Name: Michael Barbeau

Nickname: Barbs

Age:36, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario

Residence:Sault Ste Marie, Ontario

St. Joseph Island Triathlon Events Participated in:

2008 – Olympic Triathlon

2007 – Sprint Triathlon

2006 – Volunteer

Tri Coach: Paul Milosovich and the Internet

Favourite Discipline: Swim

Most Embarrassing triathlon / duathlon moment:

“It would have to be the first St. Joe’s Sprint that I attempted.  I awoke early enough the day of the race and ate a large, healthy, protein packed breakfast thinking that the hour drive and two hours that I gave myself before the race that I would have time to digest and use the men’s room in relative peace and quiet.  Little did I calculate that with the combination of adrenaline, nerves, protein and one Port-a-Potty that my luck was running out for a quiet pre-race routine.

Needless to say I survived  the ‘potty line’ and was able to enjoy my accomplishment of finishing the St. Joe’s Sprint Triathlon.  I have sinced learned that all of the races that I have competed in have the same “line up and individual sprint to the potty.”"

Favourite piece of training / racing gear:

“I would not be able to train without my tunes .  . . my ROVON running hat and my short little buddy, MILO.”

Motivation:

“I have multiple motivators for putting myself through pain each year.  Firstly, to ensure that all the young people especially my step son and niece see the need to be healthy and active throughout their life span.  It is also a great way to meet different people and network outside of the main sports.

It allows my buddies and I to remain competitive, and have an excuse to have a few summer beverages.

And most importantly to support our community and those who strive to do great things . . . and Sherri and her team have provided a great weekend for all ages, fitness levels, businesses, sponsors and athletes.”

Achilles Heel:

“Age and finding time.”

Energy Drink of Choice:

“Bud Light”

Comment:

“Originally I began triathlons as a dare from a few work colleagues.  I trained on my own with no real schedule or training process, and I was frightened out of my mind about what “Race Day” was going to be like as I had never experienced anything like it before.  Other than golf, all of my accolades came from team sports. 

After my first race was finished and I realized that not everyone was a professional, I was amazed at the regular ‘weekend warriors’ (kids, non-athletes, the ageless) who were competing for their own reasons; health; enjoyment; competition; new direction and many more, and I was extremely touched and overwhelmed by the nature of the people who attended as participants, volunteers and spectators  . . . it was amazing.

I just want to thank Sherri and all of the sponsors, volunteers, and participants who make this weekend such as success.”