Help Joe Defend His National Triathlon Gold at 81

Hello, friends and supporters,

My name is Joe Simonetta. I’m an 81-year-old (nearly 82) triathlete who won the gold medal in the 80-84 age group at the 2023 U.S. National Senior Games Sprint Triathlon in Pittsburgh, PA—the very first triathlon I ever competed in.

That victory came as the result of a lifetime of staying in excellent physical and mental condition. The story caught the attention of many as it was my first triathlon—search “Joe Simonetta triathlete,” and you’ll find numerous articles about it.

This year, the 2025 U.S. National Senior Games will be held on August 1st in Des Moines, Iowa. I have been training with great dedication to compete again. However, due to a serious financial setback—specifically, a person defaulting on a substantial financial obligation to me—I now cannot afford to make the trip.

I’m launching this GoFundMe to raise $3,500 to cover the following travel and competition-related expenses:

Race Entry Fee

Round-trip Airfare

Hotel Stay

Rental Car

Bike Rental

Meals and Daily Expenses

This support would allow me to defend my national title, continue competing at the highest level in my age group, and inspire others to pursue health, longevity, and excellence—no matter their age.

Any contribution you can make—large or small—will be deeply appreciated. If you're unable to give but still want to help, please consider sharing this campaign with others.

Thank you very much.

Best,

Joe

P.S. The photo is from the 2024 U.S. National Sprint Triathlon Championships held in Atlantic City, NJ. in September 2024.