Hello everyone and welcome,

My name is Gavin O'Brien and my friend, Jackson Lyda, and I are two juniors at The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina, and proud members of the United States Army National Guard. We’ve set a big goal for ourselves: to compete in our very first triathlon.

As college students and out-of-state cadets, our budget is tight. Jackson is a native of Banks, Oregon, and I am from Rocky River, Ohio. The biggest obstacle we face right now is not the training hours or discipline—it’s access to reliable bikes. Biking is one of the most important parts of triathlon training, and unfortunately, we don’t currently own bikes that would allow us to properly prepare for the race.

We’re raising funds to purchase two road bikes that will help us train and compete safely and effectively. Every contribution, no matter how small, will go directly toward making this dream possible.

Triathlon training is not just about fitness for us—it’s about building resilience, teamwork, and pushing ourselves beyond our limits, values that align with our commitment as cadets and soldiers.

We deeply appreciate your support in helping us take on this challenge. If you’re unable to donate, please consider sharing our story with friends and family.

Thank you so much for believing in us and helping us make our way to the starting line!

Respectfully,

Gavin O'Brien and Jackson Lyda

Citadel Cadets, U.S. Army National Guard