Student Profile
Brian Farr, an adult degree student from San Diego County's "Teton" cohort, recently competed in the "Ironman Triathlon World Championships" in Kona, Hawaii.
The competition consisted of a 2.4 mile swim, followed by a 112 mile bike ride, followed by a 26.2 mile run.
Brian's weekly training regimen consists of swimming 6.5 to 8.5 miles, biking 180 to 220 miles, plus running 48 to 60 miles! Saturdays are affectionately called "Brick Day" because Brian bikes 110 to 120 miles, followed by an 8- to 10-mile run.
When asked what motivates him, Brian responded:
"I believe God directs me and I always try to go. At the beginning of my triathlon journey, I felt directed toward this goal. I had no reason to believe I could ever qualify and get to Kona, Hawaii based on my race results early on.
Besides running in high school, I did not have a sports background to excel in triathlon. As a matter of fact, I had done very little physical activity, when for some reason I decided to go for a run. During that run, out on Pacific Coast Highway, the Holy Spirit filled me and I felt as though I was running effortlessly through the air. Suddenly, so many confusing things in my life became clear, including this journey I had to take.
Sometimes it all feels a bit maddening, then I feel the presence of the Lord, and I press on. When I am out there racing, I seek His guidance in some of the deepest and most intense prayers I have engaged in. I do not pray to win, but rather to serve the will of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Truly He is everywhere within this crazy 'endurance race' called life."
Brian was selected to represent the "Degree Ironman Team" as a sponsored athlete this year. As a member of the team he is required to race in at least six events, which can include any distance triathlon. He states that team members receive free race, cycling and casual apparel, as well as discounts on many accessories: "Most importantly … deodorant! … to keep me cool and dry and smelling good throughout the day"!
In addition to being a Biola student, plus working full-time in a family-owned business, Brian is also a single-parent of his teenage daughter. He states, "through all the madness of training and anxiety of racing, Natalie has shown patience and understanding like no one else in my life. She truly has been an inspiration in my life and in my walk with the Lord."