Ironman Adopt-an-Athlete

Being part of an Ironman triathlon, I have had the unique opportunity to take part in the Ironman Adopt-an-athlete program. Typically, the program is only for athletes that live in communities that host the Ironman races (i.e., Coeur d'Alene, Arizona, etc). However, I contacted the Ironman corporation and asked if I could take part in the program in Bakersfield. Sure enough, they said yes. I contacted schools in the Bakersfield area and several classrooms jumped on it. I have been adopted by a 4th grade classroom.

My first visit I went out to talk about the Ironman, my equipment and goal-setting. Students received an exercise log and I handed out some prizes. Upon my next visit, I discuss nutrition and the importance of hydration. It will culminate with 1 last visit before the end of school as I talk about the race preparation and answer any final questions. Students will receive an Ironman hat and Gatorade bottle and I will hand out some Ironman T shirts as prizes. This is a wonderful opportunity. I look forward to doing this every year I do an Ironman.