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TCSD Conversation by Craig Zelent

 

 

 

 

I have wanted to do this interview for a long time. Life finally slowed down enough for me to sit down and talk triathlon with former TCSD President, Thomas Johnson. It was worth the wait. I hope you’ll enjoy the story behind the man who very successfully steered our club’s course over the past couple of years.

 

 

TCSD Conversation by Craig Zelent

 

Recently I talked triathlon with Tri Club member Deborah Jones. Since becoming a triathlete a few years ago Deborah has already contributed so much to our sport and this year will be no different. Please join me and get to know this very dedicated lady.

 

 

 

TCSD Conversation by Craig Zelent

 

 

I recently talked triathlon with the ultimate TCSD member, Jim Markwell. Jim is a great example of living a healthy triathlon lifestyle with a huge smile on his face. I guarantee you will enjoy getting to know this great guy!

 

 

 

 

TCSD Conversation by Craig Zelent

I had the pleasure recently of talking triathlon with TCSD member Gerry Forman. Gerry won his age group at Ironman Arizona, but he is so much more than just a great triathlete. Read on and you’ll see what I mean.

 

TCSD Conversation by Craig Zelent

In October I had the awesome honor of representing Team USA in Auckland, New Zealand at the Triathlon World Championships with Scott Endsley and his wife, Wendy. We talked triathlon and solved the world’s problems while marching in the Parade of Nations a couple days prior to our races.

 

 

TCSD Conversation by Craig Zelent

 

 

 

I had the pleasure recently of talking triathlon with the TCSD’s very own Beth Walsh. Beth has had a great 1st year as a pro. She began her triathlon career with the TCSD. It’s pretty cool to see one of our friends progress from the very beginning to having huge success at some of the world’s most competitive triathlons.
 

 

 

 

 

 

I recently ran into TCSD member Gina Thomas at a party for a mutual triathlon friend who was celebrating the end of cancer treatments.  Just like Gina was there to support her friend, she is there for so many others.  Please join me in getting to know Gina who wears many hats – Race Director for Ironman California 70.3, wife, mother, daughter, friend and Christian.

 

  

 

 

At a Glance

Summary: A lifelong swimmer, former ballet dancer and Las Vegas showgirl, and Navy veteran, Ann Kelly channeled all that energy into becoming a TCSD Race Director and ER technician who makes the club's beginner races welcoming and fun.

Highlights
  • Swam competitively from age five and danced ballet for over a decade
  • Performed as a showgirl in Reno's “Hello Hollywood Hello” before enlisting in the Navy
  • Did her first triathlon at the 2008 Spring Sprint after Steve Tally's Triathlon 101
  • Serves as a TCSD Race Director, coordinating permits, volunteers, and themed races
  • Became an ER technician thanks to a connection made while swim-buddying a race
Key Takeaways
  • A huge amount of unseen volunteer work goes into every club race
  • Always welcome the last racer across the line
  • Beginner races are where the pure joy of the sport shines
  • You never know who you'll meet when you come out and play with the club

 

 

I recently met up with one of the TCSD’s Race Director’s, Ann Kelly, and talked triathlon.  In a very short time Ann has really become a great ambassador for the club and the sport.  I know you’ll enjoy getting to know this lady.

 

 

At a Glance

Summary: After gastric bypass surgery and a 209-pound weight loss, Bobbie Solomon completed her first triathlon at 50 and transformed her life — becoming a USAT coach and official and one of TCSD's most devoted “pay it forward” volunteers.

Highlights
  • Lost 209 pounds after 2005 gastric bypass surgery and did her first triathlon at age 50
  • A former college springboard diver who returned to the sport and coaches it
  • Became a USAT Level I, Youth & Junior coach and a USAT Certified Official
  • Led the TCSD Beginner Open Water Swim and captained the Oceanside 70.3 bike marshals
  • Volunteers with the Challenged Athletes Foundation at the Malibu Triathlon
Key Takeaways
  • “Anything is possible” if you work hard enough and want it enough
  • Pay forward the help you received by supporting the next newcomer
  • A steady swim buddy can be the difference between finishing and quitting
  • It's never too late to start — or to reinvent your life

 

 

If you have done a local triathlon during the past couple of years, you have come into contact with the TCSD’s Bobbie Solomon. Bobbie is one of those ultimate volunteers. She is all about paying it forward. Please join me as we get to know this extraordinary lady.

 

 

At a Glance

Summary: A Naval Academy graduate and Marine CH-53E helicopter pilot, Ryan Pallas took up triathlon inspired by Pat Tillman, then finished the grueling Silverman Ironman to honor his fallen friend Captain Brandon “Bull” Barrett and launch a scholarship in his name.

Highlights
  • Recruited to the Naval Academy as a Division I javelin thrower
  • Did his first triathlon (Superfrog) in 2010, inspired by Pat Tillman's story
  • Finished the full-distance Silverman in 12:24:29, second in his age group
  • Raced to honor fallen Marine Capt. Brandon “Bull” Barrett and fund a USNA scholarship
  • Deployed to Afghanistan as a Marine helicopter pilot, flying HERO recovery missions
Key Takeaways
  • Good things come to those who work hard and refuse to quit
  • Racing to honor someone can carry you further than racing for yourself
  • A little civilian support means the world to deployed service members
  • Perspective: the freedom to train safely is a gift worth appreciating

This month’s interview was one of those times when I had never spoken to the person before the interview.  I always look forward to meeting someone new and this new person in my life knocked the cover off the ball.  Ryan Pallas is many things and they are all good things.  Among other things, Ryan is a son, a brother, an Ironman finisher, a TCSD member, a Marine and absolutely an American hero.

 

At a Glance

Summary: A pediatrician and prolific marathoner, Laurie Kearney has run a marathon in all 50 states, notched a sub-3-hour PR and 10 Ironman finishes, and never missed a San Diego Rock 'n' Roll Marathon — earning her coveted “Streaker” status.

Highlights
  • Has run roughly 190 career marathons, including one in all 50 states
  • Ran a sub-3-hour marathon (3:02 at NYC) and won the 1997 Long Island Marathon
  • Completed 10 Ironman-distance races, with a 12:12 PR at IM Canada
  • A San Diego Rock 'n' Roll Marathon “Streaker” since the event began in 1998
  • Runs about 70 miles a week and works as a pediatrician
Key Takeaways
  • Consistency over heroics — steady mileage beats chasing big weeks and injuries
  • Endurance can compensate for a lack of natural speed
  • Racing is a wonderful way to see the country and meet unusual people
  • Model active play for kids so exercise feels like fun, not a chore

My wife, Laurie Kearney, has graciously allowed me to interview her. The San Diego Rock ‘n Roll Marathon will be Laurie’s 190th career marathon. Laurie is a Streaker. The only way to learn about her streaking habit is to read her story. Enjoy!

 

At a Glance

Summary: A nurse who took up triathlon in her 50s, TCSD bike coach Linda Rich has overcome colon cancer, a fractured pelvis, and even being hit by a bus — crediting her fitness and the club “family” with her recoveries and qualifying for Age Group Nationals along the way.

Highlights
  • Came from a dance and competitive equestrian background before starting triathlon in her 50s
  • Coaches the Wednesday-night TCSD bike workouts at Fiesta Island
  • One of the first beneficiaries of TCSD Cares after being hit by a bus
  • Recovered from colon cancer and a fractured pelvis, still finishing Oceanside 70.3
  • Qualified for the USAT Age Group National Championships
Key Takeaways
  • Age and ability are no barrier — anyone can do this sport with support
  • Staying fit can dramatically speed recovery from illness and injury
  • A club can become the family you lean on in the hardest times
  • Everyone has something to offer, and everyone deserves to feel welcome

I recently talked triathlon with the Tri Club’s Linda Rich. Linda is currently one of the TCSD’s bike coaches and she has worn many other volunteer hats over the years for our club. Please join me as we get to know this great lady.

 

At a Glance

Summary: TCSD Treasurer Wendy Harp overcame a fear of open water to become a triathlete, left a corporate accounting career to open a Bikram Yoga studio, and beat breast cancer — all while keeping the club's finances running smoothly behind the scenes.

Highlights
  • Raced her first triathlon at the 2000 Mission Bay Sprint despite a fear of open water
  • Completed the half-Ironman “Aitoman” destination races in Tahiti in 2002 and 2003
  • Serves as TCSD Treasurer, managing finances for a club of 3,000+ members
  • Became a certified Bikram Yoga instructor and opened her own studio in Rancho Bernardo
  • A breast cancer survivor now working her way back toward racing
Key Takeaways
  • Never try anything new on race day — especially the open-water swim
  • So much of endurance sport is mental strength and refusing to give up
  • Cross-training like hot yoga aids recovery, resilience, and heat acclimation
  • You're always stronger than your mind tells you

I had the chance to talk triathlon recently with the TCSD’s Treasurer, Wendy Harp.  Wendy does a ton of behind the scenes work and is an integral cog in the finely tuned machine better known as the Triathlon Club of San Diego.  Please join me as we get to know this long time TCSD officer.

 

At a Glance

Summary: A lifelong swimmer and the TCSD's Beginner Open Water Swim Coach, Jonathan “JJ” Jefferson embodies the club's volunteer spirit — coaching nervous beginners, fundraising for the Challenged Athletes Foundation, and launching a beekeeping business that gives back to TCSD Cares.

Highlights
  • Swam competitively for 11 years and raced his first triathlon on Staten Island in 1984
  • Served as TCSD's Beginner Open Water Swim Coach, mentoring many of today's club coaches
  • Rode the 620-mile CAF Million Dollar Challenge from San Francisco to San Diego
  • Runs 20 beehives, donating $1 per pound of honey sold to TCSD Cares
  • Ran for club president and remains a go-to volunteer for the “heavy lifting”
Key Takeaways
  • Helping a beginner conquer their fear is its own greatest reward
  • You don't have to be the fastest to love and give to the sport
  • Supporting causes like CAF enriches you as much as the athletes you help
  • Show up and vote — a club is only as strong as its members' involvement

TCSD Conversation by Craig Zelent (From December 2012)

I had the chance to talk triathlon recently with the Tri Club's Jonathan Jefferson.  JJ's most visible position with the TCSD was as our Beginner Open Water Swim Coach, but he represents the true spirit of the TCSD as he always seems to be there doing the "heavy lifting" as a volunteer whenever needed.  Please join me as we get to know this great guy.

 

At a Glance

Summary: A former Canadian junior-elite triathlete who stepped away from the sport for eight years, Dave McMahon returned inspired by Lance Armstrong's memoir, went sub-9:30 at Ironman Cozumel to qualify for Kona, and now serves as TCSD's Sponsorship Director.

Highlights
  • Grew up racing in British Columbia near the original Ironman Canada
  • Trained with Canada's elite junior team, TriKenetics, in Victoria in the early 1990s
  • Returned to the sport in 2002 after reading “It's Not About the Bike”
  • Went sub-9:30 at Ironman Cozumel 2010 to qualify for the 2011 Hawaiian Ironman
  • Serves as TCSD Sponsorship Director, building two-way value with club sponsors
Key Takeaways
  • “Consistency makes a champion” — but longevity comes from keeping it fun
  • Great Ironman racing is all about rhythm
  • The best sponsor relationships are built on genuine two-way value
  • Don't put everything on the line in a B race or a workout

I had a great time recently talking triathlon with David McMahon, the TCSD Sponsorship Director.  David has been very successful racing triathlons over the years including his finish at the 2011 Hawaiian Ironman.  Please join me as we get to know this great guy who is taking the TCSD to new heights.

 

At a Glance

Summary: A well-traveled British expat and accomplished mountain biker, Matt Sparks turned to triathlon after a scary crash, built the MHS-Works remodeling company with Jim McCann's encouragement, and became one of TCSD's most beloved (and funniest) characters.

Highlights
  • Grew up in a tiny English village and has visited 34 countries and lived in three
  • Raced on Britain's #1 student mountain-bike team and won the Qatar National Duathlon
  • Switched to triathlon after a serious neck injury in a Colorado terrain park
  • Finished Ironman Arizona in 15:55 — with a now-legendary nineteen portapotty stops
  • Founded the MHS-Works remodeling company, encouraged by TCSD president Jim McCann
Key Takeaways
  • There's always someone more talented — taking part and doing your best is what matters
  • Quitting isn't an option; make a plan and grind to the finish
  • TCSD's real value is its people and its nurturing of beginners
  • Your everyday friends who push their limits can be the truest heroes

I enjoyed some laughs recently while talking with the TCSD’s repair guru, Matt Sparks.  Your Tri Club experience is not complete until you have seen Matt make one of his unique appearances at a Tri Club meeting.  Until you get the chance to witness that in person, I hope you will enjoy our conversation below.

 

 

At a Glance

Summary: Paralyzed in a 1990 motorcycle crash, David Lee spent nearly two decades pursuing his Ironman dream — and in August became the first paraplegic athlete to finish Ironman Canada unassisted, in 12:48:43, after four previous DNFs.

Highlights
  • First paraplegic athlete to complete Ironman Canada unassisted (12:48:43)
  • Completed 40+ marathons, including six Bostons, with a handcycle PR of 1:48:20
  • Raced for the USA at the 2008 Beijing Paralympics and medaled at the handcycling World Championships
  • Helped launch the paratriathlon movement, once suing the WTC for the right to race
  • Designed a custom “Parasuit” wetsuit and finished after four earlier DNFs at IM Canada
Key Takeaways
  • Whether a challenge is hard depends largely on how you choose to see it
  • Persistence through repeated failure can turn a dream into a first
  • Faith and a strong support system carry you through the setbacks
  • Advocacy can open doors for the athletes who come after you

I had the pleasure of talking triathlon recently with an old TCSD and church friend, David Lee.  On August 28th David became the first paraplegic athlete to complete Ironman Canada.  David crossed the finish line in an amazing time of 12:48:43.

 

At a Glance

Summary: A lifelong swimmer from an athletic family, Blair Cannon raced Kona twice as a lottery entrant before taking on his biggest challenge — a 21-mile solo swim across the Catalina Channel that raised more than $110,000 for San Diego's Monarch School for homeless children.

Highlights
  • High-School All-American swimmer who competed all four years at UC Irvine (NCAA D1)
  • Did his first triathlon at age 11 and finished four Ironmans, including two Kona lottery slots
  • Swam the 21-mile Catalina Channel in 8 hours 18 minutes, without a wetsuit
  • Raised over $110,000 for the Monarch School and Great Friends Foundation
  • Comes from a family of record-holding athletes and a two-time Kona-finisher father
Key Takeaways
  • When things get hard, focus on what you can control: pace, fueling, and attitude
  • A cause bigger than yourself can carry you through the darkest miles
  • Consistency and good health matter more than a few epic workouts
  • Nature always gets the final word — stay humble and adaptable

I recently talked with Blair Cannon about his recent swim from Catalina to the mainland.  Please join me as we get to know this amazing athlete and even better member of our community.

 

At a Glance

Summary: A former professional modern dancer who toured the world, Darrell Steele found triathlon on a drunken New Year's bet, and has become one of TCSD's most devoted volunteers — leading the Saturday Del Mar ride and serving as a swim buddy who remembers just how hard the swim can be.

Highlights
  • Earned a Fine Arts degree and danced professionally with companies in NY, Europe and LA
  • Took up triathlon in 2004 after a New Year's Eve bet — and backstroked most of his first swim
  • Leads the long-running Saturday-morning TCSD ride from the Del Mar Starbucks
  • A dedicated swim buddy who has helped struggling swimmers finish their first races
  • Ran his first marathon at Rock 'n' Roll Arizona and went skydiving with his son
Key Takeaways
  • The journey matters more than the destination — control your attitude and effort
  • Discipline learned in one pursuit transfers to the next
  • Volunteering gives back more than it takes
  • Don't ramp up for a marathon just 10 weeks out on 6-mile runs

The TCSD is comprised of many great volunteers.  Among the leading volunteers is Darrell Steele.   I had the pleasure recently of talking triathlon and life with Darrell.  Please join me as we get to know this great guy.

 

At a Glance

Summary: After three heartbreaking near-misses — including missing a Kona slot by just 16 seconds at Ironman Utah — TCSD member Brandon Mills refused to give up and finally punched his ticket to the Ironman World Championship at Ironman Coeur d'Alene.

Highlights
  • Discovered his endurance talent running high-school cross country after a BMX-riding childhood
  • Raced four Ironmans, running consistently in the 9:45–9:55 range
  • Missed a Kona slot by a single spot at IM Coeur d'Alene, then by 16 seconds at IM Utah
  • Qualified for Kona at IM Coeur d'Alene 2011 with a 6th place age-group finish and a roll-down slot
  • Trained under coach Jim Vance with support from his wife Sarah and TCSD friends
Key Takeaways
  • Persistence through repeated near-misses eventually pays off
  • A supportive partner can be the difference in chasing a big goal
  • There's no shortcut — “do the work” beats chasing gear and gimmicks
  • A relaxed, plan-focused mindset can unlock your best race

I had the pleasure recently of talking triathlon with TCSD member Brandon Mills.  After a long quest with a handful of near misses Brandon finally secured his slot at the Ironman World Championships in Kona.  Please join me as we get to know this very determined guy.

 

At a Glance

Summary: A true TCSD legend, Tom Piszkin survived being shot at 21, served as club president in the late 1980s, invented the titanium-boom TitanFlex bike, and has coached local triathletes for 25 years — all while earning the nickname “Dr. SPAM.”

Highlights
  • Survived a point-blank shooting in Oakland in 1974 that nicked his aorta and lung
  • Served as TCSD President in 1987–88, alongside triathlon legends like Scott Tinley and Mark Allen
  • Invented the TitanFlex suspension bike, granted U.S. patent #5,747,317 and ridden in RAAM
  • Set a still-standing age-group course record at the 1990 Desert Princess Duathlon
  • Has coached TCSD and UCSD Masters athletes since 1986; known locally as “Dr. SPAM”
Key Takeaways
  • Staying calm and controlling what you can carries you through a crisis
  • Great leaders empower members rather than tightly control them
  • You don't need to run daily — three quality runs a week can be enough
  • Vary your training direction and form to protect your body over the long haul

I have had the good fortune of being friends with Tom Piszkin for many years.  Please feel free to eavesdrop on an entertaining conversation with one of the TCSD’s all-time great legends.

 

At a Glance

Summary: One of TCSD's most dedicated volunteers, Vanessa Homyak played JV football as a girl in high school, found triathlon through a friend in 2009, and now gives back as a swim buddy, bike-workout leader, and raffle queen while chasing her first full-distance Ironman.

Highlights
  • Played JV football as a defensive lineman in high school, along with soccer and track
  • Got into triathlon in 2009 via cross-training for the Breast Cancer 3-Day Walk
  • Volunteers as a swim buddy, Monday-night swim sweep, and monthly-meeting “Raffle Queen”
  • Took over leading the Wednesday-night TCSD Bike Workout
  • Finished Ironman California 70.3 by staying on course rather than taking the cutoff bus
Key Takeaways
  • Let the doubters fuel you rather than shut down your hopes
  • If you're not having fun, it's time to rethink why you're racing
  • Just getting to the start line is half the battle
  • A good workout leader never leaves a rider behind

I recently talked triathlon with TCSD member, Vanessa Homyak.  Vanessa is the ultimate volunteer.  Please read on and get to know this very giving lady.

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