Welcome to Beyond the Finish Line: Athlete Spotlight Series
At Lake Whatcom Triathlon, we celebrate not only the incredible athletic achievements that take place during race day but also the inspiring stories of determination, resilience, and passion that drive our athletes. "Beyond the Finish Line" is our way of shining a light on the unique journeys of the people who make our event so special.
Check out our Beyond the Finish Line Athletes:
Jonathan Schroeder
Why/How did you get into triathlon?
This will be my first time trying a triathlon event. I have run a marathon and cycled before, but never put it all together (with swimming). If I end up enjoying it, I want to push it to the limit and aim for the Ironman. In short, I look for opportunities to challenge myself physically, and this is one of them.
What does it mean to you when you cross the finish line?
Crossing the finish line to me is confidence. It is confirming the belief I have in myself that I can accomplish anything. It reinforces habits, training, and motivation as it is proof that it all pays off.
What is your favorite part of the Lake Whatcom Triathlon?
I am looking forward to the new experience as a whole
What is your goal for this year's Lake Whatcom Triathlon?
To do my best and complete my first variation of a triathlon
Why did you sign up for the Lake Whatcom Triathlon specifically?
It is close to my hometown, so my family will be watching, and I am competing with a friend
If you had to choose one sport, would it be swim, bike, or run?
Anything but swim
What is your go-to post-race meal?
Texas Roadhouse
Dwayne Kemp
Why/How did you get into triathlon?
I'm originally from a small town in South Africa called Port Elizabeth. For the last 20 years, the Ironman African Championships have been held here, and every year it's a massive occasion. Road closures everywhere, and people lining the streets. I used to watch it on TV every year and followed it all day. I was amazed at the stories of the age groupers and the sheer power and determination of the pros. I got to a stage in my life, with work and family, where I was very unhealthy, overweight, and depressed, and I decided that things needed to change. We had triplets 5 years before me started on my triathlon journey, and as you can imagine, no time for anything else but diapers, feeding, burping, and working. Things had to change. Not just for me, but for my family to have a dad in the future. I started training with a friend who always wanted to do an Ironman but didn't have the motivation. I was motivated and we started training. In 2017, we did our first 70.3 and the rest, as they say, is history.
What does it mean to you when you cross the finish line?
Race day and crossing the finish line is the reward for all the early mornings and time away from my family doing something that saved my life and keeping me healthy so I can be there for my wife and triplets (now 13 years old) for years to come.
How has triathlon impacted your life?
It has taught me that anything worthwhile in life takes sacrifice and hard work and that just makes it taste much sweeter.
What are you looking forward to in the Lake Whatcom Triathlon?
I heard that the crowds are amazing. Looking forward to the cheers and support, and hopefully motivating someone to be a better version of themselves.
Why did you sign up for the Lake Whatcom Triathlon specifically?
All the reviews were good, and I need to find out for myself.
What is your go-to post-race meal?
Burger and beer.🍔🍺
Jim Ostendorff
Why/How did you get into triathlon?
The first triathlon I ever did was the 2007 Lake Padden recreational division. I had done multisport races in the past, including the now-defunct Ridge to River relay in Wenatchee. 2006 was a tough and transformational year for me. I had started a new job in Lynden and was experiencing a good deal of stress with that. I decided I needed an outlet and joined the Homestead Fitness Center. I began the routine of swimming or running during my lunch hour and found that the stress was eased greatly, and I was just happier with "having to be in Lynden." Not sure why, but I made a visit to Train or Tri, got some gear, and decided to enter the Padden Triathlon to test myself.
How has triathlon impacted your life?
It has forced me out of bed early in the morning to put on a cold wetsuit and jump in the lake, knowing I will be one of the slower swimmers. It has driven me to show up after a full day of work to ride with a group, knowing I will be one of the slowest riders. It has pushed me out the door to go for a run knowing it may really suck for the first 1 or 2 miles before finding my stride. Ultimately, it has taught me about the power of momentum, the power of group energy, and the power of doing something that allows me to escape my brain and feel truly present and alive!
What is your favorite part of the Lake Whatcom Triathlon?
The sun rising on Lake Whatcom's swim course.🌅
What is your goal for this year's Lake Whatcom Triathlon?
To be healthy and do it. I just broke my ankle on Presidents Day at Baker.
Would you rather forget your goggles or socks during a triathlon race?
Easy one, socks.
If you had to choose one sport, would it be swim, bike, or run?
Run🏃
What is your go-to post-race meal?
Something salty and beer🍺
Robin Richards
Why/How did you get into triathlon?
This is a way to connect with my family and to celebrate and honor my Aunt Susie, who passed away last year from cancer. She was an incredible athlete, always inspiring us all to stay active. She frequently competed in triathlons and other endurance races; we know she will be there with us in spirit.
What does it mean to you when you cross the finish line?
I will feel proud and so grateful for the ability to challenge my body this way. Exercising enough to complete a triathlon will represent a big life change for me for the better and be a major accomplishment.
How has triathlon impacted your life?
I needed this goal to help get myself back into a regular exercise routine, which I’d lost sight of in the last several years.
What is your favorite part of the Lake Whatcom Triathlon?
The scenery and the gorgeous course!
What is your goal for this year's Lake Whatcom Triathlon?
Finish!🏁
Why did you sign up for the Lake Whatcom Triathlon specifically?
The race falls on my Aunt Susie’s Birthday weekend. Maybe we’ll start a family tradition to celebrate her this way every year…!
Would you rather forget your goggles or socks during a triathlon race?
Goggles! I don’t like seeing underwater anyway!!
What is your go-to post-race meal?
A chocolate milkshake
D.J. Austria
Why/How did you get into triathlon?
I did my first Triathlon in 2000 at Hagg Lake, West of Portland, Oregon. I battled many overuse injuries, and thought it was time to add more to outdoor activities besides running. It was also time to stop coaching wrestling
What does it mean to you when you cross the finish line?
There have been times in my life when I could not race or train due to injury, illness, or I could not financially afford to enter races, so showing up is a big deal, finishing is a reason to celebrate, no matter how the race ends up. Triathlon has become big enough that it's always fun to celebrate all the racers and volunteers.
How has triathlon impacted your life?
Fitness isn't health, but they are related, so for me, triathlon has helped me stay healthier than I would have without it. I also changed careers to be closer to the lifestyle. I was a cubicle person until I decided, while running, that I should become a Massage Therapist. One of the best aspects of being in the sport is interacting with so many people from different backgrounds. The sport has enriched my life beyond expectations
What is your favorite part of the Lake Whatcom Triathlon?
I like seeing familiar faces along the course, so the out and back sections are fun, and I usually get passed on the run leg, so that's another part I get to see people.
Why did you sign up for the Lake Whatcom Triathlon specifically?
It's a beautiful course, it's not a PR course, both appeal to me.
Would you rather forget your goggles or socks during a triathlon race?
Socks, I usually don't wear socks until the run.
Norm Wong
Why/How did you get into triathlon?
A few of my friends got into it about 10 years ago. I said maybe I can do that as well. I've always dreamed of doing an Ironman since little while watching on TV. I thought that would be so cool but yet I knew it was also so difficult. Triathlons have given me strong discipline, work habits, overcoming challenges, and believing nothing is ever too impossible. However, most importantly, it's the bond and development of friends that we all know we have to put in the time and training to do well or get through an event, so the journey is worthwhile.
What does it mean to you when you cross the finish line?
Regardless of the distance or event, every time crossing the line means I've left nothing in the tank and that I've given all that I can give on this particular day and race with no regrets, regardless of the outcome.
How has triathlon impacted your life?
I use the principles of working hard and staying focused in my everyday life and work. I truly believe that hard work pays off, and I will try to remind my kids of this frequently. At the age of 53, I feel fairly fit, and that life is vibrant. My cross-training and off-season training consist of yoga, spin class, total body conditioning, and circuit training sessions, along with belonging to a running club. Triathlon has kept my mind and body sharp. I don't know how much longer I'll be able to maintain this training, but I'll keep at it for as long as the body allows me to.
What is your favorite part of the Lake Whatcom Triathlon?
The bike leg
Why did you sign up for the Lake Whatcom Triathlon specifically?
It's not a big event, but more of a community feel.
What is your go-to post-race meal?
Fried Chicken
Megan Ware
Why/How did you get into triathlon?
A friend and I decided to Danskin Tri way back when because we were both athletic and competitive in high school and college.
What does it mean to you when you cross the finish line?
When I cross the finish line, it means I’ve achieved a goal, expended a lot of energy, enjoyed the roads that led me to the event. As I’m aging it also means I’ve just done something great for my body and mind.
How has triathlon impacted your life?
Triathlon has given me back an athletic community, a motivation to improve, and a great reason to exercise.
What is your goal for this year's Lake Whatcom Triathlon?
To be faster than last year, on the run, those darn stairs😉😩
Why did you sign up for the Lake Whatcom Triathlon specifically?
The family run/ community feeling.
Would you rather forget your goggles or socks during a triathlon race?
Socks hands down!
If you had to choose one sport, would it be swim, bike, or run?
Swim
Audrey Perkins
Why/How did you get into triathlon?
Participating in this triathlon represents the beginning of a new chapter after a long period of navigating loss, grief, and uncertainty. Over the past 8 years I've lost both my parents, one unexpectedly and the other to cancer. I set aside my career, professional growth, and social networks to help my family. I struggled with and overcame an eating disorder. I wrestled with a victim mentality that wanted to always think, "why me?". Despite the anguish, I surrendered to the process. I allowed myself to be not ok. I gave myself permission to be gentle to myself, hoping one day, not too far off I'd be back to normal. Interestingly, back to normal hasn't come, but something better has taken it's place. Through patience, self-compassion, and a superbly supportive network of friends and family, I have left behind an old book, began a new one, and am now writing the first chapters. Lake Whatcom triathlon is a story within these early chapters of resilience, hope, and the will to thrive despite the challenges of being human. I am embracing a new version of myself that nurtures my well-being in a proud and sustainable way. I can't wait to compete with all the amazing participants! We each have a unique story to tell. Thank you for this opportunity!
What does it mean to you when you cross the finish line?
Crossing the finish line will mean the end of an early chapter in a new beginning.📖
What is your goal for this year's Lake Whatcom Triathlon?
To complete the race and support the community I'm competing with.
Why did you sign up for the Lake Whatcom Triathlon specifically?
To embrace an authentic comeback to well-being and what it means to thrive.
Luke Kiely
Why/How did you get into triathlon?
Back in high school, I was on the swim team and did cross country. I figured I could start biking a bit and give triathlons a try. I first did the West Point triathlons because they were the closest to me. I got to do one with my dad too, which was really nice.
How has triathlon impacted your life?
Triathlons are nice because of how long they are and the type of training. I train on my own, and it gives me a lot of time for self-reflection and looking at problems from a different perspective while also getting fit. Even though I train alone, the community around every race is always so inspiring, and that feeling of being a part of something can really last throughout the year.
What is your goal for this year's Lake Whatcom Triathlon?
Get through the run in under an hour.🏃⛰
If you had to choose one sport, would it be swim, bike, or run?
Swim. I find swimming really relaxing.
Lisa Taranto
What does it mean to you when you cross the finish line?
So much. I had doubted myself so much prior to starting this journey, so each time I cross the finish line, I feel motivated to improve and just keep challenging myself.
Why/How did you get into triathlon?
My sister and brother in law competed in triathlon but I never thought it was something I could do. After moving to Washington in 2022, I struggled with finding community. I saw a request for volunteers for the 2023 Lake Whatcom Triathlon and signed up. I had so much fun the Friday night before I showed up to help again on the race day, and I stayed all day to help. Seeing the event and athletes was inspiring for me to try something I felt I was not good enough for. I immersed myself into training and whatever social experience I could within the local tri community. After a few races in 2024 I was hooked.
What is your favorite part of the Lake Whatcom Triathlon?
The end when I get to celebrate with friends and their successes
What is your go-to post race meal?
Pepperoni pizza and a sour beer🍕🍺
Jon Rader
How did you get into triathlon?
In the summer of 1983, I competed in my first triathlon, the Hi-Line Triathlon in Havre, Montana. Then life took over. My triathlon days faded into memory, a chapter of my life I assumed was closed. That changed in 2018. A close friend in Bellingham, Washington, told me about the Lake Whatcom Triathlon. I looked it up and felt an old spark reignite. Could I do this again, after nearly 40 years? There was only one way to find out. I jumped back into training, determined but unsure of how my body would respond. At 54, I competed and placed 8th. I was hooked.
Through it all, the Lake Whatcom Triathlon remains my favorite. Its stunning scenery, physically demanding course, and exceptional organization set it apart. The swim through pristine waters, the challenging cycle route, and the exhilarating run through the park (and incredibly steep stairs at mile 4) make it a true test of endurance. But what truly makes this race special are the people—the dedicated volunteers, professional race officials, and fellow athletes who create an atmosphere of camaraderie and support.
What is your favorite part of the Lake Whatcom Triathlon?
The bike course!🚴
What is your go-to post-race meal?
My infamous taco salad: homemade dressing, greens, shredded carrots, onions, tomatoes, chili: beans, brown rice, cubed NY steak, hot sauce, avocado, and crushed corn chips on top.🌮🥗
Tamara Uldrich
Why did you get into triathlon?
Doing a triathlon has always been on my bucket list. This will be my first triathlon and I wanted to do it because I am turning 40 this year!
What does it mean to you when you cross the finish line?
It means that I am capable of finishing something that I started and I will not give up and to show that to my children. Dedication pays off.
What is your goal for this year's Lake Whatcom Triathlon?
My goal is to complete the sprint distance triathlon.
If you had to choose one sport, would it be swim, bike, or run?
I would choose running, I absolutely love to trail run.
Felix Erfurt
Why/How did you get into triathlon?
My wonderful wife saw an advertisement in early 2016 for a Triathlon event in Vancouver, so she 'made' me sign up because she knew my love for the sport back home in Germany.
I was instantly hooked again. Then I signed up to challenge myself for a Half Ironman in 2017.
Repeated this in 2018 and raced in some Olympic events.
Why? Mostly for my mental health, challenge myself, and just the love for endurance sports. It improves my quality of life, especially when you cannot control things on the outside. It fills my bucket!
What do you love most about the LWT?
I found the Lake Whatcom Triathlon in 2019 and to this day it is by far my favorite event.
The people and organization are top-notch, and the after-race food is superb. Race Photos are great and overall, they are incredible value for money.
What is your go-to post-race meal?
Tacos are great along with some Chocolate Milk.
At home, I then like to finish the day off with a good cold German Beer.