Help Send Melanie to 70.3 World Championships

Hello friends and family,

My name is Melanie and I’ve had a goal to qualify for a world championship in triathlon for the past two years. Earlier this spring, I did it! I conquered a 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike, and 13.1 mile run in Morro Bay to place second in my age group. With this performance, I earned myself a spot in the World Championships in Lahti, Finland this August! This race will be my biggest challenge yet: I will compete on another continent against the greatest triathletes in the sport.

I have always loved seeing how far I can push myself. This drive started when I was little, sprinting on the soccer field and racing in the pool. In college, I played ultimate frisbee knowing I wanted to stay active but unsure where my true passion lied. It was only after the pandemic that I transitioned away from team sports and into triathlon. I finally feel like I found the sport I’m meant to be doing; my passion has only grown as I try to find my limits.

The time and persistence it has taken me to reach this level is considerable, especially as I transitioned out of college and into a full time job. I work 40 hours per week at Stanford Hospital as a product support specialist for a medical device company called Stryker. Somehow, I still manage to fit in 12 hours of training every week.

Despite my hard work and dedication, travel to and accommodation in Finland will be a real stretch on my resources. The expenses add up quickly but any little bit helps. All funds raised will help me and my partner offset entry fees, flights, housing, and bike transportation. I sincerely appreciate anything that will help me compete in this once-in-a-lifetime race.