Western North Carolina

Here's what some of our participants had to say about their TNT experience:

"I can't wait to do another race, but it's not the accomplishment that motivates me to say that.  Honestly, it's the feeling you get from being with a great team and organization as Team in Training.  It's the cheers you get from people on the course; it's the inspiration you get from the heroes at the pasta party; it's people calling you a hero (although I don't think I can ever take on that title).  It's meeting great friends and teammates.  And it's the support you get from great staff, coaches and mentors that keeps you saying:  I can do this!!" - Jaimee DeFrancesco, Charlotte, NC

"I joined Team in Training because I wanted to give back.  At the time, I was a survivor of a non-Hodgkins lymphoma and wanted to give back.  Little did I know this would be the best thing in the world that I could do for myself and help out others at the same time!  I've made fantastic friends, now referred to as my TNT FAMILY, and I love to train with them. We meet for breakfast after our training and I love the fellowship more that the training itself!  Earlier this year, I was diagnosed with another non-Hodgkins lymphoma and my "family" was there with lots of love and support. I've completed 3 half marathons and plan to do more!  Why do I keep coming back - it's simple - I can, others with the disease can't, and I truly believe in the mission!  I also believe one day we will find a cure, and knowing that I could help that along means the world to me." - Lisa Ryan, Charlotte, NC

"This is the way to do any sort of training for any endurance event. I was coached, encouraged, treated specially and have grown immensely from this experience. I have also gained many new friends and I cannot say enough about this experience. I would do another one tomorrow if not for the amount of money I would have to raise since it's not in my "nature" to ask people for money. Seriously considering waiting a year to do another. Then I won't feel so bad about asking for more money :)" - Anonymous

"I had the most rewarding experience being a part of such a fine organization!! I am proud to wear my purple and proud to be a alumni now since I have completed my first event. I hope there are many more events in my future!!!" - Anonymous

"As a previously non-runner I was scared to death of failure. The entire 4 month TNT experience taught me to re-define failure and more importantly how to re-define success. It transformed me physically, spiritually and emotionally. It did the same for my wife and 3 children as they watched me grow. I learned what it truly means to be part of something bigger than yourself and was able to share that experience with so many wonderful people. Being a part of TNT is no doubt the greatest team I have ever been on or ever will be on. In 2 words?Life Changing!" - Howard McDill, Asheville, NC

"Here's not so much a story, but memories:
1- When John said run back and forth if you see an alligator, was he really serious?!!!
2- Thank goodness my mom was there. She had to write my name on my shirt, and help me put on my shoe tags. My hands were already shaking Friday night!!!
3- Don't try to be "cool" and drink water as you're running through the water stations. I think that only works for "professional runners"! I learned this quickly after the 1st station!
4- When runners start running opposite from you b/c they have already made the turn, remember what you're doing. You're supposed to still be running instead of slowing down to look for purple jerseys to say "go team" and hot guys coming your way! (I slowed down a bit when this was happening; it's like I couldn't do two tasks at once!)
5- When your toenails hurt afterwards, that's a good sign your going to lose at least 2 nails...does that make me a "real" runner now?!
6- As you're running and want to stop, remember your team hero. I was already feeling emotional towards the end and when I saw Jake's picture, I just cried and said, "I'm going Jake. I'm almost there for you!" And I did...I finished which was my goal.
7- And finally, enjoy the fancy hotel room. Baths might be my new favorite thing! :)" - Bethany Gribble, Asheville, NC