Expert Chicago Triathlon, Swim, Bike & Run Coaching Team

Certifications: USAT Level 2 & Training Peaks Level 2 Coach

Specialization: Long & short course triathlon, Ironman, bike and run training

A lifelong athlete, Jim's journey took him from high school track and soccer to becoming a USAT Level 2 Certified Triathlon Coach. With qualifications in the Ironman 70.3 World Championship and Boston Marathon under his belt, Jim's own competitive spirit fuels his dedication to coaching. Since becoming a coach in 2014 and founding Grit Endurance in 2020, he's been committed to transforming lives through endurance sports. From guiding newcomers to their first 5K to leading seasoned athletes to PRs at the Ironman distance, Jim revels in turning athletic dreams into achievements. His ultimate joy? Witnessing athletes cross the finish line, the pinnacle of their hard work and dedication. Get to know Coach Jim a little more here!

Certification: USAT Level 1 Coach

Specialization: Swim technique, Ironman, and long & short course triathlon

Jason's journey in the water began at age 6, evolving from a competitive high school swimmer to a USAT Level 1 Certified Coach with a knack for fine-tuning swim techniques and enhancing triathlon performance. Not only has he tackled triathlons from sprints to full Ironmans, even earning the badge of a sub-hour Ironman swimmer, but Jason's true talent shines in coaching. He dedicates himself to transforming swimmers into confident athletes, focusing on technique as the foundation for success. Jason's ability to mentor and guide triathletes to surpass their goals and "feel the water" sets him apart. Under his guidance, you'll not just improve; you'll redefine your limits in swimming and triathlon.

Certification: USAT Level 1 Coach

Specialization: Long & short course triathlon, swim, bike and run training

Brian seamlessly transitioned from a competitive swimmer and runner to a triathlete, inspired by his wife's participation in the Chicago Triathlon. When she raced the Chicago Triathlon in 2007, he cheered her through the swim and ran most of the 10K with her and was instantly hooked! As a USAT Level 1 Coach, he brings his experience of competing in every distance from sprints to Ironman and multiple marathons, including USAT Nationals and World Championships qualifications. Brian's coaching philosophy emphasizes maximizing training effectiveness amidst life's demands while ensuring the journey remains enjoyable. Most of all, Brian wants to make sure his athletes have fun while smashing their triathlon and running goals! Read a bit more about Brian here and how Brian has helped his athletes here!

Certification: USAT Level 1 and RRCA Level 1 Coach

Specialization: Long & short course triathlon, Ironman, marathon and run training

Whitney found running during her doctoral program as a way to clear her mind and manage academic stress, but it quickly became something much bigger. What started as an outlet turned into a passion, then a lifestyle, and eventually a calling to help others discover what they’re capable of. Since then, she’s completed over a dozen marathons and is working toward becoming a Six-Star Marathon finisher. Whitney’s love for endurance sports naturally expanded into triathlons, taking on both Iron(wo)man and 70.3 distances and embracing the challenge of going longer and pushing further.

Before joining Grit Endurance, Whitney served as a long-time pacer and site coordinator with the Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA), helping build a vibrant running community and guiding countless athletes to the finish line of the Chicago Marathon.

As a USAT- and RRCA-certified coach, Whitney brings high energy, intention, and a thoughtful approach to her coaching. She believes training should push you beyond your comfort zone, and that who you become in the process is just as important as race-day results. Get to know Coach Whitney a little better here!

Certification: USAT Level 1 Coach and US Masters Level 1 Coach

Specialization: Swimming, Long & short course and Ironman triathlon

While he competed in his first triathlon on a lark at Age 17, he truly discovered the sport as an adult almost by accident. Seeking a local group ride led him to a great community that encouraged him to do hard things, culminating in his first Ironman in 2019, the same year he ran his first marathon. Todd fully believes in the power of community to unlock the potential for all athletes and has the OG Grit Endurance gear to prove it.

Todd brings this community focus to his interactions with athletes. Recognizing that training is a commitment regardless of experience level or race distance drives Todd to leverage the athletes’ inherent strengths while addressing any current deficiencies. Todd’s coaching philosophy greatly benefits new triathletes as well as those looking to “level up” in distance and those who commit to training while balancing a busy lifestyle.

In addition to holding a Level 1 USAT Coaching certificate, Todd is a lifelong swimmer and US Masters Swimming certified coach. With a particular focus on beginner to intermediate swimmers, he ensures that athletes are first and foremost comfortable in the water. Todd engages with athletes by encouraging small changes to body position, stroke timing, and breathing technique that drive large results in efficiency and endurance.

Certifcation: USAT Associate and RRCA Level 1 Coach

Specialization: Long & short course triathlon, Ironman, marathon and run training

After a childhood of playing competitive soccer, Sarah found that endurance running was a natural transition for her as she entered adulthood. Sarah quickly found that marathon training was an excellent way to take care of her mental and physical wellbeing. When the pandemic started, Sarah found herself going on longer bike rides and lake swims as a way to get out of the house and connect with others. Sarah got the triathlon bug and joined Grit Endurance to train for her first Ironman. To date, Sarah has completed three full distance Ironmans as well as numerous 70.3, Olympic, and Sprint distance triathlons. As a therapist, Sarah loves supporting others as they work toward self-understanding and improvement. Sarah’s experience as a therapist, avid endurance athlete and certifications through USAT and RRCA have all helped her develop a unique set of skills to holistically support athletes as they work toward achieving big, scary goals.