The Finish Line is Just the Beginning
by USA Triathlon
2023 Grant Recipient: Dare2tri
USA Triathlon Foundation Pillar: Inspire Pathways To Access and Inclusion
“The Finish Line Is Just The Beginning!” captures the spirit and outcome of Dare2tri’s mission – To enhance the lives of individuals with physical disabilities and visual impairments by building confidence, community, health and wellness through swimming, biking, and running. This year, USA Triathlon Foundation grant funding enabled 25 athletes and five sighted guides to participate in the Learn2Tri beginner camp and complete the Tri It Triathlon in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin in August. For over half of the group, this was their first-ever triathlon finish line. The skills, knowledge, community and confidence gained have inspired many to continue racing and will carry over into all aspects of their lives.
I wasn't an athlete before my injury, but now I am an athlete and a triathlete!
Anh, a 33-year-old female with a spinal cord injury, attended this camp for the first time. Not having done much swimming since her injury, she gained skills and confidence in the water. She also learned how to ride a recumbent bike and push a racing wheelchair. When Anh crossed the finish line of the Tri It Triathlon on the last day of the camp, she reflected, "I wasn't an athlete before my injury, but now I am an athlete and a triathlete!" She loved it so much that she committed to training on the loaned Dare2tri equipment for the next few weeks and went on to complete the Chicago Triathlon Super Sprint race. Anh is now hooked on the sport and looking forward to setting and reaching more goals.
Donor support helps empower individuals like Anh to realize their athletic dreams.
USA Triathlon Foundation Pillar Grants are committed to supporting organizations like Dare2tri that inspire pathways to diversity, equity, inclusion and access.
