2009 ICTN Triathlon Camp
Since 2006, Christian triathletes from around the country have been meeting yearly in AZ for the ICTN Triathlon Camp. For those unfamiliar, the International Christian Triathlon Network (ICTN) is a group of like-hearted ministries and individuals who come together to celebrate Jesus and triathlon. Of these, FCA Endurance is a pillar ministry.
 For this year's camp, we decided to do something a bit different and leave the metro area of Phoenix. While doing so meant leaving a few large metro conveniences, it also meant we left a bunch of traffic, safety issues, and logistical headaches. It also meant we gained some amazing training grounds! Anyone heard of Mt. Lemmon? If not, this ride alone nearly makes the move worth it. (photo right: a quick break during the 25 mile climb- Kirk Nelson, Chris Anderson, Lincoln Murdoch, Troy Soares, and Dan Perkins- all but Dan flipped at 20 to get back for lunch :-)
Before getting into too may details of the camp, I must thank three amazing servants who made this camp happen... Teammates Brian and Jill Grasky (AZ) and Stan Smith (VA). While there were others who worked behind the scenes (who I'm also very thankful for), Stan, Brian, and Jill poured countless hours into this camp before, during, and after! Thank you for your commitment and sacrifice!
This camp was much like the other three in that it was a great blend of fellowship, training, coaching, and spiritual renewal. However, it had a much different feel, at least personally and to those I spoke with during and after camp. Perhaps partially due to the smaller attendance (around 50), being out of a major city, growing relationships, or the times we're living in, but this camp seemed to have a much more intimate feel. This "allowed" campers to open up and share current hurts, fears, adversities, and frustrations. The pastoral staff, including Scott Bennefield, Bob Brubaker, Lincoln Murdoch, and Dan Perkins spoke into and through this together in a Spirit-guided way, renewing us all.
In addition to the times spent together in these chapel-like settings, we spent some great time experiencing and worshiping the Lord through training with our brothers and sisters in a beautiful area. Tucson allowed for convenient swimming, good running, and amazing cycling! These workouts were led by locals and the camp pros and coaches, including Kirk Nelson, Brad Seng, John Shelp, Brian Grasky, JR Rosania, and Kevin Paladino.
In addition to these pros and coaches, we were once again blessed with the presence of Jamie Whitmore and her amazing husband Courtney. As many of you know Jamie is the '04 XTERRA World Champion and multiple-time USA National Champion. She has been at all four camps and is an amazing woman. Shortly after last year's camp, Jamie was diagnosed with a pelvic nerve tumor, and is still battling her way back after a number of procedures, including surgeries and chemo. She was able and willing to share her story, and everyone was touched, certainly by her spirit, but especially by her faith! She is truly remarkable, and the Lord continues to use her in great ways. To follow her story and give her support, please visit her site: http://www.jamiewhitmore.com/
In reporting on the camp, I would also be remiss if I didn't send out a big thanks to Hammer Nutrition. They have sponsored all 4 camps with amazing generosity, and Steve Born was able to join us once again, offering nutritional wisdom, as well as a sincere loving spirit that blesses everyone.
Once again, camp was a major blessing! In closing, as I reflect on the camp, thankful to be a part of it, well above the training and information (spiritual and physical), I will remember my growing family of Christian triathletes. Spending time with them each January is a highlight, and I am and will be eternally grateful for each of them and their influence on my life!
For '09 camp details and photos, please visit: http://www.ictrinet.com/2009Camp/
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