I started in endurance sports as a bike racer. Back when I was younger, I competed in road races, track races, and stage racing before I began running.

My high school XC coach convinced me that I could be a good runner if I applied myself. I switched to running and was able to run on scholarship at University of Portland, eventually improving my PRs to 14:04 in the 5k and 29:14 in the 10k.

As a runner, I discovered the two most important principles for success in endurance sports that allowed me to surpass athletes of equivalent talent while at UP. I now apply these principles for every athlete I coach.

My running skills weren't enough to ever be world-class, however. In 2009 I decided to give triathlon a go. I had qualified last in my qualifying race for Duathlon Worlds, but out of nowhere I won the World Championships which sparked my triathlon career.

I quickly climbed the ranks and was able to win the US Pro Duathlon Nationals in 2010, placed 8th at Ironman 70.3 Boise and 8th at Ironman Lake Placid. I had the fastest run split at Lake Placid and was even able to outrun Craig Alexander at Boise for the fastest run split.

In the 2012 edition of Ironman St. George the wind was absolutely terrible and led to a 37% dropout rate - the highest recorded dropout rate in Ironman history. I managed to keep my cool and ended up having the fastest run of the day and finished 5th overall. It was the greatest sense of accomplishment I have ever felt.