Every athlete has a story…a reason(s) why they’re willing to prioritize the hours of training, get up at o’dark thirty, work on their challenges, be uncomfortable.  I as “Coach” always feel so honored to be on their team & part of their journey.  Some athlete stories are short & sweet, some are longer & more complex.  But ALL are inspiring!  Read Chris N’s story – I dare you NOT to be motivated to take on the world!  Who knows…maybe you’ll even become a sports catalyst for someone else!?!

In Chris’s own words:

“In 2012 I injured my back in a Christmas Day sledding accident.  The injuries were extensive:  a compression fracture in my L2 vertebrae with 70% loss of height, a spinal column fracture & two bulging discs.  My goal was to rehab & avoid surgery (if at all possible) & after 6 wks of limited mobility, I slowly began my journey.

Along the way I found something that changed my life – running!  Now, if you would have asked me before the accident what I thought of running, I would have said, ‘What fool enjoys that kind of thing!’  Well, I started with 5k’s & worked my way up to a half marathon.  I was addicted to running!

In 2020 my oldest son reminded me that I had always wanted to run a full marathon.  One of my fondest memories is crossing the finish line & seeing him finish just 20 min after me (he was a college sprinter, but he showed his support by training & racing with me).

Endurance sports are a great way to find out who you are & what you’re made of.  Initially I had no desire to try a triathlon (I had made it to 45 yrs old without learning to swim).  But just as my son was the catalyst to get me over the marathon hump, I am now taking swim lessons so I can be the triathlon catalyst for one of my son’s friends & my brother-in-law!

My love for endurance sports has become something much bigger & more profound.  I’ve found that they are a great way for me to connect, train, compete with & encourage so many people I know & love!”