July 16, 2013

by: Renee Canfield

4:30 am Wake Up Call

I am not an athlete in my own right, far from it actually.  But ever since I attended my first marathon supporting someone close to me I have loved the excitement and energy that is at the center of these types of events. I admire the athletes and the determination it takes to put your body to extreme limits.  Leading up to my first Cleveland Triathlon as a volunteer I assumed that the Tri would be much the same.  But it ended up being so much more.  The families that make up the core of Team UCP are simply awe-inspiring.  Not only do they face the added stress of being a parent with special needs, they do so with grace, embracing their family’s unique sorrows and joys.  This comes across so vividly during their participation in the Tri.

One of my favorite things in being a volunteer at the Tri is seeing the progress of the kids that inspire Team UCP. (Love all those smiling faces from 2008 in the picture to the left? See where they are now.)  It speaks to the hard work and determination that they have throughout the year to learn, grown and become more independent.  How amazing is it that the first year Myles was pushed across the finish line by his dad and last year he participated in the bike and WALKED across the finish line?!!  Many others have followed in his foot steps.

And one of my favorite things that happened last year, Kevin participated in the Kids Triathlon for the first time!  Simply remarkable. The smile that lights up his face says it all.

To be a volunteer at the Tri as a part of Team UCP is to share just a tiny bit of their joy and to witness their accomplishment.

Being a part of the volunteer group that supports Team UCP is an honor and a privilege.  You can’t be a part of these life moments without getting off your couch and leaving your house. So get up at 4:30 am on August 4th and come down to the Cleveland Triathlon as a volunteer.  I know each and every year I am so glad that I did.

To find out more on volunteering at the Cleveland Triathlon, please visit this post.

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