How old are you? 44
Where do you live? Newington, CT. USA
Website: https://www.premierfa.com/triathlons
Instagram: festerfest7
What is your history with sports and athletics?
- 25 Time Ironman
- Triathlete
- Multiple Marathons/Road Races
- Multiple Triathlons (all distances)
- Fitch High School Varsity Swimming, Freshmen Baseball
- Central Connecticut State University Swimming 1994-1998
- Hartford Magnet Trinity College Academy, Varsity Girls Soccer Coach, Varsity Boys Basketball Coach, Varsity Baseball Coach
- East Hampton High School JV Boys Basketball Coach
- Classical Magnet/University High School Varsity Swim Coach
- Shuttle Meadow Country Club Swim Coach
What do you enjoy most about being an athlete?
I enjoy challenging myself and being the best athlete that I can be.
Have you experienced any challenges or obstacles?
In 2007 I had a hernia after Ironman Florida. While getting my pre-ob physical my physician noticed bumps on my thyroid. Come to find out I had thyroid Cancer. I am 12 years Cancer free!!! In 2011 I found out I had a 12mm hole in the joint of my right ankle. I had surgery and currently have stem cells in my ankle. From 2001-present I have had my left ankle scoped, right knee surgery, torn ligament in my right hand, and a couple broken fingers. Just a few setbacks! Only missed 2012.
What is your why?
When I grew up I always had a weight problem. I started swimming and found out that I was a distance athlete. I went to CCSU and swam. As a freshman I weighed over 200 lbs. I went back my sophomore year 157lbs. I had started running and lost weight, which made me think why not do triathlons. I was quickly humbled after I would be one of the first swimmers out but I would get caught on the bike and then pick up some spots on the run. I got an Ironman tattoo on my right ankle to remind me it was my goal to do an Ironman. In 2001 I did Ironman Florida. I have now completed 25 and will continue to do Ironman until it is not fun anymore. I was blessed to get a lottery slot to Kona in 2009. This before the legacy program.
What’s next?
Ironman Lake Placid 2021
Any fun facts about yourself?
I have 25 M-Dot tattoos for all of my Ironman races I’ve completed.
Do you have any advice for someone interested in getting started?
Enjoy it! Don’t take yourself too seriously. If you put in the work, it will all work itself out!!!
Any other comments or stories you’d like to share?
My wife has completed two Ironman and while training for her 3rd she found out that she was pregnant with our first son.
