Troy Willard
Ultra Endurance Mountain Biker

Age: 32 years old

Age diagnosed: 15

My most vivid memory of my diagnosis:
Learning in my high school Health class that I had all the symptoms. After my blood test I was immediately admitted into the hospital to monitor my sugar levels and to learn about my new disease. Doris, my nurse, illustrated a 3 legged milking stool with insulin, diet, and exercise representing the legs. She reminded me that in order to live healthy I must stay on all 3 legs.  Most importantly my parents were very diligent in changing their lifestyle and eating habits to help me better manage my diabetes.

Family: Married to Cathy, my greatest motivator we share our house and dinner with Houser and Sydney, our beloved dogs  

Current A1C: - 5.8

Goal for next A1C: - 5.8 or less

Riding Experience:
I began riding mountain bikes my freshman year of college,1999 I realized I finally found my niche and what I would do for the rest of my life to stay healthy and have fun. I purchased my first road bike in 1994 and rode my first century two weeks afterwards. I moved up to Sport class in 1997 and Raced almost every weekend for 4 months straight with many top 5 finishes. The past 5 years I have found a love for ultra-endurance mountain bike rides/Races.

• 2006 2nd place in Baker's Dozen Mountain Bike (MTB) Race- solo category
• 2005 1st place- Bakers Dozen 13 hr. MTB Race (3 man category)
• 2005 3rd place- Bakers Dozen 13 hr. MTB Race- solo category 2003
• Numerous finishes in 100 mile MTB Races/ epic rides

Training Regime / Racing regime:
12-25 hours per week training time; short rides/ commuting during the work week, long road or mountain bike rides on the weekends. Running/ weight training/ pilates/ yoga for cross training  

Job/employer:
Special Education Teacher for students with intellectual disabilities ; Varsity Lady Knights Head Soccer Coach Evans High School, Evans, GA

School attending/attended:
Georgia College & State University, Milledgeville, GA Bachelor of Science degree- Special Education Master of Education degree- Learning Disabilities  

What do you enjoy most about being a diabetic?
Showing others that we (diabetics) can live a normal healthy life full of adventure and competition. Pushing myself to the limits and proving that there are no limitations in life with diabetes.  

Most memorable event (pre- or post-diagnosis), sporting or personal:
 It's very difficult to pick just one memorable event, it's not possible for me. I would say that any day I am on my bike is a memorable event, especially those days when I am riding a new trail or course that I've never raced or ridden. The last few pedal strokes of any ultra-endurance Race or epic ride clearly keep me coming back for more. The day I met my wife, Cathy, is my most memorable personal event. She keeps me honest, motivates me, and is the best advocate I could ever have.  

Give us a few words of wisdom, some personal advice…Everyday is a new day, it is never too late to take charge. Once you accept what you've been given you can move on and focus on a healthy life. Diabetes has been the driving force that keeps me going daily. Think of it as a competition, only you are always the leader and can control the outcome.

Copyright 2006 - TeamType1 - All Rights Reserved
"Curing Diabetes One Mile at a Time