Everyone at some point has tried to lose weight either by starting a trendy diet, ordering special drinks or joining a gym. And at some point, you may become discouraged and give it up.
What if your workout routine not only helped you get in shape, but also changed your life in bigger ways? The Tri-Scottsdale Foundation seeks to do just that.
Formed in 2005, the Foundation’s mission is to promote health and wellness through triathlons – sponsoring races and athletes, supporting youth development and producing a weekly radio show, Tri-Harder Radio.
Preston Miller, courtesty of Tri-Scottsdale Foundation
The Tri-Scottsdale Foundation offers group rider or runs every day of the week, as well as many of the same services as other similar entities, such as clubs, teams or coaching companies. All activities are free of charge.
Marc Rubin, foundation president, attorney and accountant, benefited from the hard work of being a tri-athlete.
“He is the poster boy for illustrating how triathlon can change your life,” said Preston Miller, co-founder and director of Tri-Scottsdale Gage Racing. “He has transformed from 300 plus pounds to sub-ten hour qualifying for the Ironman World Championships in Kona.”
Although a very rewarding experience, Miller says there are also challenges.
“It is always challenging to take someone who walks up and says, ‘Gee I think I want to do a Triathlon,’ and try to figure out if they are sincere and dedicated enough to pull it off,” Miller said. “We offer them the resources and support necessary, but they still have to do the work and it is not easy. The reward, of course is seeing them succeed.”
The Foundation does an annual “Tri for the Cure” event, which will be held in October of this year. The event has raised over $150,000 for Susan G. Komen for the Cure over the last four years. A month-by-month list of other race schedules can be found on their website at http://www.triscottsdale.org/triathlon-calendar.php.
