Seven years later we were living and working as missionaries in the Amazon region of Brazil. Ironically, I was introduced once again to another group of triathletes. This time the group was about 15 young men that could have been my sons. All of them were fairly poor. They would buy ten speeds and work small jobs to get enough money to modify them bit by bit. They would either work out in a pool or go to the Amazon and the Tapajos rivers.

Talk about interesting! Well, needless to say, that all got my interest again and I quickly took up the challenge. I am sure I was a sight! I was the tallest, whitest female in town and now I was racing around town with a bunch of kids. It was great. These guys taught me how to have fun with the sport, how to improvise when you don't have what you need, and how to work hard but to always enjoy yourself! It was also a fantastic stress reliever--and you can only imagine the stress level at times. We would do mostly sprint tris, but would throw in some super sprints or olympic distance as well just to keep it interesting.

When we moved back to the states four years ago, I knew that I had to get connected with another group of triathletes with the same heart desires as that group of young men. I have to say that I meet more and more people like this every day. They want to work hard, get better, but have a great time. When you can get to this point, the pain you feel is just a means to the end. You realize that what you are doing is not a temporary thing, but a lifestyle that helps keep you healthy and strong. I have talked to so many people who agree with myself that we plan on continuing like this well into our old age! The health benefits and the comeraderie are well worth it.

This is a big reason why I enjoyed the Buttar races this summer. Having not raced in a few years (since moving back to the states), these races provided a great atmosphere. They were not intimidating or "scary". They make everyone feel welcome. I really enjoyed them and am already looking forward to next season. Whether you are a veteran or a novice, everyone was made to feel like they belonged.

Once again, I just want to thank everyone for a great summer! In the off season, we will be doing some great rides and runs and working harder and harder while we continue to have a whole lot more fun!

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