Be Our Next Athlete Spotlight!
We love celebrating our incredible athletes! Do you have a story to share—your journey, challenges, and triumphs? We’d love to feature YOU in our next newsletter!
Want to inspire others? Email [email protected] for more details. Let’s showcase your hard work and dedication!
Here are some of our incredible athletes and their stories:
Alex Gasper
“Meet Alex: Triathlete, Future Doctor, and Your Next Inspiration”
My name is Alex Gasper, and I am a 25-year-old first-year medical student from Pittsburgh,
Pennsylvania, attending the Florida International University College of Medicine. I had the wonderful experience of taking part in Integrity Multisport’s Miami Man race. “ I had a great time at the race and was happy to have my first age group win!
I have always been goal-oriented and love competition through sports: baseball, football, swimming, and wrestling. When looking at colleges, I wanted to play baseball and pursue my dream of becoming a physician, so I attended the College of Wooster in Ohio. Aside from some youth triathlons and childhood swimming, I had no background in endurance sports.
After graduating college and ending my baseball career, I faced uncertainty. I moved back home, studied for the MCAT, applied to medical school, and worked as a medical assistant. During this time, I realized I missed having a competitive goal. A high school friend who completed an Ironman 70.3 told me about me triathlons. Being as competitive as I am, I thought, “Why not me? I had knee surgery to run, bought a used TT bike, and tapped into my swimming background. Since then, triathlons have become a passion.
In my first year, I completed Ironman 70.3 Chattanooga and Ironman Lake Placid. I was also accepted into FIU College of Medicine and moved to Miami, the perfect opportunity to race with the best, Integrity Multisport. I have competed in two of their events and this is just the beginning of many more to come. Triathlons have helped me adjust, stay competitive, and make new friends.
Training during medical school is challenging, but I balance it by doing flashcards during Zwift rides and listening to medical podcasts while running. I aim to train 14–18 hours a week. I have dreamed of becoming a physician to impact others’ lives, so why not do the same through triathlons? With that said, my next goal is to start racing for a cause. I am blessed to have the ability to live out my dreams,
“See you soon at the next race!”
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Larry Tomsic
Meet Larry: From Records to Triathlons: A Lifetime of Resilience”
When I was young, I was always on the move—full of energy and a love for sports. My high school 880-yard record lasted an impressive 33 years. As a dad, I had the joy of watching my three sons play sports, cheering them on from the sidelines. Over time, however, my active lifestyle took its toll. After tearing my left knee meniscus twice, I knew I had to pull back from running. Determined to stay active, I bought a used Trek bike for $400 and discovered triathlons. It was a life-changing decision.
Two years into this new journey, I was surprised to find that running just twice a week gave me faster 5K times than when I ran six days a week in the past. My first triathlon was the May 2001 Marco Island Sprint, and while it left me completely exhausted, I was hooked. By my third race, I earned my first award. By my 13th race, I won my age group while wearing bib number 131—a palindrome that I had a feeling would bring me luck. Since then, palindrome bib numbers have often felt like lucky charms.
At my peak, I trained 11 hours a week and kept meticulous nutrition. But life threw its curveballs. During the 2013 Las Vegas Half Marathon, a foot injury sidelined me from running for two years and from triathlons for four. Slowly but steadily, I made my comeback. My 100th race was the Integrity Multisport Key Biscayne Sprint on August 22, 2021. By 2024, I completed my 120th triathlon at the Miami Man (112 sprint and 8 Olympic-distance events). I’ve raced in five Integrity Multisport events and love them! Through it all, my proudest accomplishment is never having a “Did Not Finish” (DNF) in over 500 events.
There were plenty of challenging moments along the way. I crashed my bike during the Madeira Beach race, cramped up in the final mile, and even hit a raccoon with my bike during the Ft. DeSoto event. The Key West Olympic-distance race taught me to respect and check race-day temperatures. And then there are the inexplicable moments: Why does a slow race leave us feeling so defeated, while a great race can make us feel like we’re walking on air?
Each race has its own story. Once, I left my helmet in the car, wasting four precious minutes retrieving it amidst pre-race confusion. No matter how many races you complete, every starting line brings something new. Over the years, a few habits have kept me grounded and motivated. I photograph my medals, swag, and cool shirts. I even turned some of my favorite shirts into pillows. I donate my least favorite shirts and old shoes to charity, and I proudly hang my medals—a quiet reminder of the journey.
I’m especially grateful for my incredible wife—my “badass sherpa” and biggest cheerleader. We met when I was a photographer for the GCR, and she’s been by my side ever since. Before every race, I say a prayer, asking God to protect all the athletes. On the days I’m not racing, I give back by volunteering—a different and rewarding perspective on the sport.
At 71, I’m thankful every day that I can still race and compete. Even more, I’m grateful for the lifelong friends I’ve made along the way.
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CT Wike
My Journey as a Triathlete: Every Body Can Tri
2025 marks my third year as a triathlete, but the journey began in January 2021. I woke up after a festive holiday celebration feeling less-than-amazing. When I stepped on the scale, it read 503 pounds. I couldn’t believe it. Growing up, I associated such a weight with circus performers or professional wrestlers—not a regular guy like me. That moment was a wake-up call. I knew I had to change my life, so I started walking as often as I could. Over time, as my confidence grew, I learned about a local 5K race and decided to give it a shot. I finished dead last, but the sense of accomplishment and competition hooked me.
One day, a neighbor challenged me to try a triathlon. It sounded absurd. Most bikes have a weight limit of around 300 pounds, and I didn’t even know where to start with swimming. But I was determined. I found Zize Bikes, which builds bikes that support up to 550 pounds, and turned to YouTube to learn how to swim. My training began in my apartment’s tiny 12-yard pool—it took 73 laps to make a mile! By 2022, I was competing in as many local 5Ks as I could find, tweaking my diet, and building friendships in the sport. I still didn’t have a clear direction, but I was making progress. Then, in 2023, I took a huge step: I quit drinking. As a beer enthusiast, this was a major life change. But the space left by alcohol became an opportunity to fill my life with healthier choices and dedicated training.
I knew I needed guidance, so I reached out to Leo Briceno, a coach who helped me refine my swimming skills and prepare for open-water races. He taught me about race transitions and how to plan for race day. But my first triathlon didn’t go as expected—the swim portion was canceled due to bad weather. I was devastated. I had told everyone I was going to be a triathlete. Leo encouraged me to keep going and suggested the Integrity Multisport Fort Desoto Trilogy series. I signed up for the next two races and was hooked. The course, insulated from city traffic, gave me the perfect environment to grow as an athlete. I have completed six Integrity Multisport events and will continue.
As 2024 began, I reached out to Matt at Bicycle Accident Law, whose banners I’d seen at Integrity Multisport events. He generously agreed to sponsor my racing efforts. Around the same time, I connected with Clydesdale Bicycles, which specializes in custom bikes for larger athletes. Together, we designed “Gliméra,” my titanium triathlon bike. In the third Fort Desoto race of 2024, I finally earned a spot on the podium. That moment was a turning point. Since then, I’ve announced my goal to compete in the Ironman 70.3 in Salem, Oregon, in July 2026. I’ve also partnered with new sponsors and found a dedicated coach to guide me.
Looking ahead to 2025, my goal is to qualify for Nationals in Wisconsin. And one of my biggest milestones? I’ve finally broken under 400 pounds. And, I would not be where I am today without Integrity Multisport Triathlons. My mantra is simple: “Every Body Can Tri.” Triathlons aren’t just for skinny people. It’s for anyone willing to commit, persevere, and find joy in the journey. I have finished dead last in several races, but I’m still here—and I’m getting better every day.
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Greg Gunder
What a Day! My First International Duathlon—First in Age Group 70-74!
Four years ago, at the age of 70, I stood at the starting line of my very first duathlon. I never imagined that moment would spark a journey that would redefine my life.
After moving to Florida in 2018, I found myself restless. Swimming in the pool wasn’t giving me the challenge or excitement I craved. I needed something more—something that would push me, inspire me, and keep me coming back for more. That’s when I laced up my running shoes, hopped on a bike, and started chasing a new dream.
At first, it was just about staying active. But soon, I wanted a goal, a purpose to drive my training. So, I took a leap of faith, hired a coach, and signed up for my first race: the 2021 Mack Cycle/Integrity Multisport Key Biscayne Duathlon. Little did I know crossing that finish line would be just the beginning. The thrill, the camaraderie, the sheer joy of competing—it all became part of me. One race turned into another, and before I knew it, I had completed 12 Integrity Multisport races across South Florida.
What makes these races truly special is the incredible community. The support, encouragement, and shared passion among athletes of all ages and abilities are nothing short of inspiring. The management team at Integrity Multisport and the title sponsor, Mack Cycle, have created something extraordinary—events that bring people together, no matter their experience level or background.
Now, at 74, I can say with certainty that these races have changed my life. My training schedule keeps me disciplined, focused, and driven. No matter the weather or how I feel, I show up. And each time I cross a finish line, I feel stronger, more confident, and more determined to keep going.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s never too late to start something new, set a goal, or push beyond what you thought was impossible. Age is just a number—it doesn’t define our limits, potential, or dreams.
So if you’re thinking about trying something new, don’t hesitate. Take that first step. You never know where it might lead. I’m already registered for 5 Integrity Multisport races for 2025. Will I see you?
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Dove Erich
“From First Triathlon to Podium Finish: How I Fell in Love with Triathlons and Learned to Thrive”
I was a competitive athlete in sports through high school, but after that, I floundered a bit trying to find a new way to stay active and fuel my competitive spirit. That all changed in 1998 when a friend introduced me to running. I fell in love instantly! Fast-forward to 2007, when—on a total whim—a friend and I signed up for a sprint triathlon. I had a blast and was completely hooked.
My first Integrity Multisport event was Miami Man 2024. Being from Ohio, I needed a warm-weather race to prep for Worlds 70.3 in New Zealand, and it was the perfect fit. Everything about the event was top-notch and seamless. From registration to communication with athletes to race-day logistics, Integrity Multisport truly puts on a class act. The event ran smoothly, and the positive, supportive vibe from fellow athletes made the experience even better. I especially appreciated chatting with local participants who had done the race before—they were full of helpful tips and encouragement.
When the airline refuses to check your bike because your bike box, specifically designed for air travel, was “too big,” you realize how grateful for Mack Cycle to rent me a bike for the race. I wish I could’ve seen what I was capable of with my own race bike instead of a basic rental road bike. Nonetheless, I’m thankful to have had a bike rather than none at all, and I’m proud of the effort that earned me 2nd female in my age group and 5th female overall.
It’s wild to think back to 2007 when I knew nothing about triathlons. Since then, I’ve learned so much, but one of the things I love about the sport is that there’s always more to work on and improve. Over the years, a few key tips have served me well:
- Set goals and make a plan to reach them.
- Join a triathlon club for guidance and camaraderie.
- Shop local—support your local bike and run shops, and they’ll support you in return.
- Dial in your nutrition during training, and while you should never try anything new on race day, be flexible and ready to adapt to unexpected challenges.
- Most importantly, stay focused, but don’t take yourself too seriously!
Support and encourage your fellow athletes, thank the volunteers, and high-five every kid who offers one. Trust me, it’s worth it!
Whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned triathlete, I highly recommend Integrity Multisport events. They truly deliver the full race experience—fun, supportive, and inspiring. I hope to see you out there!
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Annabelle Laurin
From Quebec to the Finish Line: My Triathlon Journey with Integrity Multisport
I traded the snowy landscapes of Quebec for the sunny shores of Florida after marrying my husband last June, and 2024 has been nothing short of an incredible adventure. My triathlon journey began in 2018, fueled by a bold dream—completing an Ironman. Seven years later, I haven’t reached that milestone, but I’ve discovered something even greater: an unwavering love for the triathlons and the electrifying thrill of every finish line (always celebrated with ice cream!).
The Game-Changer
Everything changed in 2019 when I joined ASC Coaching. They took me from a wide-eyed beginner to a competitor, guiding me through setbacks, injuries, and breakthroughs. From competing in the Age Group World Championship to winning the Coupe Québec (my age group’s state championship), every moment was unforgettable. And how could I forget finishing 70.3 Mont-Tremblant in a bride’s suit—just six days before my wedding? Now, my sights are set on more 70.3 races before taking the ultimate leap: a full Ironman, hopefully in Marbella 2025!
Racing with Integrity
This past year, Integrity Multisport has played a huge role in making my 2024 season extraordinary. I’ve raced four of their events, and each one has left me more impressed. From the adrenaline rush of Fort Desoto (with friendships on the podium and my furry friend got in on the fun!) to Miami Man with a trip to the zoo, to their top-notch organization, these races set the standard.
What makes Integrity Multisport stand out?
🏅 Athlete-focused experiences
📊 Physical proof of your finish time
🔄 Constant improvements based on athlete feedback
🎉 A welcoming community that makes every competitor feel valued
Lessons from the Journey
Success in triathlon—and life—comes down to preparation:
🏊♀️ Swim relentlessly
🔄 Perfect your transitions
🏁 Race for experience
💪 Trust your training
✨ And most importantly, believe in yourself
At the end of the day, triathlons aren’t just about medals or rankings—it’s about passion, perseverance, and proving to yourself that you can push past your limits. The podium & rankings? That’s just the cherry on top. See you at the next race! 🚴♀️🏊♀️🏃♀️
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Chase Kincer
From the Air Force to the Finish Line: How Integrity Multisport Changed My Game
I’m a 27-year-old Air Force veteran, entrepreneur, and lifelong athlete. Growing up, I played just about every sport—football, basketball, baseball—you name it. By high school, basketball and football became my main focus. After graduation, I joined the Air Force and spent the next few years serving my country.
But deep down, I’ve always had an entrepreneurial mindset. While in the Air Force, I jumped into real estate investing, and that’s when I met my business partner—a guy who just so happened to be deep into triathlon training. At the time, my love for the gym had faded. I had always been a gym rat, but my consistency had taken a hit. Then, out of the blue, I got a text that changed everything:
“Hey dude, if you’re a man, you’ll sign up for the Miami Man triathlon from Integrity Multisport. We’re doing the Olympic distance. You’ve got six months to get ready.” The competitor in me didn’t even hesitate. I signed up on the spot and fired back, “Okay, now what?”
From that moment on, he became my triathlon mentor. He walked me through the gear, the training, and the mindset it takes to compete. He had a four-month head start, and I’ll be honest—keeping up with him at first was humbling. Especially in the water. Let’s just say I felt like a dead fish.
But on the bike? I held my own. And running? That came naturally. I’m tall and lanky, so the stride was there—I just had to build endurance. We trained together every day, rain or shine, grinding for two hours. Even weekends weren’t off-limits.
Then came race day—the Integrity Multisport event in Miami. And let me tell you, I’ve never been part of a better-organized, more rewarding event. The atmosphere was electric. The camaraderie was real. The experience? Unforgettable. Integrity isn’t just another race organizer—it’s the gold standard. If you’re looking for a well-run, high-energy event that will push you beyond your limits, this is it. Spots fill up fast, so if you’re on the fence, sign up now. Trust me, you don’t want to miss this.
The biggest lesson I’ve learned… Accountability is everything. Having someone in your corner to push you makes all the difference. Triathlons are no joke, but with the right mindset and the right team, anything is possible.
If you’re thinking about diving into triathlons, do yourself a favor—sign up for an Integrity Multisport event. Show up. Stay consistent. Push yourself past what you thought was possible. And most importantly—just do it. You won’t regret it.
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Maria Armas
“From Obese to Team USA: A Life-Changing Journey of Resilience & Racing with Integrity Multisport”
A cold, rainy day in March 2015 found me in Lourdes, France, celebrating my 50th birthday at the revered healing waters. With the shrine nearly empty, I washed my face and asked my Holy Mother for help. Help with what? I wasn’t sure—perhaps everything. I was morbidly obese and deeply unhappy.
Days after returning home, my twin brother handed me a book. “Read this,” he said. “Our bodies were never designed to carry this much weight.” The book was The Obesity Code by Dr. Jason Fung. I distilled its message into simple rules: no sugar, no sweeteners, no snacking, eat only when hungry, and stop eating when your window closes. Could it really be that simple? Yes.
One hundred pounds later, in 2019, I entered my first Integrity Multisport Mack Cycle Key Biscayne duathlon and placed 5th. The atmosphere was electric—supportive, loud, and exhilarating. Encouraged, I pushed forward. By 2021, another 20 pounds gone, I earned my first 1st-place finish at the Mack Cycle 305—though I missed the podium, leaving early. Integrity Multisport mailed me the medal, confirming the win. Their races became instrumental in my journey, with 26 events since 2019, starting in AG 50-54. When not racing, I always volunteer, giving back to the Integrity Multisport community that had given me so much.
By 2023, down another 20 pounds, I achieved 1st in the Integrity 2023 Miami Duathlon Championship series. I also finished 7th at my first national competition, despite recovering from a cracked rib and torn labrum from the Dolphins Challenge Cancer ride. That finish qualified me for Team USA at the 2024 World Duathlon Championships in Australia.
Training intensified. If you wonder how exercise factored into my weight loss—it didn’t. When I was morbidly obese, I exercised intensely but got nowhere. The key was what and when I ate. Exercise, however, has become essential for toning, strength, and aging well. Training was also social, with groups like the Hammerheads, and events to keep me focused.
2024 brought new lessons. I signed up for the Key Biscayne Super Sprint but ran too far, forgetting the distance—running, meh. Again, I kept my 1st place title at the Integrity Multisport’s 2024 Miami Duathlon Championship series. I went to my second nationals in Omaha, I learned the challenges of flying with a bike and that my hydration plan was, well, terrible. A total of 145 pounds lighter, I raced at Worlds, only to cramp badly on the second run, dragging my leg across the finish line to place 19th, securing a world ranking of 34th.
So, what’s the takeaway? Ask for help, and when it comes, accept it. Follow with your head—where the head goes, the body follows. Seek micro-improvements, tweak, repeat. It’s amazing where a pair of sneakers and a bicycle can take you.
Pontevedra? Dale! – Maria Armas
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Phillip Goodwin
“Meet Phillip: Racing Through the Years: My Triathlon Journey with Integrity Multisport”
I first began training for triathlons in early 2009 at the age of 51. At the time, I didn’t know how to swim properly, so when I saw an advertisement for “Team in Training,” I jumped at the opportunity. I signed up for a sprint triathlon in Boca Raton, raising $1,700 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in the process. That same year, I also entered my first Multirace event (as Integrity Multisport was known back then) — the Tri-Miami Olympic Distance on Key Biscayne. Completing a 1,500-meter swim and conquering the bridge four times on my 20-year-old metal road bike was a true test of endurance, but I was hooked. That year alone, I competed in two duathlons and seven triathlons, culminating in my first (and only) half-iron distance at Miami Man.
While I have always been a stronger cyclist and runner, swimming has still been a challenge. Nevertheless, I’ve continued to compete over the past 16 years. Now retired, I have more time to train, though racing in my late 60s presents new challenges. When I’m not training, I give back to my community by coaching and supporting the girls All-Star soccer team.
I have been a proud member of Boca Raton Triathletes throughout my journey, though I primarily train on my own. Seeing the revival of Tri-Miami was exciting, and I even managed to clock a faster Olympic distance time than I did in 2009—winning my age group in the process!
Since 2009, I have completed 26 Integrity Multisport events—a true testament to how well-organized, safe, and enjoyable these races are. Integrity Multisport’s commitment to excellence is why I keep coming back, not just as a competitor but as a volunteer. I encourage every racer to experience the other side of the event by volunteering—it’s a great way to give back and earn race credits for future events.
In 2024, I competed in the 305 Olympic Triathlon on Key Biscayne, followed by all three Tri KB Sprint Triathlons. Though I missed Miami Man, I was one of 23 men in the 65-69 age group to complete at least one of the five sprint triathlons that made up the Miami Series. While four competitors in my AG posted better single-race results, my consistency paid off—I finished 1st, 2nd, and 3rd in my AG across three events, earning me the top spot in the Miami Series.
Key Biscayne is still one of my favorite race venues, with its typically calm waters, long straightaways, challenging bridge climbs, and breathtaking views. Whether racing or volunteering, my journey with Integrity Multisport has been nothing short of amazing, and I look forward to many more years of crossing finish lines with this incredible community.
