Ironman Kona World Championships

It has taken me some time to come up with the words to write this, as I have been quite reluctant to the idea. However, I have had quite a few people reach out to me asking how they could help, and my parents have strongly encouraged me to let them do so before I place a greater financial burden on myself. As many of you know, it had been my goal to race at Ironman World Championships in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii since I had first taken an interest in triathlons. I have spent many hours training, researching, and doing whatever I could over the past two-three years to help mmyself reach this goal. At Ironman Lake Placid this year, everything came together and dreams became a reality, I qualified for Kona. It was never a question of whether or not I was going; I had worked so hard for this and turning down this opportunity would have been heart breaking to me. However, we all know trips to Hawaii aren't cheap and when you start looking at race registration fees and travel expenses that come with racing, things add up quickly. I had spent a better portion of the last two years saving in anticipation of this trip years down the road, but the recent changes in my life haven't worked in favor of saving for the trip. Unable to secure a job in the Adirondacks, I decided to make a big move to Denver that would allow me to grow both professionally and as a triathlete. With this decision came the expense of moving across the country, and what I had saved up for the trip was quickly depleted. It was a difficult decision for me to make, but I knew if I didn't have a job, there was no way I would be able to continue racing after Kona until I got myself back on my feet. I had all intentions of putting the expense of this trip on a credit card and am prepared to spend the necessary time paying it off, but like I said before, my parents have strongly encouraged me to let those who want to help do so, which has led me here. I am honored to have the opportunity to represent the Adirondacks, Team BlueLine, and race for Nick in Hawaii and will cherish this journey for the rest of my life. If you have it in your heart to support my journey, I will be forever grateful. If you don't agree with the request, I understand, but ask that you please say a prayer for Nick and continue to keep him in your thoughts. Thank you :]