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The T3 Coaches would like to announce Chris Quirk as Athlete of the Month for August. Chris has not only shown great improvements in his training this year, but he has happily met any challenges that have come his way. Chris has demonstrated a winning attitude at practices as well as races and has displayed unyielding determination in his triathlon endeavors. No matter what the T3 coaches throw at him, Chris always responds with enthusiasm.
The T3 Athlete of the Month is selected by the T3 Coaches for exhibiting strong T3 values such as teamwork, determination, motivation and leadership. This athlete will also receive a special gift from one of the T3 Partners. |
Background on Chris 
"I was first introduced to triathlons by my wife, Stephanie. Seeing her at the finish line of her first few races encouraged me to give it a try. I was introduced to T3 by Jason Herd, a fellow T3 athlete. Jason told us about his experience with the team while training for Vineman 2007, and it sounded like just the place to improve my swim stroke for the upcoming 2008 triathlon season. After signing up for the T3 Swim Clinic in November 2007, I wanted to learn what the swim workouts were like in the T1 lanes. With encouragement from Chrissie and Maurice, my stroke and endurance in the pool gradually improved. It was not long after the clinic that I got the bug to do the 2008 Vineman Half Ironman with the team and started training with T3 for all three disciplines.
Although I got exposure to the team in the swim lanes, it was joining everyone at the various workouts that really solidified my involvement with T3. It was at that point where I really got to see the team in action in preparation for Ironman Arizona. It was inspiring to read the stories and attend the workouts with everyone heading out to Arizona. I was certain that if I did as others said and followed the workout schedule, I would be more than prepared for Vineman or anything else that comes my way." |
Defining Moments for Chris
"One of the defining moments in my training was when Coach Logan convinced me that I am an "athlete." Growing up I was never much of an athlete. I have always been active, but for the vast majority of the time I was carrying a guitar or a bag of records. Training with T3 has helped me realize an athletic potential that I never knew I had. It is an amazing experience getting to learn what it is to be an "athlete" along with everyone else. There have also been many moments in the pool that I have been pushed by all of the T3 athletes to do things I was unsure I do. These challenges from the coaches have really helped me perform beyond my expectations. On the horizon is Ironman Coeur d'Alene 2009 with the team, and I am really excited about the training and the event." |
Balanced & Healthy Lifestyle 
What makes Chris' story even more incredible is the balance he is able to maintain in his life. Chris is the leader of a software company named Dragonfly Software Designs in addition to being a husband to Stephanie and a father to Ryland (who we all know and love). Chris has set an incredible example for Ryland by showing him how to live an active and healthy lifestyle. Chris credits his recent accomplishments (including his Vineman 2008 finish) to his family - stating that they are the support system that allows him to train and race with confidence. |
 "My family motivates me the most. Whenever things get tough, knowing that they believe in me make all the difference. I could not do any of the things that I have trained for without Stephanie's support. Eating nutritiously and having a loving, encouraging home environment makes anything possible!"
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