Dear family and friends,

Anyone who knows me, knows how important sports and fitness are in my life. Unfortunately, living a healthy, active lifestyle is something that is easily taken for granted.  Most recently I have taken on the challenge of training for Ironman Wisconsin. For those of you who do not know, the Ironman consists of completing a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike and 26.2 mile run.  

To make my race more meaningful, I have decided to raise money for a cause that will give others the opportunity to participate in something that I am so fortunate to be able to do. myTEAM TRIUMPH – an inspiring 501c3 non-profit athletic mentoring organization gives hope to many individuals with physical disabilities throughout Wisconsin.  They accomplish this by pairing individuals with disabilities (called “Captains”) with three able-bodied athletes (called “Angels”). 

In a race, Captains provide the inspiration, while Angels push and pull their Captain in specialized running chairs, bike trailers and boats. By providing support, mentoring relationships, and the chance to cross the finish line in a road race or triathlon, physically challenged athletes are able to experience the joy & accomplishment of endurance sport.

Did you know there are 40-50 million people with physical disabilities in the U.S. alone? Only 1 in 10 physically challenged people have the opportunity to participate in sports. There is a huge population of people who aren’t able to go for a run, bike ride, or feel the thrill of crossing the finish line that so many of us enjoy. But it’s not because they lack ambition, desire, or skill. They only lack the support and funding to get the resources they need to succeed.

Adaptive sports equipment like running chairs, bike trailers and boats can cost up to $5,000 each.  Insurance typically does not cover these expenses. Just like me, these challenged athletes want to participate in athletics, but they face a major obstacle.  myTEAM TRIUMPH is changing this reality by helping people of all ages, ethnicities, and disabilities throughout Wisconsin realize their dreams. Still, support is needed to get even more challenged athletes to the finish line.

With your help, myTEAM TRIUMPH can provide the support, equipment and mentoring relationships in the lives of these challenged athletes.  That is why I am challenging myself to make a difference and asking you to do the same.

Please partner with me by making a donation on my secure personal fundraising webpage at: http://www.crowdrise.com/reneesironmanadventure

Or by check to:

myTEAM TRIUMPH Wisconsin Chapter

c/o Renee Rentmeester - N9455 State Park Road - Appleton, WI 54915

Please join me in our mission to improve the health and wellbeing of individuals with disabilities.  Give the gift of sports and help get challenged athletes off the sidelines – and into the race.

Thank you for your support,

Renee Rentmeester