Another Successful Race Day at Ironman Florida 2024
By Coach Joe A few days before the race, a friend asked, “So, what are your goals”? I told him… Have fun, Race hard, Don’t quit, and Enjoy our honeymoon [...]
What if…
by Joe C. Ironman Wisconsin 2024 became a spiritual journey. Of course, there were many challenges that day, both physical and mental, but I felt the need to share about [...]
You never know what you are capable of until you try and challenge yourself
by Jill D. Two years ago as I was driving south on Washington Street in Naperville, I saw the sign for the ET Naperville Sprint Triathlon. I started to wonder [...]
Trust the Process, All the Way to France!
by Lauren M. For the past few years, It's been a goal of mine to run a spring break marathon abroad. Last year, I ran the Rome marathon in Italy. [...]
Whatever You are Going Through, Right Now is Your Ironman
by Christine K. Last fall, I completed an Ironman triathlon after six months of training almost every day. I placed second-to-last in an age group of nearly 40 athletes, finishing [...]
A Podium, A PR, and a Near DNF-Oh My! How Challenges I Faced During 2023 had Different Results
by Eric R. Anyone who has been in triathlon or any endurance sport has heard the phrase, “you can’t control the weather on race day,” or maybe you’ve also been [...]
Almost Last
by Tara G. Whenever I sign up for a race the thought of finishing last runs through my mind. Race days are uncontrollable in many ways, from the weather to [...]
More than a medal… “Epic”
by Joe C. We all have our why triathlon … mine started when i cross-trained to maintain fitness while I rehabbed runners knee. I got in the pool and learned [...]
A life changing journey!
by Vishal K. Ironman Wisconsin 2023 race day is here!! PreRace: I began my day at approximately 4 am, enjoyed a good breakfast, did my warmups, packed all my belongings, and made [...]
The Team
By Michael P. Ironman Finisher I have discovered that in life there is something very unique about the joy that is found in sharing experiences with others. As athletes, we all have [...]
Anthony Cesaretti – You Are An IRONMAN!
Thank you, Coach Joe, for your checking-in text. I'm doing great today. A bit sluggish yesterday, but up and about today doing errands. I followed our race game plan. Your [...]
The beginning of my journey
by Shashwat C. Coming from a running background, one day I just got motivated to up my game and enter the world of triathlon. So far I only had heard [...]
Fewer People Have More Fun During Race Weekend Than I Do
by Chris H. I did my first outdoor triathlon in June 2014. I had to learn how to swim, and had to borrow a bicycle because I did not have [...]
Between the Corrals – The Ironman Experience
by Andrew F. It's pre-dawn and the day is young. The feat ahead seems daunting and impossible for those in the arena and the bleachers alike. The veins are flooded [...]
What if I Become the person I want to see at the starting line?
by David H. I’m training for my next Ironman as my next-level Ironman. My first Ironman finish, Ironman Wisconsin 2021, was one of the most satisfying experiences of my life, [...]
From NEVER to Ironman – Achieving the IMpossible
From "Never" to Ironman - Achieving the (IM)possible by Eric R. It’s been 4 days and I’m still wearing the athlete wristband after my finish at Ironman Maryland. I guess it’s [...]
The Journey – No Zero Days
by Jeff R. Ten years ago I may have been the last person you imagined would finish an Ironman. I wasn’t particularly athletic growing up, including a season of Little [...]
I am an Athlete
I am an Athlete by Nicole C. I am many things. A loyal friend. A devoted wife. A tired mom of two littles. A focused leader at work. But until recently, [...]
My Journey to Age Group Nationals
My Journey to Age Group Nationals by Jeff R. January 14, 2020: l said out loud I was going to qualify for USAT Age Group National Championships After some good performances in [...]
Climbing Hills – Taking on the Cary March Madness Half Marathon
by Jeff R. I love to run hills. That’s a lie. But I love the challenge for running up and down hills, and what it reveals about us as runners [...]
A Story of Redemption and Slaying My Demons
by Laura L. My story of redemption started long before this year (2021). In order to understand it all, I’m splitting it up into chapters so you all can get [...]
My Return to Triathlon at Ironman Eagleman 70.3
By Tara G. We all know how 2020 turned out. When My CT Half ironman race in May of 2020 was cancelled and not offered in 2021 I had to [...]
Finding Balance and Flow within the Journey
by Christa K. It’s been over 48 hours, and I am still trying to process all the emotions and put those into words here after completing my first Ironman 70.3 [...]
Becoming a Swimmer
by David H. I chose to compete in Leon’s Triathlon, June 6, 2021, because of when it was scheduled. At two weeks before Ironman 70.3 Des Moines, the Hammond, Indiana, [...]
Rediscovering the Love of Triathlon
by Jeff R. My first goal was to race with love and to enjoy the day. I wanted to remember why I loved this sport. I wanted to not judge [...]
Stop Tinkering and Start Executing
by Jeff R. I had been a self-coached triathlete for over 5 years. I saw nice progress, finished two 70.3 races, was serious about training, and generally thought I didn’t [...]
IMBC: The One Race That Didn’t Get CANCELLED
by Elena D. What a s**t show! An absolute s**t show with the most prolonged ending ever. I never thought I would see the finish line. As I sit here [...]
7 months to go!
by Tara G. It’s getting real-the workouts are getting longer, my body is feeling stronger. Ironman Wisconsin is officially 7 months away now! Training in the winter in Boston can be [...]
A Change of Course
by Elena D. Dear Boss (a.k.a. Coach Suzy), While I was feeling great at lunch and was under the delusion that I would make it through this shit show with my [...]
How the World of Triathlon Saved My Life!
by Marijo W. When I became a Triathlete, I knew it was a life changing decision. What I didn’t realize is was a lifesaving decision. The “C” Word On March 26th, 2018 [...]
I Carry a Little Suzy On My Shoulder
by Claire B. Shoulder to shoulder, chest deep in the water of Centennial Beach, we stood on the concrete wall and focused on the smiling blonde woman treading water in [...]
I can do ANYTHING! My Journey to The Chicago Marathon
by Debbie B. Running the Chicago Marathon for the first time took 25 years. The dream was born while watching an old boss run the Cleveland Marathon to celebrate his [...]
My day at the Tunnel Light Marathon
By Amy B. WARNING: If you want to run a rain-free race, do NOT sign up for any marathon that I am participating in. Based on true statistics, if you [...]
A Look in the Mirror – my reflection on Becoming an Ironman
by Todd H. It was the summer of 1982 when the thought of trying to be something like a triathlete first came up. A friend at the time, Cam W.and [...]
Just don’t quit – My day at the Mighty Mac Swim
by Bob M. First, I am overwhelmed with humility and gratitude as I look back on the Mighty Mac Swim. For me, the race was a true bucket list accomplishment. Over the [...]
Stuck in Transition
by Brittany E. So there I was sitting across from my new boss discussing what was going well (bedside manner) and what was going less well (efficiency slowed down by [...]
When quitting isn’t really quitting …. the ET Way!
by Kathy S. Hello fellow Triathletes, Yesterday was the first day I actually said those words out loud “I am a triathlete”, after finishing the Olympic distance Tri at the ET [...]
Deciding it was time to get a Coach
By Tara G. January 1, 2019. 2 kids, self-made career, and busy life later I longed to get back to my high school and college track and field team workout [...]
First half Ironman race experience of a lifetime!
by Jennie F. It started as a bucket list idea to complete the full Ironman by age of 40, and I got reminded of this bucket list item as I [...]
My Journey Toward ET Personal Coaching
by Trish S. This was my retirement year. After spending several years as an Illinois state employee and watching new retirees get diagnosed with stress related illnesses with some dying, [...]
Breaking Through at Ironman 70.3 Chattanooga
by Chris H. Without a doubt, my first thank you for Ironman Chatta 70.3 this year must go to Coach Joe LoPresto of Experience Triathlon Personal Coaching Services. My first half [...]
You Take What Race Day Will Give You
By Mike S. I had been looking forward to Ironman Wisconsin 2018 for a year. Some would say I was obsessed with it. Maybe I was. It was certainly one [...]
Dropping the Rope!
By Kim S. About a year ago, I started thinking that a full Ironman may be in my future. But I also knew that, for me, the most challenging aspect [...]
If I can do it, so can you!
by Amy B. If you had asked me 5 years ago which would be more likely – me winning the Mega Millions Lottery or me finishing a marathon (let alone [...]
A Proud Ironman 70.3
by Ganesh P. My wife Latha and I got into running in 2012 to embrace a healthy lifestyle, inspired by my brother Harish and sister in law Aparna. Over the [...]
Writing My Story-Wicks
by Kirsten W. From an early age my dad always told me everything that happens in life is part of your story. Sometimes things are going to happen to further [...]
The most incredible experience – Ironman Louisville
by Jill S. To understand my story, you need to know a little about me to start. Growing up, I was never an athletic kid, I was more on the [...]
Glitter and Grit: The Trials and Tribulations of a First Time Marathoner in NYC
by Amy B. Dedicated to my husband Charlie for agreeing to go on this crazy journey with me and for continually pushing me. To my wonderful coach, Coach Suzy Cerra, [...]
The Long Road Back
By Jayme C. After finishing my first half Ironman in August 2015 and having a fantastic race year overall, I herniated a disc playing touch football with my kids Thanksgiving [...]
Third Times a Charm – Ironman 3X
by Steve B. Before I share my day with you, please allow me to say thank you to several people that were a key part in getting me across the [...]
The Growth Factor
by Maggie W. Today I completed the ET Naperville Sprint Triathlon for the fourth time. This is the only race I have raced each year since starting triathlon in 2014. [...]
6 Leadership Lessons I Learned from Triathlon Training
By Nicki Anderson. CEO. Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce I’m a runner, always have been. Well, at least for the last 35 years. Sure, there were phases while raising my [...]
140.6 Miles of Smiles
by Kendra F. I’m a marathon runner. I’ve been running for years. I even Boston Qualified last year in Chicago. So what’s the next challenge? Well, it had to be an [...]
Don’t Worry, Be Happy
by Maggie W. This past weekend I accomplished my goal of racing in a half Ironman at Racine. However, getting there was not smooth. In fact, my journey to Racine [...]
The Year of First
by Sue S. Around 10-12 years ago I started doing triathlons at the encouragement of a co-worker, who has since passed away. Julie inspired me to "tri." I did and [...]
The Good, The Bad, The Amazing
by Emily O. As I’m sitting on a plane flanked by my mother and sister on our way to Napa for some POST Ironman R&R, I finally had the opportunity [...]
3 Clicks
by John D. 3 clicks? What the heck does that mean? 3 clicks was my comfort, it meant my day was wrapping up and everything for the rest of the day [...]
Racin Fuel
by Laurie S. It was going to rain and I was not happy about it. All week, the weather had predicted anything from a drizzle to a downpour for the [...]
Finding #runlove
by Amy B. I do not like to be told I can’t do something. So when I suggested to my husband last Fall that I wanted to do the Naperville [...]
Being Grateful – My Journey to Ironman Louisville
by Chad B. Five years ago I was standing in the men's department at Sears staring at the clothes rack in disbelief. I knew I needed size 38 pants because [...]
My Journey to Ironman Wisconsin
by Robert D. Looking for a change in my life, I started running about five years ago. When I first started I couldn’t run a block if my life depended [...]
Becoming Unlimited – The Road to Ironman 70.3 Augusta
by Elena D. My journey to Augusta can be summed up with the above two phrases. The first: You are unlimited. You are unlimited came to me through my coach, [...]
I couldn’t help but smile – My journey to Ironman Wisconsin
by Dave J. It’s been a couple weeks since I was standing on the helix looking out over a lake as smooth as glass thinking about what was about to [...]
I’m a Believer – My Journey to Border Wars 70.3
by Dick J. Ok, so have you really ever eaten crow, or had a huge helping of humble pie???? Well this past year I am happy to say that I [...]
Relax on the swim, be patient on the bike, and rock the run – My journey to the Ironman
By Jeff D. How do you write a blog about the last nine plus months of your life? Where do you even start? Where do you finish? Well, I know [...]
Conquering a rain soaked course and crazy run hills at the Door County Half Iron
by Jeff P. I debated about writing a blog post about a race that could have been another one of those races we all tuck away in our memory and [...]
Becoming a Triathlete
by Marijo W. My name is Marijo. I’m a triathlete. I am a triathlete. At times, I still feel weird telling people that. Not only because this is still a [...]
Nutter Butters and Defogger: Never leave home without them!
By Kirsten J. When I started out on my journey to Muncie Ironman 70.3, I had just finished out my 2015 season of a few sprints, and had witnessed my [...]
Team is spelled ET
by Traci K. Coach Joe regularly talks about the world famous ET Cheer Crew and #ETsn80, but I never really knew what that meant until this season. First a bit [...]
What if I could do a Triathlon?
by Elena D. I came to the sport of triathlons in 2014 after watching several Naperville events while working traffic control. I was so moved by the athletes (women specifically) [...]
Who Dares Wins!
by Cathy O. As I reflect on my Ironman race in Arizona, I recall having a plethora of emotions ranging from excitement, doubt, solitude, misery, worry, elation and, of course, [...]
My day at Ironman Arizona
by Bob H. I looked forward to Ironman Arizona every day since deciding it would be my next Ironman in 2013. The only time that excitement waned was during the [...]
Unfinished Business
by Aaron A. When I signed up for my first marathon six years ago, I figured I would start with just doing one and see how it goes. After finishing [...]
My First Half Marathon
by Maggie W. On Sunday, November 8, 2015 I became a half marathoner at the Naperville Half Marathon AND I became an official team member of Experience Triathlon (ET). I was [...]
A Crazy, Emotional, Roller Coaster Run!
by Susan G. After having no desire to race during the 2015 triathlon season, I entered the lottery for the Twin City 10 Mile “Shortcut to the Capitol” on a [...]
My Journey – Don’t Stop Believin’
by Kara R. My journey to becoming an Ironman started about four years ago when my friend Ariel signed me up for my first indoor triathlon. I remember thinking beforehand [...]
Three words I never thought of when I said I’m going to do an Ironman
by Lida K. I’m still taking the whole race day in and thinking I can’t believe it is all over. Really, all those months of training and it is done? [...]
Moving Forward One Buoy at a Time at Ironman Wisconsin
by Drew R. I’m a big fan of pizza. I don’t mean that I like to have the occasional slice of pizza with friends. Because that would mean I’d have [...]
My Ironman Journey
by Sue A. “One foot in front of the other….don‘t walk off the course….let your friends pull you in…..” These were the words that were running through my head as I [...]
Magic Moments at My Second Ironman
by Dale R. After hearing about the fun they have in Kona doing the underwear run, I decided to start out my pre-race fun with the First Annual Underpants run [...]
Inch By Inch We Become Ironman
by Andrea S. I thought my Ironman Wisconsin journey was about recovering from a heartbreak. What I discovered, though, is that my journey was really about conquering my fears and [...]
Becoming a Survivor at Ironman Wisconsin
by Ryan F. The most relaxed race morning I have ever experienced was September 13, 2015. The race that I was so calm and prepared for was Ironman Wisconsin. How [...]
Becoming an Athlete
By Rose R. In July 2007, I weighed 273 pounds. I used food for several years to comfort me as my mom fought cancer for the third time and my [...]
Reflections on My First Half Ironman
by Lida K. Once upon a time on my bucket list I said I would like to complete an Ironman. My husband sort of laughed it off and said, “You [...]
There’s No “I” in Relay Team
by Laurie S. Everybody’s seen the small group of people hanging out in the corner of transition, lounging against the fence and watching the racers struggle by while they have [...]
Can Proper Nutrition Really Make a Difference?
by Amy H. How can two races just three weeks apart have such different results? The races were both Olympic distance triathlons, Pleasant Prairie and ET Lake Zurich. The bike [...]
8 Things I Learned Training for a Half Ironman Triathlon
by Nancy A. Eight years ago, I did my first half Ironman triathlon … on a dare. I had no idea what I was doing. So like any young, confident [...]
Mind Over Matter
by Chris B. I tend to think of myself as a positive, mind over matter person. I truly feel if you can conceive it and believe it, you can achieve [...]
Overcoming my fear of lakes, Part 1
by Jamie G. It was 4:30 am on Saturday, May 19, 2012, and I was being rudely awakened by a panic attack. Not a good way to start a race, [...]
It was a great day
by Richard M. I was not planning on doing Galena this year and only signed up the week before the race. Last time I did Galena in 2013 I did [...]
Boston or Bust
by Jeff P. The life of an endurance athlete is filled with brief moments of exhilarating highs spaced by long periods of tedium, self doubt, misery and a never ending [...]
Running in Circles
by Jim R. It was an interesting road training and running a spring marathon this year and for a time it looked like it would never happen. It started with [...]
Ryan's Story – Time to not be afraid anymore
“Occasionally in life you meet someone that you somehow know will make a difference in the lives of so many people” – Coach Joe Please support Ryan in his quest [...]
No More Chi-bernation!
by Nancy A. There’s nothing like the first running event of spring. For me, it’s usually the Shamrock Shuffle 8k. But the Shamrock Shuffle usually kicks off something else: the [...]
Yes, We Can, Part III
by Alyse K. Athletes train and compete for many reasons - the sheer love of competition, the satisfaction of achieving a personal best, or the feeling of pushing their [...]
I was not going to give in today!
by Bob H. 2014 seems to be the year of the destination race! In April, Pat and I travelled to California with Drew and Laurie for the world famous (and [...]
A Grateful Heart
by Jada B. It’s dawn on Thanksgiving morning. There is already a bit of snow on the ground and apparently this Thanksgiving in Chicago will be one of the coldest [...]
I AM AN ENDURANCE JUNKIE
by Heather G. It was the Saturday before Ironman Wisconsin and things were starting to get real. The months of early morning swims, six hour bike rides (sometimes with drinks [...]
To Prove To Myself I Can
By Amy H. October 12, 2014 … How did I ever get to this day? Seems like a simple question at first, since it’s just a date on a calendar [...]
Ironman Wisconsin 2014 – The Race of a Lifetime
by Laura C. After a year of preparation, 4am wake-up calls, long rides on the weekend away from my family, and numerous other sacrifices, the week of Ironman Wisconsin had [...]
Finishing My First Olympic Triathlon
by Pat C. I’ve often wondered if I would write a blog for this space and if I did, what would I say and where would I start? Start at the [...]
When Things Don’t Go as Planned
by Vicky T. This was going to be "my" year. Having qualified for Nationals by winning my age category last September, I was exceedingly excited to be able to race [...]
Bouncing Back at the Naperville Triathlon
by Bob H. Last year, I ended my triathlon season with the Pleasant Prairie Olympic distance triathlon. In that race, my plan was to swim and bike fairly easy and [...]
Becoming an Athlete
by Sharon K. Two years ago yesterday, the day of the Naperville Sprint Triathlon presented by Experience Triathlon, I started my fitness journey. I saw my profile in a store [...]
Confidence Gained! I am an Ironman 70.3 Finisher!
by Beckie M. Confidence/noun – The feeling or belief that you can do something well or succeed at something/ a feeling or belief that someone or something is good or [...]
Is Triathlon a Team Sport? My Journey to Ironman Racine
by Darryl T. Racine was a stop on the map heading towards Ironman Wisconsin. Leading up to the race a vast amount of training and discussions took place to build [...]
Come Back, v. 70.3
by Laurie P. I was an athlete as a kid, the youngest of six in a Midwestern family. Our Dad, a baseball player in his earlier days, took great pleasure [...]
It’s not always about the race…
by Steven M. Sunday morning I woke up a little later than usual. It was the Sunday after the 4th of July and we were all tired from the weekend’s [...]
Finding Peace at Pleasant Prairie
by Emily O. I knew as soon as I finished my first sprint triathlon in August 2013 that my goal for 2014 HAD TO BE to complete an Olympic distance [...]
Always A Good Day to Tri Hard
by Bill K. I began the season with a terrific Memorial Day race in Traverse City, MI: The Bay Shore Marathon. As the name implies, it’s a spectacular run along [...]
Experience Triathlon athlete Mike Babicz Racing Ironman Wisconsin for Families of Fallen Police
Officer Mike Babicz, a K9 officer with the Maywood Police Department, will complete two long course triathlons in Wisconsin this summer to raise $10,000 for the families of his [...]
Grandma’s Marathon
by Bob H. For a number of years, I have wanted to run Grandma’s Marathon in Duluth, Minnesota. Every report I’ve ever seen about the race gushes about how well [...]
AND I’M BACK!!!!!
by Susan G. This was the best way to return to triathlon!!!! Three years ago I never thought I would be able to do another triathlon. My heart condition caused me [...]
Big Sur: Puppy Kisses and GUs
by Laurie S. I ran the Big Sur Marathon this year. It was an awesome race for my first marathon and I don’t think I could run a better marathon. [...]
My name is Jada … and this is my Galena sprint triathlon story 🙂
by Jada B. I have to say that this particular sprint triathlon, I learned a few years ago, is one of the toughest little sprints out there and it has [...]
Consistent hard work, with a plan, will move you forward
by Bill Jene Two and one-half years ago, I started training with Coach Joe. My goal at that time was to be able to run a triathlon and feel confident [...]
I Choose My State of Mind
by Amy H. Ready or not, January 11, 2014 had arrived. Only 11 days into the new year and it had already been a very long year. I had missed [...]
My First 10K
by Emily E. I never thought I could complete a 10K run race. I started jogging about 3 years ago after we got a dog and walking her got boring. [...]
What are you grateful for today?
by Diane R. What are you grateful for today? That was a post I read on a friend's Facebook page this morning while I was still flying high from completing [...]
Still On Pace for Big Sur
by Laurie S. By now, it’s no secret that I will be doing the Big Sur Marathon in April of 2014. I’m already reading guidebooks and searching for ideas for [...]
My trip to the ITU 2013 World Triathlon Finals race in London 2013
by David Z. It all starts here before I knew I was even going. 2006 I quit smoking then gained weight to almost 300 lbs. I was going nowhere fast, well, actually [...]
Becoming an Ironman
by Jim R. I started on the road to Ironman four years ago, yet it seems like a lifetime ago, without even realizing back then this is where the journey [...]
Staying in the box at Ironman Wisconsin
by Bill K. First and foremost I want to thank Joyce, my wife, and my family for their support throughout this entire process. Also, I want to express my appreciation [...]
140.6 Rocks!!
by Cathy O. Racing is funny at times. There are times when you can’t wait for the race to be here and done and then there are times you can’t [...]
My First 140.6 Ironman
by Dale R. After 10 months of hard training, the time was finally here! I was physically ready and mentally prepared for what awaited me at Ironman Louisville. Heading down [...]
Breaking Through at USAT Nationals
by Kristin B. USAT National Championship in Milwaukee. My A race of the year. I could write about so many great things related to this race, but to keep all [...]
Why Triathlon?
by Tom Z. It all started back in 2003. I was working on an individual as a PTA when I noticed a tattoo on the back of the calf. Unbeknownst [...]
Becoming a Triathlete
by Kim P. Hi Coach Joe! I may have been slow and I may have sold myself short, but I finished the Naperville Sprint Triathlon presented by Experience Triathlon only [...]
The burden of old beliefs
by Erin M. "I can't swim." "I'm not an athlete." I've dragged these old beliefs around like a chain on my leg for as long as I can remember. They are powerful [...]
What an AWESOME first Triathlon
by Nader A. I signed up last winter for the 2013 Naperville Triathlon presented by Experience Triathlon after having been road cycling for about a year. My wife's first comment [...]
I Didn’t See The Lighthouse, But I Did See The Light
by Drew R. When you strip it down to its bare essentials, swimming is pretty simple. One hand pulls you through the water as you lift the other one out [...]
When Dreams Come True
by Tanya L. In 2010, I volunteered at the Ironman Oceanside 70.3. What a fun experience! I decided that day I wanted to complete a 70.3 race. So I bought [...]
Bill and Rob’s Excellent Adventure
by Bill K. and Rob K. This was Bill’s second Racine HIM and Rob’s first. Rob: Dude! Great idea on doing the Racine Ironman 70.3 together this year! Bill: Yeah, thought [...]
Anything is Possible if You Want It Bad Enough
by Rob K. This year’s ET Batavia Triathlon was my second tri and was much better than my first. I cut my swim time in half! I owe that to [...]
My First Triathlon
by Amy H. June 9, 2013 has finally arrived. I have been working toward this day for 1 year and 6 months. I started this journey the last week of [...]
Proving there is always a positive and moving on!
by Kristin B. Yesterday (The ET Batavia Sprint Triathlon) was an amazing race. Coach Joe masterfully executed a well-organized, fun, inviting, competitive race that was supported by many wonderful volunteers. [...]
Our Little Piece of Paradise – Spring Camp 2013
by Amy H. After a long cold winter and with spring just not wanting to make a long term appearance in Chicago, Thursday April 25, 2013 finally arrived and I [...]
An Ironman Mindset
by Jim R. While Ironman Wisconsin isn’t until September 8, 2013, it’s been on my mind since signing up in September 2012. Lately it’s been on my mind more than [...]
The Hill
by Amy H. Saturday started out as just a chilly early spring day, sunny but 35 degrees, with another trainer ride on the schedule. But wait, I scored a half [...]
Breaking Through in Miami
by Kelli Z. Every Thursday at 5:30am I “Run to Become” with Coach Joe and a small group of Experience Triathlon teammates. It is a great way to start my [...]
Second Chances
by Sarah F. Do you believe in second chances? Maybe even third or fourth chances? I do. I shouldn’t even be doing this sport, for all intents and purposes. I am not [...]
I Beat the Miami Heat!
by Susan G. For those of you who know me, I have a ton of enthusiasm and excitement. So I don’t think that there was anyone else from Experience Triathlon [...]
Mount Desert Island Marathon
by Bob H. When I signed up to do the Mount Desert Island marathon, I had not begun training with Experience Triathlon, had not met Coach Joe and had not [...]
Round 3, Aaron: 1, Chicago Marathon: 2
by Aaron A. When I finished my second Chicago Marathon last year, my ET blog post talked about my next challenge being mental toughness during the race. However, I think [...]
MY Olympic Gold Medal
by Tanya L. I would never have thought that two years after dropping out at mile eight of a half marathon because I allowed my inner demons to win that [...]
An Amazing Experience at the Chicago Marathon
by Elliott L. Today I arrived at what I consider the halfway point of a dream that was born in April of this year. Before April I never swam, biked [...]
Staying in the Box at the Chicago Marathon
by Mike L. "Don't start too hard. Don't start too hard. Don't start too hard." I had been working with Coach Joe for six months, and when we went [...]
Falling in at Fort 2 Base
by Sherri H. If you know me, you know I don’t have an overwhelming need to participate in a lot of races. My races aren’t planned out a year [...]
A Different View – Ironman Wisconsin 2012
by Jeff P. A couple of years ago, I wrote a long piece titled An Incredible Ironman Journey detailing the wonderful and emotional journey that led up to the 2010 [...]
On Pace for Big Sur
by Laurie S. I love half marathons. I think it’s a great distance: long enough to feel that you’ve trained for something but not so long that the training or [...]
My Journey to Ironman Wisconsin
by Bob H. My journey to Ironman began in 1978 when I read about these crazy people in Hawaii doing a race that included 2.4 miles of swimming, 112 miles [...]
Move over Ben & Jerry, USAT is in town!
by Judie R. The suitcases are back in the attic, the TriTats are scrubbed off, and it’s the end of another race weekend that was not like any I’ve done [...]
An unbelievable day in Benton Harbor
by Jim L. I think my story of the Steelhead Ironman 70.3 has to begin this past winter, because this offseason laid the foundation for having such a special race [...]
Another medal for the big guy! Vineman 70.3
by Tom S. 8+ months of training have paid off, as I finished the Vineman 70.3 on Sunday, July 15th. I’m happy to report that I finished with a smile [...]
A Great Day to Race!
by Drew R. As I stood on the beach surrounded by nearly two thousand of my fellow triathletes, I was enjoying the feel of sand under my bare feet. As [...]
My Day at Ironman Racine 2012
by Jim R. I had an awesome experience at Ironman Racine 70.3, my first long distance race course. The journey began on Friday when Kevin and I drove up after [...]
OK, it IS a journey, not just a race
by Pete J. We all get into triathlons for different reasons. I got sucked in listening to my sister regale me about her first tri last summer in Charlotte where [...]
A Year of “Firsts” with my Team!
by Laura C. For me, it’s always fun doing events for the first time. 2012 was a year of many “firsts” for me. Since I joined Experience Triathlon and became [...]
GUPPY KLATCH
by Sal D. Tips for Beginning Swimmers from an Overanalytical, Somewhat Battle-Tested, Almost-Beginning Swimmer Human bodies and bodies of water go together perfectly. But only if the body of water is [...]
Half Ironman – Take 2
by Jill A. This year was a success at Racine 70.3 Ironman! What an awesome and grueling day all at the same time. Silly as it may sound, one of [...]
Becoming a Champion in Madison – 2012 ET Summer Camp Recap
by Kelli Z. Well, it is Sunday night at 8pm and I am ready to head for bed. Yes, it is a pretty early bedtime but you have to understand [...]
My First Olympic at the New York City Triathlon
by Tanya L. I’ve always been fascinated with the city of New York. “New York, New York, a town so nice, they named it twice,” as David Letterman says. So [...]
A Half-Ironman Ain’t Half of Anything
by Amanda L. My family recently attended a picnic hosted by some of our oldest friends. In response to my parents RSVP, the host replied, “It’ll be good to have [...]
Live Your Dreams – Ironman Racine
by Bill K. Training for longer duration triathlon events takes a good deal of time and effort. There were 4:30 am morning swims and evening and weekend training in preparation [...]
Thank you 2012! You’ve Been Good To Me!!
by Cathy O. You’re probably wondering why I’m thanking the year already when the year isn’t even over yet, right? While some of my colleagues are continuing on their racing [...]
Spinning Plates at Ironman Racine
by Jeff P. One indisputable fact I have learned from triathlon racing – there is no such thing as a perfect race. There are just too many moving parts and [...]
The Winding Road to Ironman Racine
by Glenn S. What a great feeling to have completed Ironman 70.3 Racine, my first half Ironman. For such a long time the big race seemed so far away. Now [...]
Racing to achieve your goals
by Kristin Bagley Last month I was interviewed by a writer at Chicago Athlete Magazine. This was my first interview and before hand I ran through all the possible questions [...]
Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff
by Wendy H. 102 Degrees. A 55 minute Fartlek workout. And the first Laurie Sweat Test of the season. I get all ready, strapping on heart rate monitor, sunglasses, and hat. [...]
The Best Race I’ve Ever Had
by Natalie H. I was so excited to be going into my first race, Naperville SheRox Tri, after deciding to work with a coach from Experience Triathlon. Thank goodness [...]
How Do You Measure Success?
by Amy H. When I made the decision to lose weight I naturally thought I would measure my success on what the scale told me. For a while I was [...]
Life can take the girl out of triathlon, but it can’t take triathlon out of the girl!
by Sarah F. Pleasant Prairie, here I come! I just realized this morning that it’s been over TWO years since I’ve gotten to race in a triathlon, and this weekend [...]
How Tragedy Helped Me Become
by Kelli Z. On June 10th I participated in the ET Batavia Triathlon. I also celebrated my first year as a triathlete. How does a wife and mother of two [...]
The Comeback Kid – ET Batavia Triathlon
by Amanda L. Since October of 2011, it has felt like rather than focusing on getting faster, stronger, and tougher, my training has been about moderation, control, and self-discipline. Why? [...]
Starting a New Hobby
by Alyse K. In March of 2011 I committed to losing weight and getting back in shape. I started a weight loss program and worked out six days a week. [...]
A Personal Best at Grand Rapids Tri
by Bob H. I was feeling bad about missing the ET Batavia Triathlon and Duathlon and helping my ET teammates run a great event. That was the only bad feeling [...]
A Time to Grow
by Jim R. The Experience Triathlon group shook off the cobwebs of all the off-season training we do during those cold dark days of winter at Galena this last weekend. [...]
A Life Devoted To Kids Keeps Her Young
by Coach Suzy If there is such thing as an "earthly angel", my good friend and loyal client, Kathy Fleckenstein (aka "Flecky") embodies it. I have always said that it [...]
There is no shade in Boston
by Bob H. About a week out from Boston, my friend wrote to say that it was going to be about 80 degrees on race Monday. As the week progressed, [...]
Beating the Beast – Ironman 70.3 St. Croix
by Andy R. Well, the moment I’ve been waiting for. The post-race write-up. Does this mean I finished? You’ll have to read on for that. Does this mean I survived? [...]
From Heartache to Running Princess
by Susan G. 10 months ago I sat in a doctor’s office and heard the results of a series of tests. I was diagnosed with a rare heart condition that [...]
The Next Starting Line
by Amy H. How do you get to the start line at the Chicago Shamrock Shuffle? For me the journey started almost two years ago, although I didn’t know it [...]
My Journey into Triathlon
by Andy R Survive the tide, cruise the ride, enjoy the stride A word of caution before reading this. It’s long. Really long. I’ve decided to write it in one pass [...]
Multisport and Motherhood
by Laura C. My plate is undoubtedly full. I work part-time, have two young kids, a husband who frequently travels internationally for work, an aging parent, and all of the [...]
The Perfect Storm – Ironman Florida 2011
by Coach Joe “Give me one moment in time when I'm more than I thought I could be. When all of my dreams are a heartbeat away and the answers [...]
The Chicago Marathon – My Path Back To Competition
by Darryl T. It is weird how a specialization within a sport can carve the nature of one’s athleticism. I was a gymnast and swimmer in college focusing on strength [...]
I Never Thought I’d Run the Chicago Marathon
by Sue A. Last year, while in downtown Chicago on the way to a meeting for my job, I decided I wanted to run the Chicago Marathon. Now that is [...]
18,132 Seconds of Awesome – The Chicago Marathon
by Amanda L. “Fill the unforgiving minute with sixty seconds' worth of distance run.” –Rudyard Kipling After the marathon, my mom asked my dad if he ever thought about just stopping. [...]
An Answered Prayer – Grand Canyon Rim to Rim
by Kim C. My best friend of 26 years, Dottie, heard about a great challenge: hiking the Grand Canyon from rim to rim in one day. That’s 25 miles! She [...]
My evolution as a runner
by Aaron A. Looking back I’ve been an athlete for many years. I did cross country, swimming, and track in high school and continued swimming/running on my own in college [...]
Running Quietly in Stockholm
by Laurie S. There must be a Greatest Hits For Races collection that arrives in the mailbox of all race directors. Regardless of location, the same music is blaring over [...]
9-11 American Challenge: A Journey of the Human Spirit
by Lynn B. The journey has come to end. A journey that began on 9-11 at Liberty Park, NJ and ended on 9-18 at the Pentagon, a culmination of 530 [...]
I’m a Groupie!
by Jeff P. For those of you just beginning your journey into the world of triathlons or thinking about taking up the mantle of a tri lifestyle, I will have [...]
Age Group Nationals: a Proud and Humbling Journey
by Jim R. “We few, we happy few, we band of brothers; for he today who sheds his blood [sweat & tears] with me shall be my brother...” - Henry [...]
The Big Stage
by Jeff P. “There were six minutes between waves. Six minutes to lean my head back, look up at the sky and find that calm before the torrent storm of [...]
Seaweed, Hills, and Tenacity
My first Olympic-distance triathlon by Amanda L. When I’m talking to my friends, I sometimes forget that they aren’t fellow triathletes, which is why I was frequently asked about my presumed [...]
My Ironman Journey
by Kevin M. Last year was a big year for me! I decided to do my first triathlon longer than a sprint. In December ’09, my sister said, “I signed [...]
Three Years in the Making
by Tyler H. My story starts three years ago (2009) before I met Coach Joe. The prior year, I attended the Naperville Tri with my dad to watch one of [...]
Swim, Bike, Done!
aka, How to Never Miss Seeing Your Friends Finish a Race by Matt B. About 16 years ago I tore my ACL, had it surgically repaired and proceeded to spend the [...]
Finding ME!
by Tina J. I have always thought of myself as a strong person. I think you have to be to move six times in a marriage. But, there came a [...]
Setting a Personal Record at the Naperville Triathlon
by Rafael P. Race day has become routine for me, having done races at all levels from sprint to the Ironman. The HRMS Naperville sprint is a favorite of mine [...]
95th Vierdaagse
by Marge P. “You walk the Vierdaagse because it is there—to see if you can. It’s the Mt. Everest of walking; a 100 mile peak laid out flat and decked [...]
The Climb
by Tanya L. The lyrics to a popular Miley Cyrus song were playing in my head as I reached the turn around for the 5K at my recent Evergreen Lakes [...]
From 3 Miles To 70.3
by Suzy C. “We never truly know who we are unless we push ourselves beyond our known boundaries.” – Unknown My journey began about 14 years ago. I started running for [...]
Beating the Swim Demons at Evergreen Lake Triathlon
by Drew R. Coming into the Evergreen Triathlon, I felt that I had plenty of reasons to be nervous. First and foremost among them was the fact that it would [...]
Pain is Temporary; Pride is Forever!!
by Cathy O. What do the following have in common? Beach, hot weather, a firefighter, yellow painted toenails, and the best cheering section in the world. They all share in [...]
I Started The Race With A Smile
by Sarah F. The race plan was simple. Do this short little run around the lake, for the sole purpose of getting back to my bike. Bike my heart out. [...]
Pleasant Prairie, My First Olympic Tri
by Jim R. My journey into triathlon started a little over a year ago. Knowing that I didn’t know everything, I started a search for someone who did and found [...]
I’m a Triathlete! My Day at the SheROX Triathlon
by Amanda L. The first time I met Coach Joe about 8 weeks ago, I knew that as crazy as my decision was to sign up for a sprint and [...]
Starting The Tri Season Out Right
by Brian V. The Batavia Triathlon has been my first tri of the season three out of the last four years. I’d never really been too serious about my first [...]
BIGELOW IS BACK, BABY!
by Lynn B. After a year off recovering from shoulder surgery, it is great to be back in the saddle (literally) again. The SheRox Women’s Tri was my first real [...]
Leon’s Fastest … Longest Triathlon
by Jeff P. The start of another race season – another chance to test one’s physical and mental limits; to discover a little bit more about whom we are as [...]
Settling The Score At The Galena Triathlon
by Jim L. Wow! What a race weekend. Galena is such a beautiful area. The drive in from Chicago is so cool as you start to feel the hills getting [...]
Speechless in Panama City – The Gulf Coast Triathlon
Words just can’t describe some experiences in life. Even pictures can only do so much when in paradise. As I sit here overlooking the Gulf, watching the sunrise and [...]
This is why I run
by Jillmarie D. Wrestling with restlessness I open the door to my therapy The road and the rhythm of my running shoes. The sound of my heart's constant beat and my breath I run. I [...]
My Journey to Bring Enjoyment to My Running
by Paul W. I recently read Running Within by Jerry Lynch and have now developed my "running statement." I have done this to build a more positive AND ENJOYABLE attitude [...]
Stick to the plan
by Jim R. The decision to compete in the Disney marathon was made months before I even had a relationship with Experience Triathlon and Coach Joe, but joining ET and [...]
An Incredible Ironman Journey
by Jeff P. Lao-tzu has been often quoted saying, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” So began my journey into the world of Ironman [...]
All in the family
by Paul W. Eighteen months ago, my daughter, Sarah, challenged me to join her in a triathlon. “You can do it, Dad, you are in good shape and have been [...]
I am a TRI-ATHLETE
by Holly F. In my life I’ve never thought of myself as an “athlete.” I was overweight for the first 20 years of my life and then up & down [...]
I’m doing this for Lindsay
by Jamie D. I shared this story with Coach Joe on Tuesday and it may benefit someone out there. It is how I came to train for a triathlon, found [...]
Top 10 Things I Learned in Memphis
by Sarah F. 10) Hills + Heat + Hip pain = a helluva hard run! 9) Flying mounts on an uphill bike start are a little tricky. Thank heavens for that [...]
Melting in Memphis
by Jeff P. I have always thought every triathlon race I have participated in was a unique learning experience - an opportunity to discover what it takes to swim every [...]
“Soul”vang
by Holly F. Experience Triathlon Spring Training Camp 2010 As a newbie in the triathlon world, I began seeking out training programs and information, and met Coach Joe through a Master [...]
A Fabulous Freshman Year
by Sarah F. The morning was dark, chilly and foggy, the race site virtually empty when the shuttle bus dropped me off, save for a few race volunteers who must [...]
An Amazing Year
by Jeff P. The Chicago Marathon was the end of a great season of racing both in running and triathlon. It was an ambitious season to get in a lot [...]
I am a runner now!
by Gloria R. Today, I am a much stronger and confident person for having become a runner. I met Coach Joe through another trainer about seven months ago. At that time, [...]
I could run like this all day!
by Judie R. Coach Joe! I did it! 🙂 And while I can't say that every moment was great, the overall experience really was. I wouldn't have done it nearly [...]
Seaweed Monsters
by Jen C. Hey, Coach Joe! Happy Monday to ya! Yup...it was toasty this weekend. I'm sure you can relate, though...it was just perfect for me and Kent. 🙂 Bang's [...]
Breaking Through
by Jeff P. My journey to the Spirit of Racine Half Ironman Triathlon began long before the actual race started. Nine months ago, Coach Joe and I sat in a [...]
Officially Becoming a Triathlete
by Sarah F. THURS – Little over a week to go. Coach Suzy is already working on my schedule for next week…I’m excited to see what race-prep workouts she’s going [...]
A Smile On My Face
by Michelle H. My journey started over one year ago. Last year, around February or March 2008, I decided that I wanted to do a triathlon. After all, I had [...]
Getting My Feet Wet
by Sarah F. I had the brilliant opportunity to get my feet wet, both figuratively and literally, sooner than I expected by experiencing the 2009 Naperville Women’s Tri as part [...]
You are running HOW far today? You must be joking…
by Viki T. September 28th, 2008, dawned crisp and sunny and clear. Good news as today is Berlin Marathon day. I roll out of the hotel bed in my third [...]
The Big One That Didn’t Get Away!
by Jeff P. This was the big one for me – the Spirit of Racine Half Iron in Racine, WI. The adventure began on Friday with traveling up to Racine [...]
Raindrops and Rainbows – Naperville Women’s Triathlon
by Sara B. What am I doing? How did I get here? Can I really do this? All of these questions and more run through my head as I drive [...]
Facing My Demons
by Drew R. On August 12, 2007 at the Naperville Triathlon ET athlete and webmaster Drew R completes his year long journey toward becoming a swimmer and triathlete. It was [...]
Why am I here?
by Marsha H. Ever wonder what triathletes think about during a long, tough race? Here’s a peek into our world as Marsha fights the demons and completes her first Olympic [...]
Tri This for Half-Time Entertainment!
by Sarah K. I’m at what I like to think is the mid-point in my life (53 by USAT standards) and finally have the opportunity to enjoy the half-time entertainment, [...]
An Exhilarating High
by Jeff P. In the weeks before the Pleasant Prairie race, as I was working through the paces of hard workouts on hot and humid days, I found myself praying [...]
I Can Swim!
by Lynn B. I can’t believe it has been a year since my very first triathlon. Last March, after going through a divorce, I needed some goals and direction in [...]
To give anything less than your best, is to sacrifice the gift
by Marsha H. I always felt like I was born with an extra dose of energy. As a child it would get me into trouble at home, in the neighborhood [...]
One of life’s great experiences
Ironman Wisconsin 2006 Swim 2.4 miles, Bike 112 miles, Run 26.2 miles, SMILE for the rest of your LIFE! The Ironman. One of life’s great experiences. Considered to be the most [...]
From Couch Potato To Triathlete!
by Jeff S. I finished my first Triathlon in 1:43:22, not the time I wanted but a very good result for someone who was a complete couch potato only 3 [...]
A transformation in progress…
by Jeff S. Jeff’s journey will ‘touch, move and inspire’ you. He is an amazing guy on a mission. We look forward to hearing more from Jeff as he completes [...]
My First Triathlon Experience
by Katie S. I am writing this on Monday, the day after the triathlon. My triathlon experience didn't begin yesterday. It actually began last August when I decided to "check [...]