By Kyra Oliver
The feeling of finishing something you never imagined you could do is an emotion that goes beyond words for many Richmonders. The pain and effort of training for a duathlon or triathlon requires patience, tenacity, and commitment. And most important – trust. You have to trust that your training will get you to the finish line.
Laurie Mehler, the director of Richmond Multisports, has emerged as one of the area’s favorite athletes and promoters of the triathlon and duathlon community in recent years. Mehler, who served as the president of the Richmond Tri Club from 2001 to 2003, launched Richmond Multisports in 2004 as a way to bring well-organized, professional racing to the region.
Now offering some of the popular races throughout the year, Richmond Multisports continues to add to its calendar and serve as a resource for all things ‘athlon related. “It’s in my blood,” smiles Mehler. “I love to see people decide to start racing, one step at a time. I also love coaching people wherever I can help … especially in the pool, open water, and [on the] track.”
Mehler has been a competitive runner since age 12 and competitive swimmer since age 8. When she received a bike for Christmas in 1990, she wasted little time in participating in her first triathlon less than a year later. Mehler has now competed in triathlons for 21 years and she transfers that knowledge to those she meets at Richmond Multisports.
An element that is critical in racing, she says, is ensuring that the race itself is well managed. Richmond Multisports, therefore, strives to keep it simple with a primary focus on safety, followed by strong partnerships and plenty of opportunities to educate athletes through training and clinics. “We believe in honest relationships and hold our integrity at high levels. For us, the races are one big outdoor sports party. It’s all about fun and enjoying the ride and the journey, not just the destination.”
As triathlons gain more and more attention as one of the top growth individual sports in the country, Mehler says that her organization will be ready. “I really get touched by people and inspired by what the athletes accomplish. I always get emotional at the Children’s Hospital Power Kids Tri and Commonwealth Sports Medicine Pink Power Triathlon” She pauses, and adds, “Well, I can get teared up at any of the races depending on what I see, really. There is story after story from athletes that have overcome weight issues, low self-esteem, physical challenges, and the fear of swimming or biking.”
Mehler says that some of her favorite local stories include parents who have inspired their kids to race, people who have overcome alcohol issues, and the many bonds that have been formed among daughters and mothers, fathers and sons, grandparents, and roommates. Mehler says that while Richmonders are all very different, “We still are all going in the same direction … the commitment of getting together for a positive goal and new lifestyle.”