North Texas
Dallas, TX 75251
Old Meet Our Coaches
The North Texas Chapter's Team In Training® (TNT) coaches are experienced and dedicated. As you train for your endurance event, they will guide and encourage you, helping you to achieve or exceed your goals. Read on to learn more about the coaches. Fill out our online form for more information.
| Caron Abbe, DFW Metro Run/Walk Assistant Coach | ||
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"Welcome to Team In Training! I joined the Team in the Fall of 2006. I have fundraised and completed the Nike Women's Marathon 2006 & 2007, Vancouver Marathon 2007 and San Antonio Rock N Roll Marathon 2008. Since I joined the team, I have raised over $14,000.00. I am addicted! Thank you for having the courage to join the fight against blood cancers. Lace up your shoes and get ready, your life is about to change." | |
| Joe Bacon, Dallas Run Coach | ||
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"Welcome to the team! TNT is celebrating their 20 year anniversary and I am happy to have been involved for 10 of those years. My first event with TNT was in 1997 and after mentoring for a couple of seasons I became the Dallas Run Coach in '99. I've run 29 events with TNT and love coaching runners to accomplish the goal of running an endurance event and watching them achieve that goal. I've run the Boston Marathon twice along with 56 other marathons. Sharing the joys of running is one of the great privileges in my life." | |
| Anthony Berticelli, North Cities Triathlon Coach | ||
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"I started with Team In Training in November 2005 and completed my first triathlon (St. Anthony's) in Spring of 2006. Since then, I have been a part of the TNT family as a mentor and captain, and have now been coaching since 2007. Although an avid athlete both in college and after, I came to TNT as a true beginner, with no formal swim, bike, or running experience, and this is a great example of how captivating and addicting the sport of triathlon can be. I have raced for three years and completed Ironman Florida in 2008. I'm looking forward to sharing my knowledge and experiences with you! Team In Training will change your life as it has mine. My best piece of advice is this: When training is hard, you're hurting, and you feel like giving up, remember how lucky you are to be able to do it, and how incredible the feeling is when you reach your goal. Don't ever give up!" | |
| Lawrence Bittok, Fort Worth Assistant Triathlon Coach | ||
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"Hi y'all. I stumbled upon TNT while running at a park where for the umpteenth time since high school was trying to get myself in some semblance of shape, a task that never lasted more than a couple of months at a time and I was sick and tired of getting sick and tired. So after seeing the crowd, the cheering, the purple and the flier on my windshield, decided to check it out. I signed up for a Half-Ironman in 2006. Now, after being a team captain for a few seasons, I'm privileged to be a coach. The team is amazing, the coaching is tremendous, the mentorship is truly one of a kind, but meeting and in some cases swimming, biking and running with our honored heroes is quite honestly priceless. That keeps me coming back for more. I'm confident it will do the same for you. GO TEAM!" | |
| Billy Bough, Dallas Triathlon Coach | ||
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"I would like to first welcome you to the Team and then tell you a little about myself. I've been with TNT as a coach for a couple of seasons now and was a participant before that. I'm close to 50 but no where close to being over the hill. I never ran track, played football, or participated in any organized school sports growing up. But, I found a passion for triathlons and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society after 45. If you think you can't discover the athlete in you at any age I'm here to prove you wrong. Congratulations and welcome to your new adventure of a life time." | |
| David Burdette, North Cities Run/Walk Coach | ||
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"I have been with Team In Training since 2006 as a participant, mentor, and coach. I have trained for and completed 10 marathons, six half-marathons, and have coached many Team In Training participants to their own marathon successes. I am excited to be a part of the Team In Training coaching staff, and look forward to helping you achieve your goals! You will be amazed what you are capable of! Joining Team in Training is an experience that will change your life in ways that you never imagined, as well as change the lives of so many others. Congratulations on having the courage to take the first step toward accomplishing your personal goals, while also supporting the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in the fight against blood cancers. Training for an endurance event is a lot of work, but the rewards are phenomenal. I can't wait to see you cross that finish line!" | |
| Meg Burdette, North Cities Run/Walk Coach | ||
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"Welcome to the TEAM ! I am very excited to meet you, train with you, fundraise with you, and "carbo load" with you! You have already taken the first and hardest step - making a commitment to join our team. I have been involved with Team in Training since 2005, and had never intentionally run or walked a mile before then. Since then, I have raised almost $30,000, and have completed 12 marathons and 14 half marathons. I guess you could say I'm hooked! This is a wonderful program that saves lives and changes lives. Thank you for joining us. Your life will be changed by this experience!" | |
| Kathy Calkins, DFW Metro Run Coach | ||
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"I started with the team in the Fall of 2005. I've fundraised and participated in the Nike Women's Marathon in 2005, 2006, 2007 and Vancouver 2007, along with many half marathons all over the state of Texas! I have been a coach with the DFW Metro team since 2007." | |
| Carlo Capua, Assistant Ft. Worth Run/Walk Coach | ||
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"One day some college friends asked me if I wanted to go to Hawaii. They didn't mention that I would have to raise $4,000 and train for a marathon (that was scheduled during finals week!) Needless to say, crossing that finish line was the most inspirational experience of my lfe (and yes, I graduated). Nine marathons and ten triathlons later, I am a firm believer that Team In Training leaves people better that when it found them. Plus, people invest their money all the time; why not invest a little in your body?" | |
| Albert Chavira, Ft. Worth Cycling Coach | ||
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"I began my Team in Training experience as a mountain biker by completing a mountain bike ride in Moab, Utah in 2003. Since that time, I have completed 5 cycling events with TNT including Moab (2004), Tahoe Century (2004, 2005), El Tour de Tucson (2005) and Solvang Century (2006) and logged thousands of training miles for TNT! I have been certified by the Team in Training national coaching program and I recently served as Coach for the 2008 summer season. I earned my triple crown this year by completing a triathlon, a century ride, and a marathon with TNT. Welcome to the TEAM! | |
| Todd Codish, Dallas Triathlon Coach | ||
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"I have been a triathlete since 1988! After 20 years of racing and coaching, and coaching over 1,300+ triathletes to their first triathlons, I have had the pleasure of watching everything triathlon has been and become for most of its history. Team In Training was started in 1988 but the triathlon program was not started until 1999, when a group of chapters all got together to roll out the sport in TNT. I have watched our program grow to heights I never really expected and I have to say that I am proud to be a part of what we do and we do it well. Afraid? It's normal, but don't be! Our coaches are among the best in the business. I invite you to come along for the best training program for a beginner, the best destinations for races and great camaraderie with wonderful people for an exceptional cause. As an average athlete who has completed more than 250 triathlons, 39 marathons and five Ironman races, it has given me insight into the sport, but what really has been my education is the coaching of hundreds and hundreds of people, just like you, to their first triathlons." | |
| Tim Collins, Ft. Worth Triathlon Coach | ||
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"I have been hooked on triathlon since my first sprint. I found the experience so rewarding and the cause so worthwhile that I signed up again and then became a mentor for several seasons before becoming one of TNT's coaches. I have since participated in many races from sprints to half Ironman distances. I am an avid triathlete and TNT alumni. My excitement to give back to TNT by helping others achieve their goals whatever they may be is great for the future triathlete or the returning veteran." | |
| Joe Dann, Hike Coach | ||
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"Hike, Yes! The day I learned about TNT's hike program, I was hooked. I had found a way to challenge myself, get my exercise outside, discover new trails, and meet new friends - all while raising money for the LLS mission. Yes, there are great places to train and hike in North Texas. We know just where to find them. Yes, hiking is a great physical challenge. After several miles over rough trails, you realize this is no walk in the park. Yes, I trained for months last year and climbed to the top of Yosemite's harrowing Half Dome. When that was over, I could not see quiting. I joined again as Captain of a team training for the rugged Rocky Mountains in Colorado. For a non-athlete, I had really come a long way. I really knew I had accomplished something when, for the first time in my 45 years, somebody called me a "jock". I hope you will join us and make hiking your next big adventure." | |
| Philip De Young, DFW Metro Run/Walk Coach | ||
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"I started with Team In Training in the Summer of 2000. After serving as a participant and Team Captain for 2 years, I began coaching the DFW Metro team. I've completed events in San Francisco, Maui, Disney, San Diego and Dallas. In addition to coaching, I have run over 56 marathons in 23 different states with a personal best time of 3:16. " | |
| Suzanne Dunaway, DFW Metro Walking Coach | ||
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"When my mother was diagnosed with non-Hodgkins lymphoma, I decided to do something that could make a difference. In 2002 I singed up and completed my first Rock 'N Roll Marathon. I began coaching in 2003. Over the last seven years, I have completed five marathons and nine half-marathons. This has been a lot of fun for me but also for my two teenage daughters as well. When my oldest daughter turned 16 she told me, "ok I'm now old enough to fundraise for my own event." She completed North Trails in 2005. It's so much fun to see a participant go from the informational meeting to crossing the finish and their excitement when they realize all that they have accomplished!" | |
| Carrie Ghai, Dallas Assistant Run/Walk Coach | ||
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"I have been a Participant, Mentor and team Captain throughout my tenure with TNT starting in 2005, when I ran my 1st Half Marathon. TNT changed my life; it helps save lives, it provided challenges and lifelong friends: and I am proof that you can achieve anything you want to - at ANY age. I have completed several fundraising events for TNT including a Marathon, a Century Ride and a Triathlon. As a beginner to (all these events but especially) running I appreciated the coaching and I know what it feels like to have someone truly believe in you making it across the finish line. It started with running for me and so here I am: hoping my experience from humble beginner to coaching assistant will motivate and support to each and every participant I will have the honor to assist." | |
| Danny Henley, Dallas Marathon Coach | ||
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"Training for an endurance event with Team In Training does more than transform your body - it can transform your life. There is nothing like crossing that finish line in honor of those fighting leukemia and lymphoma, knowing that you helped raise the money that will help find better treatments and a cure. As a coach, I'm dedicated to helping you become physically and mentally prepared to reach your athletic goals while making a difference in the fight against blood cancers. I started as a novice athlete and completed my first marathon in 2001, so I know you can do it! Since then, I've competed in 14 marathons and numerous triathlons, and I completed my first Iron distance triathlon in 2007. Ordinary people can do extraordinary things when working together for a common purpose. Join our TNT family and transform yourself while helping to find a cure!" | |
| Russell Himes, Ft. Worth Running Coach | ||
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"I never considered myself an athlete before becoming involved with the TNT program six years ago. Since then, running is a passion and coupled with the challenge and the ability to contribute to the necessary research for blood-related cancers and change lives, I have arrived! I am starting my seventh season as a Fort Worth Marathon Team Run Coach. My whole week is centered around the day I get to put on my purple jersey and meet the team for an awesome time of running and fun. My goal is to create a training environment that is meaningful and informative - for the first-time runner as well as the seasoned veteran. To be allowed to share in each participant's success of crossing the finish line is truly remarkable!" | |
| Mike Horton, Dallas Assistant Running Coach | ||
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"Hola, TNTers! I started running with Team In Training back in 2004, spurned by a bet from a friend that I couldn't run a marathon. And in honor of my Dad, who I lost to NonHodgkins Lymphoma. Sixteen marathons later, I think I've won the bet, in more ways than I can count. And I can guarantee you this - there's no better group in the world to do your first marathon with than Team In Training. We'll get you ready and have a blast doing it. And, you'll become a hero to our local blood cancer patients that your fundraising supports. It'll be one of the most gratifying experiences of your life. Welcome!!!" | |
| Maile Hunt, North Cities Run/Walk Coach | ||
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"I completed my first Team In Training event in 2003 and was hooked! Making a difference in the lives of others is my passion. I have served the North Texas TNT Chapter as a mentor, team captain, and now a Running Coach for North Cities. TNT is a life changing experience not only for you, but also for the many families you will be helping through your fundraising efforts. I thank you in advance for all your hard work - training and fundraising- in order to help raise awareness and find a cure for all cancer!" "Running is the greatest metaphor for life, because you get out of it what you put in it." ~ Oprah Winfrey | |
| Alan Johnson, Mountain Bike Coach | ||
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"I have been a competitive cyclist, racing both mountain bikes and road bikes, since 1998. During that time I have coached several racers that have reached the top at the state level and that have competed at the national level. There is nothing I enjoy more than helping someone go above and beyond their wildest expectations. I am honored to join the Team In Training family and to have the opportunity to share my love of cycling." | |
| Stacey Johnston, Ft. Worth Triathlon Coach | ||
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"After I finished my first marathon, I stumbled upon Team In Training when I received a TNT flier in the mail. I decided to take a chance. Not only did it provide me with a team to be a part of, but it also gave me a means to do something in honor of my Grandmother. Approximately 20 years ago, my grandmother was diagnosed with lymphoma. She is a survivor and is still alive and well today. After my first season I was hooked and became part of the leadership team as a captain and a season later I became Fort Worth's Swim Coach. I have over 15 years competitive swimming experience and have coached all ages and experience levels. Now as head coach I am able to share my own experience and knowledge with you to get you across that finish line. The feeling is hard to beat and a life changing experience. I am proud to have you a part of the team and to be able to share this with you." | |
| Becky Kaye, Cycling Coach | ||
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"I did my first century ride with TNT in 2002 and it was such an amazing experience that I came back the next season as a mentor. Since then I have done nine century rides with TNT and raised more than $40,000 for the LLS. In 2006, when I was asked to be a coach for the cycle program, I was honored and excited about the opportunity. In 2007, I coached my first season and I am now starting my third season as a TNT coach. Being a coach and assisting others in reaching their goals and dreams is incredibly rewarding. I have met many incredible people through my TNT journey, some that will be lifelong friends and many that have changed my life forever." | |
| Marshall King, DFW Metro Walking Coach | ||
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"I started with Team In Training in the summer of 2003 and completed the Virginia Beach Rock 'N Roll Half Marathon. At the time I had no athletic experience, TNT changed that and has really transformed my life. I later served as a mentor for several TNT teams and began coaching the DFW Metro Team in 2007. Since starting with TNT, I have walked or run 28 half marathons, marathons and ultra marathons. But what I enjoy most is seeing my team members cross the finish line with a smile on their faces. I know how great that sense of accomplishment feels and love to see other people have the same experience. The best summary of my philosophy is: "Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself." | |
| Anna Love, DFW Metro Walking Coach | ||
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"In 2003, I accompanied my sister, a TNT coach from North Carolina, to the San Diego Rock 'N Roll marathon. Bruce Cleland, the "father" of TNT, spoke at the pasta party and said that he was missing his daughter, Georgia's, senior prom to be there with us. He explained that, if it wasn't for TNT and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Georgia would not be alive to have a prom. After hearing him speak, there was not a dry eye in the house and, although up to that point in my life I was a professional couch potato, when I got back to Dallas I signed up for my first event. I completed the Disney Half Marathon in January 2004. Since that time, I have completed four marathons and three half marathons with TNT and I've been a mentor, captain, and a Walk Coach. I can say that, without a doubt, TNT has changed my life. The knowledge and support that I received from being a TNT participant has been invaluable to my success as a race-walker and it has taught me about myself as a person. TNT is a program to help you succeed in training but, more importantly, it is a way for you to raise money to find a cure and to help the patients and their families who have been touched by one of the blood cancers." | |
| George Meza, Cycling Coach | ||
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"I did my first cycling event with TNT in the Spring of 2006, completing the Shiner 100 Mile Century. During that first season the team camaraderie and the spirit of finding a cure for blood cancers overwhelmed me. I knew immediately that I wanted to TNT to be part of my life. To date I have participated in 6 TNT Century ride events including, Shiner 2006, 2007, 2008, Lake Tahoe 2007, 2008, and Tucson 2008. I have held the roles of Mentor and most recently Team Captain for the Tucson Team. I am more excited than ever, as I have been selected to serve as one of the Cycling Coaches for the 2009 seasons. TNT has changed my life in many ways and I look forward to giving back as a coach and supporting the ongoing quest for a cure." | |
| Karen Miller, Dallas Walking Coach | ||
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"I got involved with TNT in the fall of 2000 when my college roommate was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma, who is now in remission and doing well. Since joining TNT, I have completed seven events; four triathlons, one century ride, one half-marathon, and one marathon. TNT is such a great organization. I have met many good friends throughout my years in TNT. This year, I have been lucky enough to be asked to help coach the Dallas Walk team. I look forward to helping you all cross the finish line. Welcome to the best season of your life!" | |
| Diane Mims, Dallas Walking Coach | ||
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"I started Team In Training in 2001 when I completed my first marathon, The Mayor's Midnight Sun full marathon. I went on to complete two more full marathons and continue to do two - three half marathons every year. I have been coaching for TNT since January 2003. I feel very passionate about our cause and helping participants get healthier. For many walkers, this is the first physical event they've accomplished and the first time they have successfully fundraised. Accomplishing an event with TNT makes you realize that anything is possible!" | |
| Cathy Nevans, Assistant Fort Worth Run/Walk Coach | ||
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"I love Team In Training. There is something powerful about purple! I have been a runner for many years, but I completed my first marathon as a Team in Training participant and returned as a mentor. Crossing the finish line as part of TNT is amazing. It feels like you have done something incredible for yourself, but it's so much more than that. You become overwhelmed because you have not only helped yourself, but as a part of the ?Team?, you are helping to find a cure for Leukemia and other blood cancers. You are giving someone else hope. Together with the coaches, mentors, and staff, I want to help make your TNT experience the stuff dreams are made of. It's not everyday that you get to be a part of finding a cure, but as one of the warm and truly wonderful people that make up our great ?Team? you can!" | |
| Katie Nicknish, Dallas Assistant Running Coach | ||
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"I began my TNT experience shortly after I lost my dad to non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. I started out with the triathlon team and continued on to complete an Ironman then began training with the marathon team. I have raised money for several triathlons and marathons through TNT. Having completed over 10 marathons, a 50k trail run and several more races scheduled for 2009 I am excited to share my knowledge and love for TNT with other future athletes." | |
| Raymond Powers, Dallas Triathlon Assistant Coach | ||
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"I began my journey with Team In Training in the Fall of 2006 and have been a part of the leadership team as a captain or a mentor ever since. I, like so many of you, joined TNT as a beginner. I had not swam, ran, or road a bike in the same day since I was a kid, and even then it was not one after another. Since joining TNT I have met so many wonderful people and have made some really great friends, all while making a difference in peoples lives. I know that when I first started with the team I never thought I would be doing an Ironman, much less 2 in one year! Thanks to the friends I made and the training I received I will be doing Ironman Florida in November 2008 & Ironman Coeur d' Alene in June 2009. So, if you are new to the area or just looking for a challenge, this is the perfect place for you. Welcome to the team!" | |
| J.J. Pueblo, Ft. Worth Walking Coach | ||
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"In May 2002, I completed the Vancouver Marathon, 26.2 miles. I will never forget the feeling of triumph and humility I felt at that moment. I came away from that event knowing that I had a power I had never felt before. My attachment to TNT / LLS continued as a mentor then a coach. I am hooked for life on TNT and the value it brings to patients, families, research, participants and volunteers. People join for different reasons; sometimes they have a personal tie to LLS or they want to "get in shape" or achieve a personal goal. During training, a change takes place. Focus changes as you become involved with the TEAM and the TEAM goals. The personal stories are shared and the reality of the blood related cancers impact on lives become evident. TNT is my family, my hobby, my job, my personal interest and my personal fight against blood related cancers. What other hobby gives you great friends, travel, exercise, lots of purple stuff to wear and does so much good for so many?" | |
| Chris Richardson, Ft. Worth Assistant Triathlon Coach | ||
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"When I started with TNT I had never run more than a mile in my life, never biked more than 5 miles, and could barely swim a lap in the pool. I smoked a pack a day and was rapidly gaining weight from my desk job. I made the decision to try it out and since then I have completed 2 TNT events and raised $10,000. I've also successfully completed 2 Half Ironman triathlons and a full Ironman triathlon. I've been a mentor for the team 3 times and a captain twice. From humble beginnings in the program, I have now become a coach and couldn't be happier with my decision. I look forward to working with all of you!" | |
| Manuel Rodriguez, Ft. Worth Run/Walk Coach | ||
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"I have been a part of TNT for 10 years. I consider it an honor to be associated with such a fantastic organization as this. I have run 50 plus marathons. I ran my first marathon in 1987. As coaches we are continually being educated to help our team accomplish their goals. I run and train with other coaches in the area to gather and exchange training tips. It is my passion and goal to see you reach a new level in your life. We will be there every step of the way. We have outside resources to help in every area of running; from running stores to physical therapists. Welcome to the team!!!" | |
| Rich Rose, Abilene Marathon Coach | ||
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"My first introduction to Team in Training was in 2002 when my wife signed up to run the Dallas White Rock Marathon. Being a past runner, her involvement with a "Team" is exactly what I needed to get back into the sport. As it happens regrettably all so often, once we got involved her mother received word she had lymphoma. Her courageous battle defeating this disease is what kept us going all through the campaign and well beyond. I have completed seven marathons, six half marathons and countless 5k and 10k races and managed somehow to remain injury free (knock on wood). Personally, one of the most awesome sites in a marathon is seeing all the purple shirts and trying to envision what each one went through to get where they are, it truly is inspirational!!! Best of luck everyone; we are all truly part of something big." | |
| Neil Sobol, DFW Metro Running Coach | ||
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"Being a participant, mentor, and coach, I know from personal experience that joining Team In Training will be an amazing, life-changing experience. As part of this program you will accomplish goals that you probably never thought you could do, you will make many new friends, and most importantly, you will help raise funds and awareness to help people afflicted with blood-related cancers. I have been a marathon coach with TNT since 2001, and during that time it has been my privilege to help so many runners and walkers obtain and surpass their goals. I welcome the opportunity to help you." | |
| Rick Tidwell, Dallas Assistant Running Coach | ||
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"Welcome To Team In Training! I have been with TNT over six years completing nine marathons and one century bike ride. Running is my passion and I feel privileged to share this with you as an assistant coach. You are about to embark on an unbelievable experience, meeting life long friends which result in life saving benefits." | |
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| Rodney Wagner, Ft. Worth Triathlon Coach | ||
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"Triathlons have become a part of my lifestyle. I started training for my first triathlon back in 2002. Since then, I've done more than 20 races, ranging from Sprint distance to Half Ironman races. I've been lucky to be associated with TNT since 2002, and am now heading into my second season as one of the Fort Worth Triathlon Coaches. I am excited for the opportunity to share in your triathlon experience. It will be a lifelong change from start to finish. GO TEAM!" | |
| Kathy Walton, Dallas Run/Walk Coach | ||
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"I became involved with Team In Training as a fundraising participant in December of 2003 training for my first half marathon. I joined the TNT coaching staff in 2004 and have had the privilege of coaching seven seasons for the marathon team I am currently run and race-walk certified by Team In Training. Being a part of this team is truly a blessing! Team In Training is a fantastic journey where you will meet friends that will last a life time, experience things you never imagined, and accomplish something that will have a lasting impact on your life and the lives of others. Welcome to the TEAM!" | |
| Laurie Weeks, North Cities Run/Walk Coach | ||
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"Congratulations on becoming a difference maker in the lives of others, as you learn something more about yourself! I completed my lifelong goal of running a marathon as I ran the Disney Marathon back in 2000. 20 marathons later, I'm still at it. I run for those who cannot run themselves, and you will too. You will be inspired by many, and you will inspire many in return. I look forward to working with you as we begin our journey together. Welcome to TNT!" | |
| David Woolcock, Cycling Coach | ||
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"Welcome to Team In Training North Texas, I'm David Woolcock. What an exciting time you are going to have reaching your goal of riding in a Century event (yes, 100 miles). I started cycling with TNT in 2005 training for my very first Century in Solvang, CA. I was new to road biking and wanted to improve and learn more about riding. Through months of training and the great support of TNT, I was able to complete my very first Century event. While training I was able to help make financial contributions to LLS through fund raising to support a great cause. After the event, I went on to join a local cycling team and I now enjoy racing. I am in my third season of racing. I joined the TNT coaching staff in 2007 working with the Solvang 2008 Team. I look forward to helping you achieve your cycling goals. Welcome to TNT Cycling." | |
