President: Chuck Ayers
Tell us about yourself: I was the executive director of Cascade Bicycle Club for 17 years, thus, people think I know all about bikes. I don’t. I take mine to a shop! I work with people. Besides Cascade, I worked for the National Park Service, Outward Bound, a union, and a community advocacy organization. I did PhD work in Social Work focusing on adolescents (I nearly finished). I played sprint sports all my life, (soccer, baseball, basketball, hockey) so endurance sports—especially multidiscipline sports such as triathlons—are a challenge. I always go too hard on the bike.
What do you like about Seattle Green Lake Triathlon Group (SGLTG): While I mostly train alone as I don’t keep a regular schedule, it’s nice to have a community of support. What I really appreciate about SGLTG is the community we provide. You can dance around the perimeter of the group if that’s what you want and/or need or you can jump into the inner circle by hosting events for other members, attending socials and clinics, joining the board, etc. We can be a conduit to your first Tri or training and support for your 100th—you can find support even if you don’t plan to race.
Tell us about one of your favorite races so far: Finishing the swim on all my races knowing that I didn’t drown. I’ve gotten to be a better swimmer over the few years of racing if only I can keep the panic at bay. It’s not always about your physical condition as much as your mental/psychological condition.
What is a life lesson that you think triathlon helps teach: Get on with living.
Vice President: Thomas Risse
Tell us about yourself: I’m an age grouper triathlete who enjoys triathlon as a sport and the people attracted to it. They are positive and root for everyone to do their best. I’ve been fortunate enough to participate in distances from sprint to full ironman. People who know me, know I love to race and would rather attend a race than train any day. Racing is fun!
In a race, the swim is the hardest part for me. I’m always happiest on land, with the run being my favorite. Though the bike is a close second. And I love a quick transition between disciplines too.
What do you like about Seattle Green Lake Triathlon Group (SGLTG): It provides a community of people with similar interests to enjoy those interests together. The club is accepting of all people, for who they are. And it doesn’t matter whether you’re attempting your first sprint triathlon or doing your 10th Ironman…whether you’re first or last or even not able to finish. The point of the club is to support each other and provide activities, events, opportunities to learn, socials and all around love of multisport.
Tell us about one of your favorite races so far: One of my favorite races was Lake Tye sprint. They started the “over 40s” first and for part of the race, I was leading the entire race. Ultimately I did get passed, but it was pretty fun to be the leader for a bit. I love the big races like Ironman puts on, but there is something really special about local races with local organizers and lots of people you recognized and can cheer each other on.
What is a life lesson that you think triathlon helps teach: That even in adversity, you just keep pushing forward. And with hard things come great reward. If it was easy, we wouldn’t feel the sense of accomplishment we do!