A MASTERFUL TRANSFORMATION READIES FOR KONA

It was a brutal day for all the competitors on that July 27th in Lake Placid. The rain and wind pounded the athletes relentlessly showing no mercy for the first-timers or veterans. And for first time pro-Ironman, Ryan Grote, it was no different, although you wouldn't think so by looking at his results. Not sure what the day would hold for him, Ryan knew one thing, it would be a day he would have to dig deep to reach his goal. And that he did. His sixth place overall finish not only gave him the third place American finisher in the USA Championships but qualified him for the World Championships in Hawaii!

Last year, Ryan Grote, transformed from runner extraordinaire to a professional triathlete. Amazingly, he took to cycling and swimming very quickly to become a very competitive pro with an awesome weapon…a killer run.

With only a few half-Ironmans under his belt, Ryan began his preparation for IMUSA. He sought out one of the best coaches, Don Fink (ok- I'm his wife so this may be bias!) and has taken his performances to a new level.

He and his wife, Kathy, own a very successful running shop in Bedminster, NJ, Runner's Pace, where they both work. Kathy is only part-time at the shop but it allows Ryan enough time to fit in all of his training. Kathy is also a competitive runner and soon to be triathlete but that is a story for another article.

In addition, to running the store and training for Ironman competitions, Ryan also dedicates time to coaching and mentoring several high school level runners. He has an obvious passion for running and is always willing to offer his expertise and guidance to all who ask.

Watch for Ryan to be one of the top American finishers in Hawaii!

Aloha!

Author Bio: Melanie Fink is a multi-sport coach and top age group triathlete. She has competed in 6 Ironman competitions with a personal best time of 10 hr 42 mins. She will be competing in the World Championships in Hawaii this October having won a coveted slot at Ironman Florida.