Introducing the Seven Winners of USA Triathlon's 2023 Multisport Lifestyle Awards

John Mitchell (San Diego, California)

This award commemorates Jeff Jewell, a long-time age group Team USA massage therapist who passed away from brain cancer in 2010. He was one of life’s biggest cheerleaders, and the award in his name honors an athlete who gives back to the sport and is a role model to other athletes, particularly youth. John Mitchell has significantly impacted his community over the last 20 years, actively leading open water swims and cycling clinics for the Triathlon Club of San Diego, offering no-drop rides to encourage beginners, and providing bike storage and swim lessons for underserved children. 

Courtesy of John Mitchell

Clarinda Brueck (Washington, D.C., USA)

The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to USA Triathlon and the multisport lifestyle through their performance, leadership, volunteerism, or mentorship. Brueck revolutionized multisport for physically challenged athletes by establishing the PC division with USA Triathlon and ITU. She made history as the first physically challenged woman to complete the Ironman World Championship in 1997 and 1998 and won gold at the 1998 ITU World Championships. Her groundbreaking work has earned her several prestigious awards. 

Alex Page

Joni Briganti (Spotsylvania, Virginia)

Named in honor of Mike Greer, who passed away in July of 2021, the Mike Greer Spirit of Multisport Award recognizes those individuals who illustrate the principles of the positive spirit of the sport as displayed through acts of sportsmanship and leadership. A distinguished Team USA athlete, a USA Triathlon Certified Coach and USA Triathlon Foundation ambassador, Briganti is dedicated to the sport through service and a positive spirit. She is known not only for her joyous enthusiasm on the course, but also for her volunteer work organizing indoor triathlons and supporting the Special Olympics. 

Courtesy of Joni Briganti

Elizabeth Hesse (Islamabad, Pakistan)

Hesse is the recipient of the Military Sport Award, which recognizes the multisport successes achieved by the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces as they pursue the triathlon lifestyle. Hesse is a dedicated triathlete who has represented Team USA and earned USAT All-American honors while juggling her demanding career in the Army and Public Health Service. Based in Islamabad, she plans to organize a local triathlon and introduce the sport to the community. 

Courtesy of Elizabeth Hesse

Nathan Lassalle (Minneapolis, Minnesota)

The Most Inspirational Comeback Award recognizes athletes who have made a comeback to the sport after a traumatic or troublesome personal situation.  

Lasalle was seriously injured in a bike accident this year, resulting in broken bones and brain trauma. Despite these setbacks, he has shown remarkable determination to return to triathlon. A dedicated member and officer of the Minnesota Triathlon Team at the University of Minnesota, he raised significant funds for the team’s national championship trip and supported their teammates during recovery. 

Courtesy of Nathan Lassalle

Jazmine Moezzi (Redondo Beach, California)

The Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes an individual or organization whose volunteer leadership has been transformative and has mobilized and unified athletes, programs, and organizations in the multisport community. Moezzi has dedicated her life to creating a community and helping others.  

Starting as a competitive figure skater and tennis player, she found her true passion in triathlon while at USC. During the pandemic, she founded the South Bay Squad, which now serves over 80 triathletes. Her impact extends to volunteering with Kids Enjoy Exercise Now (KEEN) LA, where she has raised over $20k and secured funding for their first triathlon event. 

Courtesy of Jazmine Moezzi

Michanda Myles (Washington, D.C., USA)

This award is presented annually in honor of Doug Clark, a decorated triathlete who inspired others through his dedication and commitment to the sport, humility, and high standards of ethical behavior on and off the fi eld of competition.  

Myles is a dynamic triathlete, model, network project manager, and host of Tri Beginner’s Luck, recognized as the Best Podcast for Beginners by Triathlete Magazine. Known for her charisma and motivational presence, she excels in endurance sports and public speaking, creating an inspiring environment for athletes. Her podcast champions beginner triathletes, encouraging them to embrace their journeys and shine brightly.  

Courtesy of Michanda Myles