MyTeam Triumph: Racing Together, Toward The Finish Line

If you finish a 5K, triathlon or distance swim: Congratulations! You should feel proud.

But if you’ve got a disability, and you do it: Wow! You should feel amazing.

A number of Westporters feel that way, at events like the Minute Man Road Race, Kiwanis Club Tri and YMCA Compo Beach Point-to-Point Swim.

They participate avidly and energetically.

And sharing in their fulfillment are volunteers from myTeam Triumph.

mTT — a low-key, but very importnat nonprofit — empowers people with disabilities (called “captains”) to participate in endurance events. They’re supported by “angels” — men, women and teenagers who run, bike or swim alongside.

The experience is about more than racing. It’s about friendship, inclusion, and joining joyfully together.

And they’re off!

As spring nears, myTeam Triumph Connecticut gears up for another inclusive season.

To kick things off, mTT-CT is inviting the community to an informal Warmup Run & Picnic, at Compo Beach. The April 13 event (11 a.m.) includes a short, easy run (all paces welcome), followed by a picnic with wraps, salads and good conversation. (Feel free to bring a side dish to share.) Click here to sign up.

myTeam Triumph’s pedal power.

Angels come in all ages and athletic abilities. There are runners, joggers and walkers (plus bicyclists and swimmers). Click here for more information, and to sign up.

Captains and angels, at the Point-to-Point Swim.

Meanwhile, if you’re a captain — an athlete with a disability who wants to experience the thrill of a race — there’s great news.

myTeam Triumph takes care of everything: race chair and equipment, registration and logistics, a team of volunteer angels every step (or stroke) of the way, at events throughout the year and around the state.

And it’s all free. There is absolutely no cost to participate. Click here for more information, and to sign up.

The Minute Man Race draws plenty of captains and angels.

Upcoming events include the Westport Young Woman’s League Minute Man Race (April 27), Stamford Boys & Girls Club 5K (May 15), and Bloomin’ Metric Bike Ride (May 18). Click here for the full schedule.

“Whether you’re looking to run, roll, cheer or just check things out, the April 13 Warmup is the perfect place to start.” organizers say.

“Come meet the mTT crew, enjoy some sunshine, and find out what this incredible community is all about.

“After all, everyone deserves to cross the finish line.”

Crossing the finish line, with myTeam Triumph.