“At the start of this year, I couldn’t swim (okay, I could doggy paddle and tread water, but that’s it). In August, I completed the Olympic-distance Chicago Triathlon. Grit Endurance, particularly the swim lessons, is the reason I was able to confidently make it across the finish line. I started lessons in February after spending January splashing in the pool alone with a kickboard and pull buoy. I knew I needed real instruction in order to make it 100 meters, much less 1,500 on race day. Each week during lessons, Coach Todd helped me learn how to swim properly — from my catch and kick to experimenting with how often I should breathe. Each workout built on the previous, which helped to steadily build my skills and my confidence. It was also helpful to be able to share a lane with others who were near my skill level, we were able to commiserate about how humbling swimming can feel at first, and support each other as we became stronger swimmers. The whole club is welcoming, serious about the work and ready to show up for each other. I came in hoping to survive the swim, and I finished the season with a community I’m proud to be part of. ”

Marissa Nelson, Chicago Triathlon Finisher