Successful TriRock Philly for TNT

Last weekend I had the privilege of watching a couple of dozen of our Team in Training athletes cross the finish line of the 2016 TriRock Philadelphia Triathlon. These guys worked hard all season to prepare for Philly. In total, our team raised $104,000 to aid the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s mission to fight blood cancers. I also had the opportunity to emcee their inspiration dinner on Saturday night, which is always a moving experience.

I also feel it’s important to show some love to two other athletes whose races didn’t go exactly according to plan. We had one participant on Saturday and one on Sunday who were forced to end their days early due to various reasons. While the unfortunate “DNF” can be a difficult pill to swallow, it needs to be kept in perspective. First of all… stuff happens. It happens to all of us, all of the time. You weren’t the first to DNF, you won’t be the last. You worked and trained hard to get to race day so not being able to celebrate your finish stings. I get that. But understand that a DNF doesn’t measure your character, commitment, ability, dedication, or mettle in any way. A DNF simply translates to – not THIS day. You own tomorrow. And you will have your way with tomorrow.

You are still very much a part of this community. Be proud of yourself for having the courage to commit and get to the start line. Be proud of yourself for all of the work you put into this season. Be proud of yourself for the impact you have in the blood cancer community. Be proud of yourself because everyone else is proud of you – especially your coaches and we will see you TOMORROW.