Last year, only 1 myTeamTriumph captain participated in the Westport Kiwanis Club Triathlon at Compo Beach.
MTT is a program for children, teens, adults and veterans with disabilities who otherwise could not participate in endurance events like triathlons and road races. Volunteers “ride along,” helping them compete in — and enjoy — those endeavors.
What a difference a year makes.
Last weekend, there were 10 captains. Five got out of their wheelchairs and — with assistance from their angels — walked across the finish line. One — a frequent participant in MTT events — crossed on her own feet for the first time.
Another captain completed the entire 5K run by herself. An angel ran beside her.
Over 40 angels and volunteers took part. Nearly half were Westporters.
Here are some scenes from that great day.
Setting up at sunrise.
Captain Wolf finishes the swim.
Another leg of the triathlon.
Many captains are non-verbal. The friendship between Captain Austin and Andy is beyond words.
Captain Alexei switches events.
A determined Captain Sami completes her first walk across the finish line.
Captain Wolf enjoys her trophy.
Captain Bella and her angel are all smiles.
Captain Charlotte and her equally proud dad.
Captain Jack and angel Adam share a special moment.
(For more information on myTeamTriumph — including how to get involved — click here. Hat tips: Karen Strauss-Ziebell, Curtis Lueker and Andy Berman.)