He studied Education and Mathematics at Grand Valley State University in Allendale, MI, USA. During his time there, he received the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletics Conference (GLIAC) Commissioner's Award in 2007 and 2008 for academic and sporting excellence.

Family and Personal Life

He is married to Amy and has two daughters, Peyton and Brooklyn. His parents have been a significant influence on his life and career. He speaks English and currently resides in Arizona.

Sporting Career

Before focusing on Para triathlon, he competed in athletics at the 2012 Paralympic Games in London. He participated in the men's T46 marathon, 800m, and 1500m events. His running style led him to believe that triathlon would be a good fit for him.

Coaching and Professional Roles

In late 2021, he moved from West Virginia to Arizona to join USA Triathlon's Project Podium programme. By January 2022, he began working as a project coordinator for academic enterprise enrolment at Arizona State University. He also holds a level two coaching certification from USA Triathlon.

Training Regimen

His training schedule is rigorous. He trains for up to five hours a day, starting at 05:00. His routine includes two hours of cycling, followed by running, core and strength training, and over an hour of swimming.

Injuries

In late 2023, a calf injury forced him to withdraw from the Ironman 70.3 event in Indian Wells, CA. This was not his first encounter with calf problems, which have been recurring issues throughout his career.

Ambitions

Looking ahead, he aims to win a medal at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. This goal reflects his dedication to the sport and his desire to achieve new heights in his athletic career.

Philosophy

"I love pushing myself as hard as I can and then trying to push some more," he says. This philosophy drives him to excel both in training and competition.

Further Education

He has pursued further education by studying for master's degrees at Eastern Washington University (sport psychology) and the University of Utah (business administration). Additionally, he has worked towards a PhD in sport psychology at the University of Utah.

Coaching Experience

During the 2018/19 season, he served as head triathlon coach at Davis & Elkins College in West Virginia. He has also coached at Good Boys Running Club in Denver, CO. His extensive coaching experience adds another layer to his multifaceted career.

This athlete's journey from collegiate runner to Para triathlete showcases his resilience and commitment. With eyes set on the 2024 Paralympic Games, he continues to push himself towards new achievements while balancing family life and professional responsibilities.