This was a very special day for our family! Over five years ago, Mom sustained a life-altering injury that prevents her from running. Chase regretted that he wasn’t able to race with mom (due to his age at the time). Tri for Jimmy provided an excellent opportunity for our family. Mom and Chase were finally able to race together! By offering a super sprint duathlon, Mom was able to compete by walking the short distance run segments while Chase competed in his first adult race. As a budding duathlete, Brody competed in the sprint duathlon. Although Mom and Chase enjoyed starting the race together, Chase hit the course with a strong run. Mom’s love of cycling enabled her to pass Chase on the bike course, but he came into transition shortly after her. Crossing paths with Brody and Chase on the run course delighted Mom as she cheered for them. Both Brody and Chase finished the course with intense sprinting. Walking as briskly as her injury allowed, Mom was welcomed across the finish line by cheering racers and spectators, but the most important finish-line greeter was Gavin. He maintains a helpful, positive, encouraging attitude despite participating only as a spectator. While preparing for the race, we encountered some brand new racers. It was a great opportunity to share helpful pieces of information with them and encourage them on their new racing journey. Experiences like this enable us to recommend this race for new and seasoned racers without hesitation! The venue provided a beautiful, tranquil setting. The volunteers greeted racers with warm smiles and encouraged them throughout the course. The race director patiently guided and supported dozens of first-time racers. Dad always does an amazing job planning for races and loading all the equipment. Perhaps next year, he will join the race course as a first time racer too!
Team AFR 