Matt Miller 70.3

I tried bulking up for several years. I wanted to be huge. Then two women friends told me that muscular build was disgusting. What turned them on what caught their eye was a lean physique like that of Bruce Lee. Several more female friends agreed. After some planning, I set out to undo the work of the previous few years by slimming down. Over the next several years, I lost fifty pounds and became lean. I looked into doing triathlons. Maybe participating in those events would help me maintain that lean Bruce Lee look.

I read about triathlete, model, filmmaker, philanthropist, entrepreneur, Matt Miller. I introduced myself to Matt who invited me to run my first half marathon in Fort Lauderdale. I flew down to meet Matt and others. A few hours after I met Matt, he told me that he believed I had the talent and personality to be more than just a person participating in races. Matt felt I could be elite. I could inspire people and change the world!

Matt witnessed me jump into the Hudson River at the start of my first ever triathlon. Years later, as ABC staffer and Ironman triathlete, Justin Sternberg guided me to a first place finish helping me qualify for the Paratriathlon USA National Championships, which I would win, Matt ran alongside recording the moment and choking up at how far I had come from that initial e-mail. Because of Matt, I have met so many amazing individuals who inspire me and who remain my dear friends. Matt took time to discuss his journey and mentioned many of those very people. I hope you will take the time to read his entry at the link below.

Matt Miller Base Performance

Kimberly's The Selfless Mile

In 2010, I ran my first ever marathon. The Chicago Marathon. Not knowing what to expect and not having proper training, I gutted out 26.2 miles in five and a half hours. I ran the final twenty-two miles with a severely sprained ankle. In 2011, I registered for Chicago again. Surely, I could run faster. It had special significance as I dedicated my race to dear friend, Michelle. I met her while in college. At such a young age, she lost her life to cancer. Through the power of Twitter, several women who worked for Imerman Angels One-On-One Cancer Support introduced themselves and encouraged me to run on Team Imerman. As a result of being a runner and fundraiser for IA, I had access to training with NJOY Racing. Owner, pro Ironman triathlete, Kimberly Shah, welcomed me with open arms. After only twenty minutes of knowing me, she offered to guide me for the marathon.

This is Kimberly's story of that experience. Thank you, Kimberly!

The Selfless Mile

Look Back At Sweet '16

At the start of 2016, strangers continued recognizing me from the Chicago Athlete Magazine cover featuring Wendy and me. Attention and praise make me uncomfortable. This year, I received plenty of both. Instead of discomfort, I found joy.

In February, I joined Keri Serota, Melissa Stockwell, and Levi Kane presenting at a Francis Parker school assembly. 1,000 students and administrators watched in awe as we shared stories of personal triumphs through national and international elite level Paratriathlon and the Dare2Tri Paratriathlon Club. Principal, teachers, and administrators told me how inspiring I was. Keri, whom I have known for seven years, said, “Wow! I had no idea you were such an amazing storyteller.”

In April, Ryan Nord guided me through the BOA Shamrock Shuffle 8K. In June Lindsey Cook was my eyes all weekend at the Dare2Tri triathlon camp. The camp ended with a triathlon where I front crawled the swim finishing in minutes. We hit 26MPH on the bike. A photo of Lindsey and me racing to the finish line appeared in a local newspaper. In August Dan Tun guided me for the Chicago Triathlon super sprint. It was our first race together since Dan guided me to my second straight regional title in 2014. Thanks to Cynthia Shur Petts and Kyna Lenhov for offering me a slot at the August This One Woman variety show. I brought down the house. Having the audience roaring throughout gave me confidence I could do stand up.

September was life changing. Director, Nich Radcliffe, asked me to audition for the role of Greg, a blind character, in a production of the hit classic, Bleacher Bums. Fifteen hours after receiving the sides, I did. I had the great privilege to audition alongside beautiful and talented, Katherine Bellantone, who was part of the cast. I was anxious, but she insisted I did well. Nich offered me the role on the spot. I accepted. The experience was more than I ever dreamed. I was in awe of each actor and crew member on a daily basis. From day one, I felt overwhelmed and out of place. Opening night. Katherine initiated the most significant conversation I have had since Jenna Parker encouraged me to qualify for Paratriathlon Nationals. Katherine inspired me to embrace my greatness and magnificence. She looked into my eyes down into my core and brought me to life. I will forever love and respect Katherine for all she has said and done to change my life in ways she may never realize!

Because of Bleacher Bums, I was interviewed by Janet Davies of ABC7 and Chris DeRosa of WCIU. Doors have been opened for me at Victory Gardens, Prop THTR, Telling Tales Theatre, and 16th Street Theatre to write and perform.

I made my Serving The Sentence debut in September then brought down the house at Is This A Thing Chicago in October. Erica Alansari and Mike Casey guided me for my seventh Chicago Marathon and seventh Boston Marathon qualifier. I inspired grade school children at a assembly and company managers at a corporate gig.

Thanks to Pinnacle Performance Company for sponsoring my marathon and triathlon dreams. Thank you to triathlete, surfer, writer, actress, model, director, Jenna Parker, for being my coach and friend. Thank you for reading this post. Whatever comes my way, in 2017, I hope you will come along for the ride.

6 Reasons To Run Universal Sole Burgers And Beer 5K

I truly enjoy every individual with whom I have been in contact at Universal Sole. Each person has always been welcoming and warm when I have reached out to inquire about a race or event at Universal sole. On July 18, The Burgers And Beer 5K will take place in Chicago. I registered. Here are a few reasons I am excited. I hope you will join me.

I get to run along side lovely, Lindsey Cook.

I will be sporting my Pinnacle Performance Company racing gear.

Shake Shack. Burgers, hot dogs, and wine.

Begyle Brewing. If you love a great selection of beers then I need not write anymore.

Proceeds from the race benefit girls In The Game. It’s tough being a girl. Girls In the Game is a non profit using self esteem, confidence, leadership building to empower girls to get in the game of life. Read more at:
Girls In the Game

The latest selections from Saucony. I love Saucony. I will race in my Cohesion.

Sign up for Burgers and Beer 5K at:

Universal Sole

Melissa Stockwell Races Towards Rio

In the fall of 2010, Keri Serota, then Program Director for Great Lakes Adaptive Sports Association, invited me to join a new organization she, Daniel Tun, and Melissa Stockwell had founded. Dare2Tri. This would be a a groundbreaking nonprofit which works to organize events and assist wounded military veterans, individuals with physical disabilities, and people who are blind/visually impaired. After reading about how Stockwell was the first American woman in history to be wounded in combat when she lost her leg while serving in the Iraq War then worked her way on to the 2008 Paralympics Games, I was inspired to join Dare2Tri just so I could meet Melissa and tell her thank you for serving this country and being an inspiration.

Not only did I meet Melissa Stockwell, I am beyond lucky to call her a friend. This weekend, Stockwell looks to join the beautiful and talented, Hailey Danisewicz on the Team USA Paratriathlon squad which will represent the United States in Rio this year.

Pleas take the time to read how Melissa Stockwell defines herself and life while showing how One Inspires many.

4 Reasons To Run Universal Sole Four Mile Classic

In 2015, I ran in the Universal Sole Twilight 10K. It was a fun experience thanks to race volunteers, store employees, and owner, Joel Feinberg. If the opportunity to run in another Universal Sole event presented itself, I would do it!

On May 19, 2016, Universal Sole presents the Four Mile Classic. Here are four reasons to register.

You run along the Chicago lakefront on a beautiful spring evening.

Proceeds from the event go to Chicago Run, a non profit founded in 2007 to combat childhood obesity through education, nutrition, and exercise.

Something for everyone. You can race it. You can walk it. You can enjoy a post race festival with and amongst your fellow runners.

If you and I have only interacted via social media, this is a great event at which to meet. I registered! I will be wearing my Pinnacle Performance Company “Sexy Isra” orange racing gear.

For more information and to register, please visit:

Universal Sole

3 Reasons To Give To 6 Year Old Kacey's Fundraiser

A young girl named Kacey is running her first ever 5K as part of the Rock CF Rivers Half Marathon And 5K. Here are three reasons I am hoping you take an interest.

1. Kacey is running the 5K to raise money to find a cure for Cystic Fibrosis.

2. Kacey's aunt, Emily Schaller, is the founder of Rock CF Foundation and does so much to educate, inspire, and empower those with CF.

3. Kacey is motivated to do what she can as a runner and fundraiser at the tender age of six.

To read more about Kacey or to donate to her efforts, please visit the following site:

When I Won Paratriathlon USA Nationals

Two years ago today, I had the great privilege of racing for the Paratriathlon USA National Championships in Austin, Tx as part of the CapTex Triathlon. The experience was made possible thanks to my friend and coach, Jenna Parker. The C Different Foundation offered me a slot in the C Different Triathlon in March 2013 for a chance to qualify for USA Nationals. I leaned towards saying no, but Jenna insisted it was better to attempt to qualify and fail as oppose to never even giving myself a chance to see if I was good enough. Although I am not a strong swimmer, I used my strength on the bike and run to storm back from last place out of the swim to coast to a first place finish by double digit minutes thus qualifying for Paratriathlon Nationals. Two months later, I took my spot on the start line with a national title on the line.

Here is a look back to my experience at CapTex Triathlon and Paratriathlon USA Nationals. Thank you Jenna Parker. Thank you to Justin Sternberg for guiding me. Thank you Pinnacle Performance Company for sponsoring me. Thank you Dare2Tri Paratriathlon Club for putting me on the Elite Team. Thank you to my friends and readers.

Dare2Tri Presents Paratriathlon Development Series

This week, USA Triathlon announced a partnership between USA Paratriathlon and Dare2Tri Paratriathlon Club. USA Paratriathlon is a program which is a part of the overall USA Triathlon family. Dare2Tri is a Chicago based club which serves to promote and provide opportunities for injured military veterans, adults and children with physical disabilities, and those with visual impairments to compete in the sport of triathlon while inspiring people in their communities and abroad. The announced partnership is for a development race series which will be made up of four triathlon events during the 2015 season. Up and coming paratriathletes will have a chance to compete for monetary prizes to be offered by Dare2Tri.

For the official press release as well as more information on the organizations presenting this development series, please log on to the following site.

Dare2Tri Athlete Profile: Israel Antonio

After running my first marathon in 2010, I was told of a new paratriathlon club set to begin operating in the Chicagoland area in 2011. At the time, I had competed in two triathlons, both in New York, and I wanted to race in more. After reading about one of the founders, army veteran, Melissa Stockwell who has the distinction of being the first US woman in history to be wounded in combat, I immediately informed Keri Serota that I wanted to be involved especially because this would mean I could meet Melissa. Never did I dream she would become a great friend. I have met some great athletes who have gone on to be some very special individuals in my life. Many of those individuals are mentioned in this blog post which appears on the Dare2Tri Paratriathlon Club site today. Please take a moment to read Dare2Tri's Athlete Profile on Israel Antonio. I hope you will learn something new, fun, or interesting about me.

Dancing With Boulder Stars

In August 2013, I was set to race at the Chicago Triathlon which was hosting the Mideast Regional Championships in the sport of Paratriathlon. One day prior to the race, my friend, Ironman triathlete, set to guide me informed me he was injured and would not be able to guide me for the race. He posted a note on Facebook where one of his friends, Lore Ambrose, who was working the Chicago Triathlon expo read it and immediately walked over to the Newton Running Booth to ask the Ironman triathlete, Don Reichelt, if he could step in to help a gentleman named Israel Antonio. Although he had never guided, he said yes. The next day, he helped me to my first Mideast East Regional title and since then, Don has remained one of my dearest friends.

On Tuesday, January, 27, Don Reichelt will take part in a charity event, Dancing with Boulder Stars to benefit YWCA of Boulder, Co. Just as the TV show, dance instructors are paired with local celebrities to entertain, compete, and fundraise. The event benefits You Women Children All of us, an organization working for human rights, empowering women and girls, and eliminating racism.

I hope you, my reader, will take the time to visit the following links and donate to Don's worthy cause and to learn more about YWCA. If you are in the Boulder area, purchase tickets and attend this wonderful function. Vote for Don who is a great representative for Newton Running, a splendid athlete, and a fantastic person.

To donate to Don, please log on to:


For more on the organization, please visit:

2014: From Boston To Chicago Through Fort Wayne

I entered 2014 with a couple important athletic goals. I wanted to repeat as the USA Triathlon Paratriathlon National Champion in the category for blind and visually impaired men. I wanted to run my final marathon by breaking three hours and thirty minutes. Along the way I would make more memories than I even dreamed possible. As it turned out, I made plenty of memories with some of the most wonderful individuals. As for achieving those goals? 2014 proved to be a year to expect the unexpected.

The lovely Jen Pfaff insisted she and I travel to Boston to run the marathon. What better year to do so than this one. Two months before race day, I suffered one of the first major injuries I have ever had to endure which made training difficult until one month prior to Boston Marathon. Still, my friend and coach, pro triathlete, model, and actress, Jenna Parker insisted I should go. Thank you to Jen Pfaff for being my eyes all weekend long. We had the joy of running with former New Kids On The Block members Joe McIntyre and Danny Wood who encouraged me while back slapping Jen. I met and had lunch with the lovely, Sarah Koenig. I qualified for Boston for the fourth consecutive time. It was not the time goal I had hoped, but it was a race to remember.

In June, I attended the Dare2Tri Triathlon Camp where I met some tremendous individuals who have gone on to be some of my dearest friends. A week before I was to race in the ITU Worlds Chicago Open Wave I learned that I had been moved to the Elite Wave and would represent the USA once more in an international race. Daniel Tun guided me as I struggled in the water and on the technical bike course, however the highlight of the day was when fabulous announcer, Dave Kappas, told the spectators, “Coming out of T2 is Chicagoan Israel Antonio. Israel dominates these streets every year in the marathon so he knows these streets like the back of his hand. I’ll be interested to see his mile splits because he is fast so keep an eye on him.”

In July, I had one of my best bike performances at the Wauconda Triathlon. It was hilly, but my guide, Todd Nelson said I was like the little engine that could where I just kept coming. It was a tough race because a few days prior I had fallen down the stairs then was later injured when my arm smashed into a gate. I managed to get through the race and was set for a return trip to the Mideast Regional Championships.

In August, I raced in fort Wayne for the first time at the Fox Island Triathlon host of the Paratriathlon Mideast Regional. I had won my division in 2013 when the race was part of the Chicago Triathlon. Daniel Tun once again agreed to be my eyes. I met and spent time with the beautiful, Amanda. for the first time ever in the swim, I stayed on my stomach the entire time never resorting to the back stroke. It was the most satisfying swim leg I had ever experienced on route to my second consecutive championship. Before August came to an end, I appeared on a segment of the ABC Chicago news. The second time I had appeared as in June, I was interviewed after the ITU Worlds race. this time it was for the Chicago Triathlon at the end of the month.

In September, I was set to race at Paratriathlon Nationals for the second straight year. Could I repeat as a Nationals Champion? Could I improve on my time from a year ago? A week before Life Time Tempe, I warmed up with my guide, Todd Smith by tackling North Shore Triathlon. 400 meters from the finish, I took a tumble bruising my ribs and forearm. For days I could not run. Three days before Life Time Triathlon in Tempe, I made the tough choice to back out of the National Championship. I hoped doing so would allow me to heal for my next shot at 3:30:00 at the Chicago Marathon. A third segment featuring me air on ABC7 Chicago at the end of September.

In October, Wendy Jaehn and Erica Alansari volunteered to be my eyes for the Chicago Marathon. These beautiful and fast women helped me qualify for Boston for the fifth consecutive time, but my ribs were still so injured that I could only run my third fastest 26.2.

The athletic season concluded having not seen me achieve the goals I set out. I did repeat at the Mideast Regionals, but the other two goals of nationals and marathon eluded me. Injuries and other circumstances prevented me from my goals, but there is always 2015. There is more to do, but I want to thank all those who helped make this year very wonderful. Special thanks to Jenna Parker for always being the fabulous amazing leader who prepares me. Thank you Pinnacle Performance Company for your continued sponsorship. Dare2Tri and Base Performance provided great support too. Thank you to those wonderful friends who guided me during races. There are big things in store for my racing in 2015. There are also pending big announcements for my plays, screenplays, and entrepreneurial ventures which I will share early in January. for now, thank you for reading this post. I hope you will join me for my adventures next year!

Life Time Tempe: Paratriathlon US Nationals

An overdue post on how my 2014 triathlon season concluded the week of September 14-21.

After completing the North Shore Triathlon along side Ironman triathlete, Todd Smith, I took my bruised ribs home to recover. In seven days, I would toe the start line at Paratriathlon US Nationals at Life Time Triathlon Tempe. Breathing, laughing, and coughing were tough. I struggled even more to find my breath in the pool. I could not even run. I warmed up at a ten minute per mile pace. Sharp pain traveled from my foot up to my shoulder. I could not handle the pain for more than one minute. I tried 6:30 pace. For a moment, the pain was less, but soon it proved to be too much. How would I expect to run that fast for 3.1 miles? Would I even make it through 750 meters in the water?

I reached out to Jenna Parker to inform her of my condition. She was understanding and supportive. Still, I felt that I would let down Dare2Tri, Pinnacle Performance, Base Performance, Todd Smith, and Jenna Parker. I could fly to Tempe and see how I felt race morning. I could race and go as far as my bruised ribs and broken body would allow. I could opt to not get on the plane and set my sights on healing up for the Chicago Marathon which I would run in three weeks for Children’s Oncology Team One Step. I wrestled with my emotions. I listened to what Jenna, Todd, and others said as to why I should go or why I should not go. I wanted to defend my title from 2013. I owed it to myself. I could not even jog in place without pain bringing me to the verge of tears. I was stressed out. Thursday morning. One day before I would have to board a plane. I followed Jenna’s instructions. I knew I had her support no matter my choice. Several friends attempted to shame me into “manning up” and racing. After days of pushing and pulling, I informed Jenna that I would not race in Tempe. Even after I told her, I continued debating. I told Todd and the folks at Dare2Tri. I told Paratriathlon Program Manager at USA Triathlon, Amanda Duke Boulet. I was at peace. I was empty.

I woke up in my bed on race morning. I was in plenty of pain. I knew instantly that I had made the correct decision. I could not help, but still think that I let people down by not even trying to race. Yet, I knew in my heart, I was content with pulling out of the race. I had not an ounce of regret. I had Jenna’s full support. In the end, outside of my own opinion, hers was the only other which mattered. It did help that Todd, while disappointed he would not guide me, fully agreed with my decision.

My 2014 triathlon season began abruptly when I was moved from the open wave to the elite start wave for ITU Worlds Chicago in June and it concluded similarly when I was injured at North Shore Triathlon thus unable to compete against the best of the best in the USA. The year’s memories were filled with great highs and with disheartening lows. I am honored that I was able to experience all of them while having Jenna Parker, Dare2Tri, Pinnacle Performance Company, Base Performance, and Team USA on my side. Here is hoping 2015 will bring more special memories of swim, bike, run moments.

2014 Paratriathlon Mideast Regionals

One mile. “Is, if you have a six thirty mile in you, now is the time to run it,” encouraged Don Reichelt, my race guide. I had never met Don until two hours prior to the race. Daniel Tun, my original guide, had been injured one day prior. He posted a Facebook status that an athlete required a last minute replacement guide. His friend, Lore, asked Ironman triathlete, Don Reichelt, working the Newton Running booth at the Chicago Triathlon Expo, if he wished to guide. Don said yes. Don raced me to my first Paratriathlon Mideast Regional Championship.

In 2014, the Paratriathlon Mideast Regional Championships moved to the Fox Island Triathlon in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Daniel Tun would guide me. I arrived in Fort Wayne where I had the privilege to meet Amanda, the beautiful young woman working the front desk. She helped me make my way to the eating area for breakfast. Afterwards, I had the joy of spending the rest of the morning and afternoon with her. It was the highlight of my day. In the afternoon, Dan and I went for an easy ride on our racing tandem. We did not push hard staying at about nineteen miles per hour throughout. We did some pickups reaching thirty miles per hour, but we held it for only a bit before slowing back down. That evening, the members of Dare2Tri went out to dinner at a location recommended by lovely Amanda.

A quarter to five o-clock. Time to prepare. Dan and I had breakfast. Based on some of the drills provided by Jenna parker as well as the work I had been doing with Stacee Seay, I was more confident than I had ever been heading into the swim portion of a triathlon. I was nervous since I am never confident about my aquatics, but I knew that the preparation could help me avoid needing to rely on flipping to my back and resorting to the back stroke as I have always done in every triathlon since I began racing many years ago. I was my usual shivering self as we prepared in the race transition area. I put on my XTERRA wet suit and we made our way to the swim start. A heavy fog rolled in. It was impossible for spectators, athletes, and race officials to see beyond a few feet. Altering to a duathlon was considered, however, the fog was so thick that the bike course would not be safe either. We waited. I forced down some food. Word came that the race would soon begin. Dare2Tri athletes would be the first wave. Dan and I put on our tether and walked into the water. One minute away.

Horn sounded. I put my face in the water. I wanted to vomit. Fear combined with expectations. I was better prepared. I could make it without resorting to the back stroke. Yet, my chest muscles tightened, and doubt settled in. Dan had me take deep breaths. I stroked, but my mind wandered to that point when I would want to flip. I tried relaxing. I wanted to flip. I knew I could not. I should not. I stroked my arms and kicked my legs. “You got it. All day buddy. We can do this all day.” I had a long way to go. that frightened me. The first turn. One third of the way done. I smiled. Each time I exhaled I sounded like a little motorboat. I used that sound and rhythm to my advantage. Dan encouraged me. “You’re halfway to the final turn.” Just then, my chest sank. My legs were tired. I was short of breath. My confidence was gone. Dan grabbed me. “You’re fine. Keep breathing. Keep kicking.” I did not think I could do it. “If you need, flip to your back.” I treaded water for a few seconds. I considered turning to my back. I needed to swim on my stomach. I resumed. The next turn. Just a few hundred meters. A burst of energy lifted my legs. With more confidence and strength than I can ever remember, I powered towards shore. Dan grabbed me. “You just killed it, buddy!”

We jumped out of the water and moved to transition. Stacee cheered us as we prepared for the bike. She and Dan agreed I had finished fifteen to twenty minutes faster than at ITU Worlds Chicago. It was my second fastest swim ever. For the first time ever, I had gone the distance on my stomach. We jumped on the bike. We rolled at twenty-four miles per hour. We pressed by the halfway point of the twenty kilometer course. We pushed hard. the sun beat down. Only minutes away from my favorite discipline. I cramped. We reached a turn. As we made the turn, we stopped pedaling. I flexed my leg and foot. We resumed pedaling after the turn. Feeling better, I pressed hard. Dan told me it was time to pull back as we neared transition. We coasted home.

I put on my Brooks Running shoes, tether, and Pinnacle Performance hat. Run course was hot. My legs hurt. Dan and I rolled through the opening mile. We reached the turn-around. We took liquids. A few steps after the aid station, I cramped up very badly. I ran through the pain. I stumbled to a job almost a skip. I walked for about two steps. I ran. Dan said I was on pace for a triathlon personal best. I needed to go. One mile. We raced home. Fans cheered. I was the 2014 Paratriathlon Mideast Regional Champion!

Thank you Daniel Tun. Thank you Jenna Parker for being my friend and coach. Thank you Dare2Tri, Pinnacle Performance, and Base Performance. Thank you Amanda for being the highlight of my weekend. Thank you Fox Island Triathlon.

Exceptions Journal Interview

Recently, I had the great privilege of being interviewed by the talented, Craig Pearson at Exceptions Journal. A week ago, the finished product was posted on the publication's website. Please take a moment to read it as we discuss writing, athletics, and friendships. Special thanks to my friend, Ashley, who first put me in contact with Craig which lead to this piece. Also, thank you to Pinnacle Performance, Jenna Parker, Paula Radcliffe, Lokelani McMichael, Aaron Sorkin, and Jen Pfaff each of whom is mentioned in this post.

I hope you enjoy it. Maybe you will learn something new about me.

Team One Step Camp Fundraising Deadline

Happy Halloween!! I hope your costume was a smash hit. I hope the tricks and treats you received were to your liking. As you sort through the fun or before you set out for the night's festivities, I turn to you, my reader, to request help so that together, we may send a boy or girl with cancer to the One Step Camp. Children's Oncology yearly summer camp is a place where a boy or girl with cancer can be a child. Doctors cure the disease. Children's Oncology cures the spirit! As part of my running the Chicago Marathon this year, I registered as a charity runner in the hopes I could make a difference for this splendid organization. The deadline to reach my $1,000 minimum is tonight. I am still in need of a large amount to help me achieve the desired goal. Would you be so kind as to donate? Would you please pass along to others who may have interest in offering a donation to assist this amazing non profit?

To donate or to read more, please log on to the following website. Thank you for your time.

Wauconda Triathlon 2014

This is the first of a couple overdue posts recapping a few races from this past season. This is my experience at the Wauconda Triathlon.

There was a chill in the air for the last weekend in July. The sun had not yet risen. The mosquitos were out in force. Left side of my body still hurt from falling down the stairs days prior. Hours later, I met up with my guide-to-be, Todd Nelson. When Todd and I made our way out of the parking lot at the Dare2Tri Thursday afternoon practice to test out our racing tandem for the Wauconda Triathlon, Todd cleared the gate, but I smashed my already injured left forearm into it.

Todd arrived. Sun illuminated the sky. I stripped down to my Pinnacle Performance gear. Todd insisted I relax for the swim. He would get me through it. I knew I had the ability to crush the bike and run. Time to trek over to the swim start. We would be in the first wave.

Starting gun sounded. Todd was excited. I tried to feed off that. Spectators cheered. I took deep breaths. I was nervous. I flipped to my back and started to settle down in the back crawl. It settles me down when my guides give me praise during the swim. Trying to talk, sight, and swim can be tough, but I appreciate that my guides always do this. Todd was not speaking. I tried to remain calm. Why was he not speaking? I needed to hear his voice. After some time, I noticed Todd was side stroking while having one hand on my leg holding on to the tether which was around my thigh. I realized I did not need to hear him constantly talk so long as I found comfort in feeling his hand. Every so often, Todd would express his joy. Todd estimated I was about one hundred fifty meters from the finish. My legs were tired. My arms were too. Because it always takes me so long to get through the 750 meter swim, I usually experience anxiety at some point late in the swim. My legs drag. I question whether I can finish. My guides settle me down. With about one hundred meters to go, I was thrilled that for one of the few times, I had not yet experienced a late swim anxiety.

Volunteers tapped me. Swim was done. We transitioned from swim to bike gear. Energized that the swim was over, I pushed hard. I did not realize the course had so many rolling hills. It hurt. I thought of my friend, pro Ironman triathlete, Kimberly Shah, who once yelled at me late during one of the Chicago Marathons in which she guided me, “I know it hurts. It’s suppose to hurt! Now, run!” I could feel the hills hurting my quads. I thought, “This is why I race.” We hit the midway point. The hills kept coming. Todd laughed, “Is, you’re like the little engine that could back there. You just keep coming and coming pumping those legs. You just don’t quit.” Just then, Todd said to pull back because it was time to coast into transition.

A few days prior to the race, Todd warned me, due to injury, he might not be able to keep up with my running pace. Daniel Tun said he could step in for the run. Todd and I switched into our run gear. “Is, I’m here if you need,” said Daniel. I had mulled it over while on the bike. Todd was enjoying this experience. He kept me calm in the water. We just crushed the bike. I owed it to him to finish what we started.

Hills had done a number on my legs. I started cramping. I had taken fluids while in T2, but that did not help. I ran through it. The cramping soon stopped. I tried pushing through this unexpectedly hilly run course. The sun beat down. We reached the first mile marker. People were passing me. I tried using that as motivation, but my legs did not respond. Finally, I heard someone nearing fast. I decided I would not let that person pass. I picked it up. He kept coming. I pulled away. He kept it up. I did too. We reached the second mile marker. One more to go. Todd and I pushed. That other runner found an opening and raced by me. I tried to respond. We reached a hill. I could not go. I was moving faster than at any point in the run, but it was not enough to make up the gap. Todd said, “Half a mile left. I want to experience your famous speed. Sprint to the finish.” Do I have anything left? It was time to find out. I pressed the pace. todd rejoiced. I kept pressing. I slowed down to make the final turn. Once we straightened out, I resumed turning it on. Todd cheered. We sprinted at a sub six minute pace down the home stretch across the finish line.

Wauconda Triathlon was fun. Thank you Dare2Tri for connecting me with Todd Nelson. Thank you Todd for guiding. Thank you Pinnacle Performance Company for sponsoring me. thank you Base Performance for the nutrition. Thank you Jenna Parker for coaching me!

Chicago Marathon 2014

Jen Pfaff and I turned on to fame Boylston Street. It took every last bit of energy to churn my legs to cross that finish line. Two months prior, I suffered an injury which put my Boston Marathon debut performance in doubt. I was overwhelmed by the hills. Jen was physically beaten from having to drag me twenty-six miles. As pro triathletes Jenna Parker, Jake Shoemaker, and others tracked my run on this day, I had delivered an underwhelming performance. In six months I would run a stronger race at the Chicago Marathon. Having set my personal record at 3:50, I wanted to beat that time in Boston. It did not pan out, however in October, I would run a sub 3:30:00.

My triathlon season never fell into place. My highlight was the Dare2Tri Paratriathlon Camp during the first weekend in June. My swim was good. My bike was so strong, people’s eyes bugged out to see how fast I raced into T2. Less than a mile from the finish line, my friend, Dan Tun voiced his joy that I might actually cross the finish line first. A few weeks later at ITU Worlds Chicago, ITU forced me to wear ridiculous Blackout Goggles for the run portion of the sprint triathlon causing my equilibrium to be off the entire time. In July I was injured again. By the time I defended my Mideast Regional Championship in Fort Wayne, I was more confident in the swim, but my run legs still did not show up on race day. I won my division for the second consecutive year, but I was searching for the performance I knew I could deliver. At a warmup race one week before Paratriathlon USA National Championships, I took a fall bruising my ribs and arm just a few hundred meters from the finish line. The pain so hurt my ribs, I literally could not run for a week. I had to pull out preventing me from defending my USA Nationals title.

A season of heartbreaks came down to one final race. One final marathon. A sub 3:30:00 would be a perfect coda to my marathon career. Erica Alansari, one of Jen Pfaff’s friends, agreed to be one of my guides. My second guide backed out. Jen reached out to another of her friends, Wendy Jaehn, who said yes. When Wendy and Erica agreed to guide me, my goal was a sub 3:30. Yet due to my injury, that would not be a possibility. They deserved me being at my best racing my heart out during my favorite athletic discipline. I was worried that what awaited Wendy and Erica was a performance like the one Jen had to endure from me in Boston.

At race expo, I spent time with Wendy and Jen. I met the lovely Meg Sullivan. I saw friends from Newton Running, Don Reichelt and TJ Luby.

Sunday, october 12. Adding to the chill in the air was my lack of sleep heading into race day. Four o’clock. Time to awake. Five o’clock. Wendy arrived and he drove to the race. The first person we saw was Randy Egge. I enjoyed meeting many of Wendy’s friends. Wendy lead me to the Athletes With Disabilities tent where I ran into friends such as; Mike Casey, Daniel Tun, Lisa Krejcik, and Tommy Cornille. The highlight was seeing the beautiful and talented, Caroline Gaynor. I first met Caroline six years ago. She is one of the most intelligent, wonderful, and inspiring people I know. Almost time. Wendy sounded excited. We were about to go off minutes ahead of the pros.

Wendy lead me across the start line. 26.2 miles to go. She was in awe. We were leading the Chicago Marathon. How many people get to say that? Fans were loud. Six, seven, and ten deep. All for us. I promised to live in the moment. Listen to the fans, embrace other runners’ comments, and take note of how happy Wendy and Erica were. Miles one, two, and three. Here come the pros. The police escort. The helicopters. The TV trucks. Wendy had a front row seat as the pros flew by.

Mile five. Then seven and eight. We reached mile ten. We were slightly under ninety minutes. I would hold 8:40 pace then drop to nine minute pace. Just before Erica joined us, I was swept away by the fans that I ran at an eight minute pace. I pulled back. The midway point. The exchange.

Wendy moved to my right. Erica slid in on my left. It is always tough for me at this point of the race. Charity mile comes quickly and the noise is so deafening that I can never hear my guide even if she is shouting. Mile fourteen. I settled in with Erica. Mile sixteen. Ten more to go. I slowed down. I was leery of running faster. I did not want to find myself miles from the finish with nothing left. I did not want to ruin Erica’s and Wendy’s experience. Mile marker twenty. The beautiful world champion triathlete and marathoner, Hailey Danisewicz spotted me and yelled out my legs were looking sexy. Last year, I went for it at mile twenty-four. Could I do that again. Could I go sooner? I tried. I could not sustain. Only two miles remained.

The buildings were getting bigger. We were getting closer. Timing mat. Two kilometers from the finish. Erica kept me informed at the number of people we were passing throughout this backend of the race. It was time to now start sprinting by them. Wendy said I pushed significantly. Less than one mile. Fans grew louder. Erica and Wendy rejoiced. A half mile left. I kept digging. We turned for home. One final straight-away. Erica and Wendy demanded I push till I had nothing left. As we crossed the finish, the three of us lifted our arms triumphantly. I hugged both women. I was honored that two fast and beautiful women had just taken me through Chicago.

It was my third fastest time fast enough to be a Boston qualifying time for the Blind/Visually Impaired category making me a five time Boston qualifier. I owe Wendy and Erica a better performance. I hope they will guide me when I am healthy so I can show them of what I am capable. Not only do I want a sub 3:30, but now, I want to smash it.

Thank you Jen Pfaff, Wendy Jaehn, and Erica Alansari. Thank you Children’s Oncology Team One Step Camp for allowing me to fundraise to send a child with cancer to camp. Thank you to my sponsor, Pinnacle Performance Company. Thank you nutrition provider, Base Performance. Thank you Jenna Parker for coaching me and for your friendship.

Night Before Chicago Marathon 2014

There were so many words I wanted to write the night before the Chicago Marathon, but in the end, the best I can do is to say thank you to my friends who have supported me throughout this year. Whatever I do on the course tomorrow, I want you to know I will be thinking of you.

Special thank you to pro triathlete, model, actress, Jenna Parker for being a rock star coach, amazing friend, and superstar human being. Than you to the men and women who have guided me on training runs, practice tandem rides, and races throughout the year. As I prepare to toe the start line at my fifth Chicago Marathon, I express all forms of gratitude to Jen Pfaff who stepped up to ensure I had race guides for this 26.2 mile experience by volunteering her friends. I am beyond lucky and privileged that two rock star, beautiful, and fast women will be my eyes. Wendy Jaen and Erica Alansari. Over the years, I have heard so much about both women and their greatness. I would have been thrilled just to meet them eventually, but to think that they will guide me is out of this world spectacular.

For this marathon, I have been lucky enough to be a member of Children's Oncology Team One Step Camp as I have been raising funds to send a boy or girl with cancer to summer camp where he or she can forget about the disease and just be a kid. I have to raise $1,000 to meet my goal and hope others consider donating or passing along the link for others who may wish to donate. I am proud to have been a part of this team and hope to make everyone associated with Children's Oncology proud tomorrow.

Big thanks to Pinnacle Performance Company for sponsoring me this season as well as Base Performance for the nutrition I was able to enjoy throughout the year when training and racing.

It began in 2002 for me when Paula Radcliffe raced into the world record books in Chicago only to step up her game by shattering her own record months later in London. She inspired me to run my first 26.2 and now I am set to run my fifth Chicago and sixth overall.

Dare2Tri Volunteer, Lisa Krejcik

In June 2011, I decided to do my first race with the new paratriathlon club based in Chicago called Dare2Tri. The Executive Director assigned Ironman triathlete, Todd Smith, to guide me for the race. He guided me for the duathlon portion of the event. I had the choice of racing the triathlon or duathlon. After the race, I walked around meeting various athletes and volunteers. One of the ones who stood out to me was the fabulous, talented, and beautiful Lisa Krejcik. She was so nice, warm, and welcoming. She left quite an impression on me and I never forgot her. It tickles me endlessly when I think that as time has continued, I have had the great privilege to see Lisa at many more events. On top of being beautiful and talented, she has a big heart of gold.

Dare2Tri frequently features athletes, volunteers, and supporters on their web site. Today's featured person is Lisa Krejcik. Please take a moment to get to know her by activating the following link. She is quite simply, amazing!