From the Couch to the Finish Line

YPO Triathlon Experience kick-off hosted in Winnipeg

Five-time world triathlon champion Simon Lessing, Olympic bronze medalist Lynn Kanuka, and CEO Challenges owner Ted Kennedy traveled to Winnipeg, Manitoba on April 13 to meet with a YPO Forum group that has taken on the task of going from the couch to the finish line of the Los Angeles Sprint Triathlon in September.

"I definitely saw a lot of what I call ‘deer in headlights' looks coming back at me on Wednesday night as we unveiled the program," stated Kennedy.   "However, I think once they realized the support we were providing, and we had a chance to get on the track and in the pool, the comfort level rose considerably.   By Thursday night they were anxious to get on with their new training program, and already throwing down some ‘smack talk' about the September race."

The YPO Triathlon Experience program is a new venture for CEO Challenges.   For the past 11 years the company has been the leader in sport competitions for CEOs, welcoming hundreds and hundreds of CEOs across triathlon finish lines all over the world.   This new program is developed specifically for YPO Forum groups that are looking for a totally unique, life-changing program for an upcoming Forum retreat.

The program focuses specifically on people who never swim, bike, or run, let alone ever thought about competing in a triathlon.    It literally will get them from the couch to the finish line.

"At the end of the day, we were absolutely thrilled with the launch of the program to the YPO Forum group in Winnipeg, and the feedback from the members was incredible," Kennedy said.   "Over two-thirds of the participants in the program rated it as Exceeded or Far Exceeded their expectations, and the testimonials are very powerful.   There is no question we will be changing lives with this program, and launching many of the members on a lifetime pursuit of health, wellness, and fitness."

James Umlah of the Winnipeg group stated that Lynn, Simon and Ted, "did an unbelievable job, and we all had a fantastic time.   This program has incredible potential, and there is already tons of buzz around YPO."

How it Works

YPO Forum groups work with CEO Challenges to pick a sprint distance triathlon (typically 400-yard swim, 12-mile bike, and 3-mile run) at a time and in a location of their choosing for an upcoming Forum Retreat.   CEO Challenges sends in a team about 5 months ahead of time to motivate, inspire, and educate the Forum group members, and provide them with the tools necessary to get started on the journey.   The 2-day kick-off includes presentations from world experts and sport champions, a walk / run session, time at a local bike shop to discuss equipment options, a swim session including stroke drills, and detailed explanation of the sport of triathlon and what's required.   Customized coaching plans are available, and a local coach is hired to facilitate a number of group training sessions leading up to the race.

If your Forum group is looking for an extremely unique activity for an upcoming Retreat or Meeting, please contact Ted Kennedy at 720-222-3043.

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Feedback from the YPO Triathlon Experience

Winnipeg, Manitoba - April, 2011

The overall kick-off program:

• 1. Did not meet my expectations = 0
• 2. Met my expectations = 33%
• 3. Exceeded my expectations = 44%
• 4. Far exceeded my expectations = 23%

Testimonials

"I enjoyed the running.  I don't consider myself to be a runner, and felt that I could learn to enjoy it."

"Ted and his team were very friendly people who answered every question."

"I am looking forward to this adventure.  Thanks to James for convincing us all to do this!"

"The personal coaching was excellent."

"The best part of the program was listening to Lynn Kanuka and Simon Lessing's experiences in competition."

"FANTASTIC!  I'm really pumped!"

"There was world-class talent teaching the program!"

"You did a nice job of ‘keeping it simple' for us amateur athletes."

"I'm certain the YPO Triathlon Experience program will only get better for you.  It's a real privilege to learn from you."

"I'm excited to take on a goal I never ever considered."

"The instructors are a real inspiration."

"It is great that I have a sense of comfort that I can do this!"

"I had a great time, and feel energized and ready to roll."

"I'm really looking forward to the journey, and to celebrating with the team on September 25^th."

"If you are curious about triathlon - without question this is the program for you."