The Holiday's proved busy and we are all re-energized as we head into 2010. T minus 258 days till Half Full Triathlon. Needless to say we are very excited. I wanted to take a minute to share some of the experience I have had with some of our Community, Regional and National partners. We would not be able to make this event happen if it wasn't for the involvement of some very passionate and giving people. Many have stepped up, unprompted to offer whatever assistance they could lend. Needless to say, this is very humbling and encouraging as we look to the support of our community as we build the Half Full Triathlon to a point where we will be noticed and make a statement in the fight against cancer.
The first story I would like to share with you is that of Stoney! He has been kind enough to share a piece of his story and connection to the Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults and Half Full Triathlon. It is said so very well and from the heart. Thanks Stoney!
The Half Full Triathlon’s October 3rd date gives me the entire winter, spring, and summer to train and prepare for my first Triathlon in over 20 years.
The Half Full Triathlon’s location allows me to sleep in my own bed, does not require me to travel to the Easter Shore, or spend money on meals or motels to participate.
The Half Full Triathlon is very cost effective. During these tough economic times, $170 is less than many local Sprint or International Distances.
The Half Full Triathlon’s focus on survivorship is a compelling reason. While the Half Full Triathlon obviously needs to make a profit, nothing about the event feels like it is profit driven. Its focus in every communication is the same message: The Cancer Community, and the athletes, friends and family. The lack of a pro field and money prizes remind me of my favorite race, the Marine Corps Marathon, the people’s race.
Professionally the Half Full Triathlon was an event that I knew I had to do everything possible to have my employer develop at partnership with. As a Howard County family-run business, I strongly believe that we should support such events that make sense and I am very proud that my employer Alan Davis, his family, and Princeton Sports are committed to the success of the Half Full Triathlon.
What is your connection to the cancer fight? Growing up, my closest friend’s father had cancer cut out of his body while I was in Grade School and again while I was in High School. Then while I was in college, Ben went into the hospital for some tests and died within a month. As a young adult in the early 70’s I learned that cancer was hidden, and unbeatable. I was shocked when I visited the Ulman Cancer Fund for Young Adults’ web site to learn about the statistics and previous lack of support groups, and can only imagine how my friend’s family could have benefited. Now, my connection is through interactions with Brock, Kelly, Katrina, and you Brian at the UCF. Seeing and experiencing everyone’s professionalism and consistent focus thru the tough times of building UCF is impressive and demands my respect.
Why is COMMUNITY important in this event? The Half Full Triathlon is more that a sporting event, it is the opportunity to represent the “fight back” attitude that appears so relevant and successful in cancer survivorship. Without the “smell” of a profit-driven event, and with the strong message of Community, the Half Full Triathlon can become something bigger. Something that fulfills the needs of the community for cancer victims, survivors, family, and friends to join and rage against the disease on both the primal level of physical competition with one’s self, and the social level of community to express the bright confidence of change and progress to defeat the disease.
What does "Half Full" or optimism mean in your life? “Half Full” & optimism means understanding the challenges, enduring the hard work, believing in yourself, and refusing to allow yourself to accept anything less than success.
What is your personal vision for Half Full Triathlon? I can’t predict where The Half Full Triathlon will be in 5 or 10 years. This first year’s event will set the tone for rest to follow. To me, it is less important to be perfect in 2010 than it is to fulfill the Half Full Triathlon’s mission statement and message of “a 70-mile fight for young adult cancer support.” Clinton got elected on a message of “it’s the economy”, Obama’s message was “Yes, we can” – they got into trouble when they forgot their message. My person vision for the Half Full Tri is an event including a strong message of fighting against cancer.
Regards,
Mike Stone
Princeton Sports
If you are in Columbia, Maryland, stop by Princeton Sports and thank Mike for fighting with us!
Best in Training!
Brian
