Who ever goes from being a down-and-out inmate to becoming an elite Hawaii Ironman? One guy, at least. That'd be Shane Niemeyer, a personal trainer who lives in Colorado. In 2005, he was homeless, suicidal, and a county jail prisoner. But during that dark period, Shane came across an article about the internationally-known endurance competition and was inspired enough to change his thinking and lifestyle. (He says he was also "fat" and a drug abuser.) According to the Idaho Statesman, he had no background as a triathlete. But an inexpensive bike, a Gold's gym membership, and ganas* were his training tools.
Shane appears in the promo below for the Ironman, held in Kailua-Kona, (which aired on NBC yesterday) at the 40, 41 mark. What he accomplished on a hot, hot day this past October: A swim of 2.4 miles, a bike ride of 112 miles, a 26.2 marathon run, and a personal triumph over his past.
I agree, Christine, especially when you consider how hard it is to qualify for an Ironman and how hard it is - even for very good athletes - complete this event.
3 comments:
This story really moved me - I was in tears. What a comeback - so inspiring!
I agree, Christine, especially when you consider how hard it is to qualify for an Ironman and how hard it is - even for very good athletes - complete this event.
This young man overcame much.
This story really moved me - I was in tears. What a comeback - so inspiring!
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