Athlete: Jerry Nairn

Born: 3/13/1959, Brookville, PA
Raised: Silicon Valley and Santa Cruz, CA area.
Current Location: Chandler, AZ
Triathlon Start: May 2009
Specialty: Running long
Education: BA Computer and Information Sciences
Profession: Software Engineeer

Until recently, running was my primary athletic activity. I've run 49 marathons and 5 ultras.
I've been a type 1 insulin-dependent diabetic for over 35 years, and a runner for a little longer. Although I've been running for a long time, I only started running marathons about 10 years ago. Before that, I had thought managing my blood sugar for a competition that long would be too difficult, and dangerous.
Once I was convinced I could do it, though, I went for it, and got hooked.
Ever since I first saw an Ironman competition on TV, I had wondered if some day I could finish one. Some diabetic friends I met through Insulindepence and Triabetes convinced me I could do it in 2009, at Ironman Arizona.
When I signed up for IMAZ last November, the only bike I had was a fat-tired commuter that I never rode. I could not swim 25 yards without stopping. But I'm well on my way now.
This is a personal challenge I'm taking on for myself, and for any other diabetics, or anyone else, facing doubts that could limit their enjoyment of life.
I feel very fortunate to have Tim as a coach. His positive attitude is infectious, and he's giving me the workouts I need.

Triathlon Career:
* DNF Tempe International Sprint May 2009
* MOP Scottsdale Lifetime Fitness Indoor Tri June 2009
* DFL Mountain Man Sprint July 2009

Running Career:
* Over 200 races in the past 10 years.
* 49 marathons.
* 5 ultra marathons.
* Honored to be a Triabetes Team Captain, 2009.
* 2nd OA, 1st AG, 2006 Arizona Road Racers Grand Prix Race Series.
* Boston Marathon qualifier in 2007.
* Marathon Maniac #361, Iridium level.

Blog: http://t1d-runner.blogspot.com

Affiliation in addition to Excel and Beyond:
* Triabetes: http://www.triabetes.org