Meet Kevin Lessard, a Charity Athlete for Run3rd Alliance!
What events have you done (or do you plan on doing) with R3A?
I completed Ironman Hawaii 70.3 in 2022, and plan to race again in 2023. I just completed Barn Burner 100 mile mountain bike race in September, and I will be racing in Dawn to Dusk and Mountain to Fountain in December. Next year I will be doing the Mesa Marathon again, Cactus Man Tri, and Merrill Ranch Tri.
Why did you want to become a charity athlete with RUN3rd Alliance?
I’ve been doing Triathlons for 11 years, and I’m happy that now I can do them for a great cause. I loved the idea of turning my hobby and sport into something I could fundraise for and was passionate about. When I heard about Run3rd I knew it was the perfect fit for me.
What was your motivation to run? How or why did you start running?
It started when I couldn’t run. I had Valley Fever when I was 17 and couldn’t run, exercise or do much else. When I was able to move and run again, I told myself if I was capable of running I wanted to do it. For as long as I could run and move, I wanted to. I also have job that is, at times, mentally difficult and tough- running, biking, and swimming is a great outlet for me and important for my mental health.
How do you “make time” for running and fitness in your daily life?
Honestly, it takes a lot of family team work right now while my kids are young- I have a great support system at home. It’s also beating the sun when I have to. Sometimes, I have to put on the headlamp/lights and get outside before and after the sun.
What lessons have you learned in your running or fitness journey?
A path with no obstacle probably doesn’t lead anywhere. It always ends, so enjoy it.
Greatest challenge in your running and fitness journey so far?
My biggest challenge so far was the 100 mile mountain bike race, racing for 8.5 hours is mentally challenging on top of already being physically challenging.
Favorite R3A event you’ve participated in?
Definitely Hawaii 70.3 (Half Ironman)
Some FUN CHIT CHAT ABOUT YOU!
Favorite Food: Most Fish
Last TV show you watched: The Office and Game of Thrones
What’s your Coffee Order? Black, occasionally I add a splash of Caramel or Irish Cream
Best Vacation you’ve been on? My honeymoon, we went on a cruise to Belize, Honduras, and Cozumel
Best Advice You’ve been given? In regards to racing- you’ve already put in the work, race day is your celebration so enjoy the experience.
For more information on how you can become a charity athlete click here!
Follow Kevin Lessard’s charity athlete instagram here
