This weekend I competed in the swimming portions of two triathlons to raise awareness of, and funding for research into, dystonia and Parkinson’s disease. All proceeds will go to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.
Saturday was a sprint triathlon, where I swam 300 yards in Long Island Sound, and teammates Scott Rudin and Randi Gewirtz did the bike and run, respectively.
Sunday was a longer Olympic-length tri, where I swam 1.5 kilometers (just under a mile) with my teammates Bob Nelson (bike) and Yong Ih Kim (run).
Both fundraisers were organized by Allison Hersh London for Team Defeat Dystonia.
There were many fabulosities. To wit (with photos):
To learn more about dystonia, its connection to Parkinson’s, and Team Defeat Dystonia, you can read Ali’s recent guest blog post for the Michael J. Fox Foundation.
Bruce (swim) – 30:36 (0.9 miles)
Bob (bike) – 1:27:58 (25 miles)
Yong (run) – 58:14 (6.2 miles)
What did I learn from all this? Basically, I can still compete in open-water races, even though I have Parkinson’s disease. Doing the mile swim today was completely fun. I felt great in the water and, frankly speaking, could have done another mile right away. That’s how I felt physically and mentally.
It was also great to hang out with friendly athletes and event coordinators.
I loved it.
If you’d still like to contribute, please visit my Team Fox “Parking Suns – Bruce Ballard” donor webpage:
click HERE!
Your financial support will help enormously!
Bruce, you’re the best. Can’t wait to see you!
Bruce!
You never fail to amaze us all. You are such a driven person both mentally and physically. There was no doubt in our minds that you would not do well in this challenge. We congratulate you and your teammates.
Linda & Kevin
Bruce! Wow, Wow, Wow!! What a marvelous achievement for any 62 year old. You certainly are an amazing driven, and now content athelete. Congrats on a reward well deserved.