ate: I started having smaller portions and I put more vegetables on my plate; no huge sacrifices, but I thought a little more carefully about what I was feeding my body.
The bike rides became longer and longer and the kilos started to drop and after only seven months on the bike and around 4,000km (2,500 miles) I realized that I’d lost 30 kg (66 lb) in weight. I cycle around 6 to 8 hours a week around 200 km (125 miles), Last year, I cycled over 6,000 km (3,750 miles) outdoors. I have now been cycling for 5 years and am up at 600 rides and almost 23,000 km (over 14,000 miles).
Last year I cycled my first Vätternrundan (the world’s largest recreational bike ride, which is 300 km – 175 miles). I felt incredibly nervous when I was on the starting line, but as soon as I started pedaling, the nerves left me and the adrenalin kicked in. If I were to try and describe that experience in a few words, I can only say that it was absolutely magical and the most fun thing I have ever done in my life. I will definitely cycle it again – I really enjoyed my ride around the lake (Editor’s note: Lake Vättern is Sweden’s second largest lake) and cycled the entire race with a smile on my face. It was an incredible experience and fortunately, when I reached the finish line, my feet weren’t hurting.
 
Thanks to cycling, I have had the good fortune to meet a lot of wonderful people and companies who have really helped me in different ways. One company that stands out for their support is Stolen Goat. A few weeks ago they did something completely incredible…
Then they named a jersey after me! In their latest collection, It feels incredibly big and I am incredibly proud to be a part of their story. So now you can buy a Ronny jersey on their website and it feels very unreal but at the same time incredibly fun and Im incredibly proud of it.
 
 
Thanks to all on SG HQ and the entire Herd for your incredible support 👍. You are awesome ❤🐐.
 
Unfortunately, the most painful moment of my life occurred this year when my beloved mother passed away, far too soon. My mother was everything to me and she was also my biggest fan when it came to my life change and cycling, so for me, it was obvious that I would try to cycle for 24 hours in a row to honor her memory and to try and raise money for the Heart Foundation. Swedish Heart-Lung Foundation Regrettably, after 16 hours of cycling and 348 km, I had to give up my attempt, when problems with a shoulder meant that I could not hold the handlebars anymore. I think mom would have been proud of my effort and I am touched and very grateful for everyone’s generous donations, which totaled an incredible 1,800 US dollars. Next year I will again try to cycle for 24 hours and will start a new fundraiser for another purpose.
I will try to summarize in a few words what cycling means to me.
 
Cycling gives me an incredible freedom which I have never had before. It becomes like a drug I just want to get out on the road, because once I’m on the road, I feel so good and peaceful and relaxed.
 
Cycling has become a refuge from the pain because it doesn’t matter how long or how hard I ride – I never get any pain in my feet from cycling.
 
Cycling has become an incredibly important part of my life and I quite simply can’t see a life without cycling.
 
 
I no longer have to cycle to lose weight; now I just cycle to live.
 
At some point in the future I will get a gravel bike ore a mtb so I can ride longer in the season 👍
 
If someone like me – a near-sighted, handicapped, overweight, dyslexic – can change my life, anyone can.
 
But you have to do it yourself, because no one will do it for you.
 
My journey continues… 
Continue ReadingRonny Jansson
Karen Davis-Morris
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

58

Where do you live?

Pullman, USA

Instagram

@ironmom1962

What is your history with sports and athletics?

Growing up, the only sport I played was basketball because I was tall. No track, no swimming, and biking for fun on the weekends on my stingray. 

Around the age of 50, I delved into running, swimming and biking, none of which I had much experience. My first running event was a local half marathon. At the time, I lived out of town and did ALL of my training for this race on the treadmill! It was a very interesting race having not trained for the elements, but I started and finished to my delight! 

Next I decided I would get a bike – we live in an area where outdoor biking is phenomenal. Biking came easy to me – the first time out though with clip ons was terrifying, but I slowly overcame that fear. 

And finally swimming – NO experience whatsoever! I asked a friend to teach me to swim – he had taught many prior to me, so I was excited to learn. Swimming is hard – and even harder when you kick and kick and kick and don’t go anywhere. My coach said he had never seen anyone kick so hard and not move an inch – he had his work cut out for him. But I was diligent. I went to the pool almost everyday and just swam and swam until I found my technique. 

So, with a half marathon under my belt, a new bike, and my swim technique that I had mastered, I was ready to do my first triathlon! I did a few sprint triathlons and worked my way up to a local 70.3. Goal of course was to start and finish which I did. 

The next year though, I upped my game and said that if I came in first in my age group, I’d do a full Ironman. So, race day came. I was prepared. The race started. Out of the water, and on to my bike. Searching for my age group on other triathletes legs as I approached them on the bike. I never saw anyone in my age group and I thought, holy crap – I must be last. Off the bike and transition to the run. Again, searching for my age groupers – none again – what is going on? Approaching the finish line and beating my time from the previous year! My husband said, you did it, you came in first for your age group! Oh no I thought – I just committed myself to a full! But I was so excited, and at that point, hooked on this lifestyle. 

I trained and completed my first ironman at the age of 50! Five ironman races under my belt with one 3rd place podium finish! As an aside, at the age of 57, I qualified for the Boston Marathon and completed the virtual race last year at the age of 58. This year, I am training for my first ultra – wish me luck!!!

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

I enjoy the lifestyle and the comraderie that you find at the races. Even though people are there to win, the kindness and support out on the course you receive from fellow athletes is amazing! I like to eat too, so training and eating go hand in hand. My health is really good, I don’t take any medications, and only have aches and pains after a long training weekend!

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

During one of my Ironman races, I had a bike crash. I don’t know if any of you have been in one, but it is like slow motion, where you really don’t know what hit you, but you land and slide on your body for what seems like forever. I was ready to throw in the towel – my husband was out on the course and I was looking for emotional support – when all of a sudden my daughter and granddaughter appeared (I had crashed right in front of them). My granddaughter said “grandma KK you have an owie.” I asked my daughter how my wound looked and she said not good so I said what should I do – she said go out and kick some A**. 

So off I went and completed the race.

As mentioned above, training for the Boston Marathon last year was challenging – it was on and then it was off again. I was building up miles, and then ramping down after cancellation. Then I ramped back up because of the virtual race. I ended up with plantar fasciitis which was very painful. I worked diligently on recovery – limiting my running and slowly easing back into it by walking/running. On race day the longest I had been able to run was 15 miles – but I believe with past experience and knowing that you have to dig deep to get through hours of running (and alone for this one) paid off.

What is your “why?”

My why is that I like to challenge myself. I’m fairly self-motivated and competitive and keeping myself challenged and active has helped me to remain healthy – both body and mind!

What is your favorite running gear or training equipment?

I like to run in Mizuno’s, and the swim paddles from ROKA are really great too!

What’s next?

My next goal is to complete an Ultra, starting with a 50K run this coming June.

Any fun facts about yourself?

I have never broken a bone in my body (knock on wood). I am the youngest in my family and the first one to retire (yeah!)

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Start off slow and listen to your body. Becoming fit and strong does not happen overnight. You will have some great days of training and some really crappy ones. You will do some drills that you wonder why the heck you are doing them in your training plans, but its all a part of the journey!

Continue ReadingKaren Davis-Morris
Mark Alderman
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

50

Where do you live?

Barnstaple UK

Instagram

@malderman1970

What is your history with sports and athletics?

My history with sport really began as a boy growing up on hand me down bikes and then graduating to racing locally on the BMX scene in the 1980’s. Surfed and did martial arts through my twenties. I discovered triathlon approximately 2001 and have not looked back. The spark of triathlon happened at the gym after a few friends challenged each other when some event entry forms were found lying by reception.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

Always having a sporty side to me then triathlon has been a natural progression. It has numerous different elements beginning with the three sports of swim, bike, run. But supporting these there is the scheduling of the training around these different sessions required to get you in optimum shape. Then let’s not forget nutrition and sleep – sometimes taken for granted. But do so at your own peril. Ultimately I enjoy the process of getting myself into optimal mind, body and spirit for triathlon.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

Some years I’ve found myself losing the love and this is ok. I see it as my body and mind needing a break. My family doesn’t share the love of triathlon, but are mostly happy for Dad to disappear on his little escapes.

What is your “why?”

Why? Why Anything? I guess it’s the sense of fulfillment that the lifestyle of triathlon brings to my spirit and wellbeing. I’m not sure what I would do without triathlon, but I’m sure something would fill the need. As an active spirit I remain curious as to how I can improve my own situation and share this with the world around me.

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

Favourite gear – currently it’s my trail running kit. Learning the process of going out for longer running sessions and planning nutrition, routes and poles! This kit would be closely followed by my Wahoo Kickr and Zwift – cycling virtual worlds and virtual group sessions in the snugg of my own basement.

What’s next?

What’s Next? I find myself still following a training loading program based on training peaks ATP leading up to The Roc Triathlon in May of 2021. It may or may not happen but I’ve come to realise the enjoyment of the process and not just the end goal. As part of the strength and conditioning element of the training program, and with gym’s being shut, I’ve found myself strolling into Callanetics – and must admit to having a soft spot for David Goggins 😉

Any fun facts about yourself?

As for fun facts about myself you might have to ask my wife and teenage daughters. I find fun in the weirdest of situations apparently. Give me running a coastal path in a storm and I’m made up.

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Don’t get too hung up on self! Triathlon and sport can open up an opportunity to meet so many positive and enriching people.

Any other comments or stories you’d like to share?

Lastly to reflect on my near twenty years of my triathlon journey. I’m now fifty years old and still full of love and passion for sport and the people and experiences that it has brought into my life. There’s no stopping me from continuing to evolve 🙂

Continue ReadingMark Alderman
Patrick Mikesell
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

65

Where do you live?

Salina, Kansas, USA

Instagram

@mikesellpat

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I played baseball as a kid and in school. I raced motorcycles, swam and surfed.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

I enjoy group rides and group swims. I love the camaraderie and the “pack” mentality to push harder, take turns leading and leave no one behind. I also love the solitary peacefulness of running by myself or with my dog, Barkley. (He’s a great running partner…doesn’t talk too much)

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

Cold weather is a challenge for me. I was born and raised in California, so learning to cope with winters in Kansas has been tough. My son Chris, a fellow Ironman and great cyclist, reminds me to “suck it up and get out there!”

What is your “why?”

Around age 50, I noticed my clothes were fitting a little tighter, my stamina and endurance wasn’t what it used to be, and I had a hard time keeping up with my granddaughter. So I started exercising, and it kind of snowballed from there. Now, I exercise six days a week, even while not training for an event. And the events I do often involve family. Kids and grandkids competing together makes for great memories!

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

A pair of running shoes. I love my bike, and I love my swim gear, but my shoes take my head to wonderful places.

What’s next?

My next big race is Ironman Cozumel. It was the site of my first full Ironman on the day of my 60th birthday. I plan to have a couple of sprint distance and a half Ironman before IMCOZ in November, with plenty of training and family time in between.

Any fun facts about yourself?

None whatsoever! Unlike most of the incredible people on your site, I’m absolutely a normal, average guy. I’m amazed and inspired by Matt Russell, Sika Henry, Barb Klotzbach, Jorge Garcia, Angela Wint and Chris Nikic. They have all overcome major obstacles and excel without complaint.

Oh wait! I can juggle.

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Put one foot in front of the other. I remember when I couldn’t run the 3/4 mile to the end of our road. I kept after it, and I improved. I ran my first 5K on New Year’s Day in 2006, and was elated! I never thought I could run a 10K, but I did that, too. 

I completed twelve sprint triathlons in one year, but I was puzzled by the long distance races. I was amazed at the people that had completed an Ironman distance race, and my goal was to finish an Ironman 70.3. I did that, too. Now, I have completed six Ironman races and have signed up for number seven. Be brave. Don’t limit yourself. If you need a hand, look at the end of your arm. You ARE stronger than you think!

Any other comments or stories you’d like to share?

I have tons of race stories, but my favorite was from Ironman 70.3 Texas. The swim was pretty cold and choppy that day, but I finished and came out of the water next to a challenged athlete who was an amputee. Course workers immediately came and tried to help him out of the water. He said, “I’m good. Those people over there look like they need assistance.” He, like Chris Nikic, was just another athlete that day.

Continue ReadingPatrick Mikesell
Jerry Huhn
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

75 3/4

Where do you live?

Upper Peninsula Michigan 

What is your history with sports and athletics?

At age 36, I heard a talk by Dr. Sheehan, an early disciple of running and fitness. I was in mid life crises, gaining weight, 4 kids and a stressful job. After hearing him talk, I went to a health gym at work and ran 20 minutes on the treadmill. Whoopi! Now 50,000 miles later, I’m still running. Along the way, someone dragged me into trying something called a triathlon. Loved it and have never stopped.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

Being with other positive, happy, energetic, likeminded people.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

Getting old!!!

What is your “why?”

Why not? Why doesn’t everyone want to experience the success of accomplishing something physical?

What is your favorite gear or equipment?

None. Love to run and love my bike. Hate swimming so my triathlon wet suit is not on any favorite list.

What’s next?

I’ve had open heart surgery with a bypass, a new valve and a pacemaker in the summer of 2020 so had my race plans put on hold. I was hopping to finish my first Ironman as a 75 year old. Oh well, what’s one more year. I registered for Ironman Wisconsin in 2021.

Any fun facts about yourself?

I love the packers, enjoy a beer or two, shoveling snow and chopping my own firewood.

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

FIND A GROUP OF LIKE MINDED NUTS!!!

Continue ReadingJerry Huhn
Ashley Hankamp
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

37

Where do you live?

Grand Rapids, MI

Instagram

@tri_mom_of4

What is your history with sports and athletics?

I grew up with 7 brothers and sisters so I learned to be competitive at a young age. All of my older siblings played sports and I wanted to be just like them. I played basketball, volleyball, and ran track at a small High School.

Basketball was my number one passion so I went on to play ball at a small Catholic University with my sister that was a year older than me. Not only did we play basketball together in college, but we also participated in track there, too. I ran the 800m dash and did a couple relays and she threw disc.

It doesn’t get much better than having a sister who is also your teammate. We always had each other’s back and wanted to see each other exceed in everything we did.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

I grew up a very shy kid so sports were always my outlet. Sports helped me gain confidence, learn how to be a good teammate, and taught me if I wanted something in life I have to put the work in. I also love how being an athlete helped me connect with others and build relationships with people with similar interests and goals.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

After college, I continued to run and race. After having my first two kids I developed some patella tendonitis in my knee. I wasn’t able to run or race, which was very difficult for me not being able to do something I loved so much.

Faced with the fact that I wasn’t getting any younger, but I still wanted to challenge my body I decided to purchase a road bike and quickly fell in love with cycling. I remember thinking too bad I don’t know how to swim, a triathlon looks like fun.

In 2015 my husband and I were blessed with a beautiful big surprise, we were expecting twins! My twin pregnancy was considered high risk so I did not do any strenuous exercise during the pregnancy, but I understood the importance of staying active. I did yoga and pilates while being pregnant, hoping it would help me have a good delivery and bounce back quickly afterwards. My pregnancy went great and my twins were huge! They were 6 weeks early, but weighed in at 6.5 and 7 pounds.

I gave my body a lot of grace after having my twins because honestly it was physically the hardest thing I have ever done. I remember not being able to do one single push up, but I built back up slowly. I started back with 15 minute HIIT workouts. Then once those felt good I moved up to 20, then 30 minutes.

I work full time as an elementary art teacher so it wasn’t easy to balance work and mom life, but I got good at squeezing my workouts in at the crack of dawn and fell in love with early morning workouts. My goal of doing a triathlon started to creep back into my head once I was feeling strong again.

So in 2019, at the age of 35 I made my New Year’s resolution to learn to swim! I thought to myself, “if I ever want to do a triathlon I have to start now!” I took 6 lessons with one of the teachers in my building who was also the elementary swim coach and I watched a lot of videos on YouTube. Swimming was very slow going and humbling for me. I looked absolutely ridiculous. I could barely swim one length of the pool and had to use a nose plug. There were many times when I just wanted to quit and give up, but every couple of weeks I would reach a new goal and that kept me motivated to stick with it and keep going. I met some amazing and supportive people along the way and later learned to open water swim with confidence.

Then last year I competed in my first triathlons with a small group of friends. Yes they were virtual because of Covid, but I did it and I have fallen 100% in love with triathlons. I worked with my PT who is also a triathlon coach and I completed a Sprint distance and an Olympic distance. I felt so confident and comfortable completing my Olympic triathlon that I signed up for a half Ironman 70.3 this year! I know this is a big challenge for me, but I am a big believer in dreaming big!

What is your “why?”

My why is to be a strong, fearless role model for my 4 kids. I want them to know with hard work they can do anything. And I want to stay strong and active as I age to keep up with them and triathlons are helping me to do that!

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

This year I got asked to join the 2021 Betty Squad. Not only do I love their mantra and their gear, but it has also connected me with so many amazing women. I have learned so much from them. We help to support one another, challenge each other, and hold each other accountable. It is am amazing squad of women.

What’s next?

I am focusing on gaining a lot more race experience this spring and early summer doing some Sprint and Olympic triathlons, but my main focus is my half Ironman. I’m excited and a little scared about this race, but that is the thing about goals they should scare you a little and excite you a lot!!!!!

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Don’t wait just get started! The sooner you get started the sooner you can reach your goals. And don’t worry about that others think, this journey is not for them, just stay focused and keep after it!

Continue ReadingAshley Hankamp
Mike Carbajal
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

59

Where do you live?

Mesa, Arizona

What is your history with sports and athletics?

Going back 41 years ago when I enlisted in the Marine Corps and stepped off the green bus and onto the famous iconic yellow footprints — that’s where I get my mental toughness and discipline!

Going back to my Marine Corps days I have a love-hate relationship with running!

It’s wasn’t until after receiving my Honorable Discharge from the Marine Corps that I developed an excellent relationship with running!

Along with running I’ve always been enthusiastic about working out at the gym as well.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

The ability to step outside of my comfort zone and go for a run and then immediately go to the gym and do my workout. I’ve always been self-motivated!

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

Yes, I’m also a 19 year blood cancer survivor!

I was diagnosed with Stage IV Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma also known as Hodgkin’s Disease.

What is your “why?”

I often find myself saying, “why me?” I was diagnosed with two different debilitating diseases. 27 months ago I was diagnosed with Advance Congestive (CHF) (heart failure and enlarged heart). 

Along the way, I was also diagnosed with Cardiac Amyloidosis (stiff heart syndrome) level 1 and damaged kidneys.

Advance (CHF) And Cardiac Amyloidosis level 1 are two different debilitating diseases. Cardiac Amyloidosis is also known as AL or Amy.

When it comes to being diagnosed with AL there are 4 different levels I was diagnosed with AL level 1.

The reason I’m saying this is that my immediate family have all died at an early age

My Dad died of a heart attack at the age of 55.

My Mom died of complications to diabetes at the age of 59.

My Sister suffered a stroke at the age of 44 and died three years later at a nursing home.

Too many of my family and friends don’t have the the mental toughness and discipline to fight back from adversity. However, I do have love and respect for my family and friends.

Now going back to “why” I was diagnosed with two different debilitating diseases, but I have mental toughness and discipline.

Through all my trials and tribulations, I realize I’m facing adversity head on, but I know I will conquer and prevail.

What is your favorite training gear or equipment?

My elliptical I use on a daily basis and my Fitbit Versa 2.

What’s next?

At some point I’m scheduled for open heart surgery. My cardiologist will surgically implant an LVAD in my chest

An LVAD is a Left Ventricular Assist Device, which is a  bridge to heart transplant.

Any fun facts about yourself?

I never give up on life!

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Yes, never give up on your fitness goals. Take it one day at a time to accomplish your fitness goals!

Any other comments or stories you’d like to share?

I’ve been very adamant about physical fitness and proper nutrition! To accomplish anything in life one needs to step out of your comfort zone!

Continue ReadingMike Carbajal
Peter Giljam
  • Post category:Inspiration

How old are you?

35

Where do you live?

Netherlands

Website

Zoospensefull.com

Instagram

Pipagiljam

What is your history with sports and athletics?

Sports have been important my whole life. I grew up playing soccer until I was 16, when I decided to stop and started dancing instead. I was a breakdancer for about 14 – 15 years, but stopped at age 30 due to shoulder injuries. At the same time, I started cycling and I enjoyed it very much. I lived in multiple countries where running and cycling were a great outlet.

What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?

I can really put my thoughts to rest, which for me, is very important. On top of that, it really helps bring a routine into my life.

Let’s say triathlon brought me back to life. The very first race I did was funny because a good friend of mine asked me if I wanted to do something crazy. She told me I can’t find anybody. Back then I didn’t know her very well. She started to talk about this 70.3 event in Jönkoping. We only had 3 months to train. So I said yes let’s do it… (little did I know how poor a swimmer I was and how terrible I can run after the cycling part) but at the end we didn’t, we skipped it and did it together the year after. Instead, we did an olympic distance race in Stockholm, which gave us an extra 1.5 months to train. My time was 3 hours. I finished but I was destroyed. Two years later I tried again and took 30 minutes off my time. I was surprised how well it went and I was very happy that I progressed so much.

Recently I did my first marathon (ultra). I moved back to The Netherlands this year because I lost my job. I found this group of triathletes and one of the guys wanted to do a marathon before the year ended, so we decided to organize one.

There were 6 of us on the run. The distance covered half the island I’m living on, with 17km  running on the beach. We started at 8:30AM on the beach with low tide. Great running. The start and finish were on the beach. After 6km, the beach stopped and we started on the road to make the full circle back. Unfortunately, I planned the tour. Haha. At 33km we had to go back on the beach to run another 11km to finish. The terrible part was that it just had been high tide. The sand was terrible to run on, it was soft and unstable, but we did it! First time ever to run this distance, which was a proud moment.

Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?

Late 2018, I started to become mentally ill. From when I was born until now I discovered through psychologists and therapists that I needed help. There was only a little bit of energy left to get myself to a professional. I broke down completely which started about two years ago. Panic attacks and anxiety were a very common place. I wasn’t myself anymore, I was scared and afraid of myself. I hopped from psychologist to psychologist to find the right fit for me. I was in a very dark place in that time living and working in Sweden. I went to The Netherlands for some time to see if that worked (my family lives there). It took me awhile to find the right person.

In September 2019 things changed, I found the right fit for me. I discovered that I walked around with mental challenges since my birth. Situations that have happened to me all fell into place when the therapist added everything into a timeline. It was heart breaking and at the same time confronting. It was all just a build up of not knowing how to cope with situations which hurt me. I was afraid and therefore took the easy road which got me into depression. Running away from feelings was in many cases a common situation for me. Till I hit rock bottom. Completely lost, not knowing how to calm my mind. As of today I still wish that I could just shake my head and my negative thoughts are gone.

I started triathlon about 3-4 years ago. Triathlon has helped me drastically. It gave me motivation to keep going. Especially in the past 2 years it has given me the strength to keep going and that life matters. I remember my mom saying to me continuously, “Peter you will hurt yourself training so much,” which I answered, “Mom, I don’t think you understand how my training schedule functions, but I promise to be careful.” Later I explained to her how much effect triathlon had on my motivation to live. If my body physically hurts and I still have to do the last 5km of a half Ironman I’m able to tell myself “COME ON, LETS GO, ONLY A LITTLE BIT LEFT” (while hitting my upper legs forcefully). She asked me what does this have to do with your current mental challenges? I answered, if I can do this physically it will be easier for me to talk more positive and uplifting with mental challenges. Thats the moment she understood why I was training so much.

There are still many ups and downs these days but there is progress. Very slowly I’m climbing back up. Triathlon has a major role in this.

What is your “why?”

The feeling of living in the present moment. I’m a person that has a brain that likes to make overtime. I’m continuously thinking about regrets I have and the what if’s. I’m a perfectionists and everything I do or make has to be perfect (this is actually a never ending story, the end will never be there, it’s work in progress). I’m learning to enjoy the moment. Nothing better is doing this than triathlon. It gives me power and joy. That’s my drive.

Working with animals is another one that gives me a lot of joy. It is my job. I’m an animal behavior consultant that helps zoological facilities and people with pets. When I see “happy” animals I feel full-filled. As you all might know, when you feel good performance goes up!

What is your favorite gear or training equipment?

Before I started triathlon I never knew how expensive this sport was (haha). I had to get all my equipment. I remember that I ran way too long (2 years) on these semi-trail sneakers and I ended up at a chiropractor. He directly said, “GET NEW SHOES.” This was the first time I put my hands on a pair of brooks. I’ve gone to a sport store where they measure your feet and the Brooks GHOST were the best fit. After these shoes I tried some different ones but went back to brooks again. Im currently running on the Brooks Glycerine and I’m loving them!

When I did my first triathlon I used an old bike from a friend of mine. I wanted to try things out. A year later I bought my own bike, a Giant Defy Advanced. I was very happy with this machine but unfortunately it got stolen out of my car. This was 6 weeks before a 70.3 Cascais, Portugal. I only had a small budget but after a good search I found a TT bike from Cervelo. The P2 from 2010. Still have it and am fan of Cervelo since! I love both brands, Giant and Cervelo. In the past I’ve always had Giant mountain bikes. I have a soft spot for these brands.

I use the garming 735xt as my sport watch.

I’m very happy with it although I’m thinking about an upgrade but will stay with Garmin.

What’s next?

With the current pandemic many events have been cancelled. Last year I signed up for the Challenge Geraardsbergen in Belgium which is now in June 2021. They put me on the list for this one but the question is still if this will happen. Due to the pandemic I haven’t signed up for any other race just yet.

At the moment I’m trying to build my strength and get faster with the run (I’m not a runner!). Now the pools are closed here in the Netherlands I’m not able to swim either so I try to focus my training very much on building muscle with resistance bands to better my swim performance. Hope to one day go for a sub-5 70.3.

In the future I want to go for a full Ironman, but dates aren’t set yet!

Any fun facts about yourself?

I have a secret love for trail running. Guinness is my favorite beer. Sleeping in the forest is a side hobby.

Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?

Give it a shot. I promise you it is going to be a life changer. Not only physically but definitely mentally!

Any other comments or stories you’d like to share?

I’ve done quite some events by now. What I discovered is that a lot of emotions come loose when I do so. Before, in, and after. It’s a way out of my current challenges. At the same time, this is sometimes a smack in the face. Whenever I do international events there is nobody of my family or friends (my friends participate the events as well) that cheer for me. This is sometimes difficult. At the same time empowering that I’m able to do this on my own.

The first half ironman was Jönkoping, Sweden. What a fantastic race this was. Not only in the country I was living but the scenery, the swim, the bike ride. I was basically screaming in my mind “I’M THE KING OF THE WORLD.” It was my first big event and I will never forget the moment I passed the finish line crying with joy. I enjoyed the ride! I was hooked on half distances!

Continue ReadingPeter Giljam