NATHAN BARTELS

• San Luis Obispo, CA
• Age: 30
• Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at age 14

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

• 1st place RAAM 2007

MEET NATHAN BARTELS

When were you diagnosed with diabetes?

I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 14.

How do you feel about diabetes now?

Diabetes is a big part of who I am. I have learned a lot from its difficulties and by harnessing the adversity. I am, with out a doubt, a better, stronger and more equipped person as a result of having diabetes.

Tell us about your life at home. Are you married?

I am blessed with a lovely wife.

Why is exercise and competition a part of your life?

I am by nature a competitive person. I also believe that the mind and body are organically one. As Gearg Sheehan put it, a waste of the mind is a horrible thing, the waste of the soul is worse, and it all begins with the waist of the body.

What drew you to Team Type 1?

The opportunity to be a part of a positive message in a community where there is still a lot of negativity. TT1 is an amazing platform to show what is possible by harnessing adversity.

Tell us about an athletic achievement that you find especially significant.

Winning Race Across America in 2007 when so many thought we would not even finish. RAAM is a great platform that many people, cyclist and non cyclist can relate to.

If there is one piece of advice you could give to someone who was newly diagnosed with diabetes– what would it be?

Success is built on fear frustration and hardship. We all have to deal with stuff, how we deal with it is what matters.

Tell us about your favorite TT1 event to date.

RAAM with 7 other people who have diabetes. It was the most difficult, fun, and beautiful experience of my life.

Tell us about an athletic goal you have for the short term – say within the next year.

Success in some Ultra trail running races

Nathan, thank you for taking the time to talk with us.

Thank You.