How old are you?
51
Where do you live?
Wichita, KS
@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.
Awesome Story! Keep living the life you love!!!
Rock star! Thanks for sharing your story!