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.
Wonderful article Amigo! It is such an exciting thing to feel as I see all your events unfolding and your success in them. Your training before events have helped me at times to keep going. I am so glad you are continuing to Fight the Good Fight. I am on that path again. And I always wanna try to cook your meals you post. Keep it up Amigo!