Brenda Gustin

Name: Brenda Gustin

Former Competitive Roller Figure Skater Regional and National Champion 13-18 years old. Took a break for approximately 10 years and then developed an interest in Group Exercise Classes. Became an Instructor in 1995 and Taught Step Aerobics, Hi Low Impact, BodyPump, Kickboxing, Senior Fitness and settled into my favorite, Indoor Cycle. During that fifteen year period, I went back to School at Orange Coast College and also received my ACE Certification for Personal Training, which I also enjoyed doing. I have been and continue to be involved in the Fitness Community. I also volunteer with some Adaptive PE Students from OCC, who have become my friends more than students.I also enjoy volunteering and Participating at CAF Events. I have been a Certified Scuba Diver since 1988 and hold a Rescue Dive Cert as well as a Dive Buddy Cert for Handicapped Scuba Association(finished in 2010)

So why did I get involved with IronDistance Triathlon? I experienced a couple of life changes. One, I lost my brother to Prostate Cancer. In some ways, I guess that woke me up to my own mortality. Two, that same year, I turned Fifty. I felt I need to experience something way bigger than myself. I had the desire to see what I could endure. My brother had to endure so much pain and suffering and was far braver than I could ever be doing an IM, but, I just felt the need to have that goal. My experience in my first Iron Distance race was Vineman 2010. It was not only the most satisfying physical challenge, it was an emotional release like I have never experienced. Even though my brother lost his battle with cancer, I felt his spirit with me to the end of that day. The countryside seemed more vibrant. I enjoyed the occasional chat with other participants. And never once thought I would quit.

Now I want to do another with the mantra of NEGU….And needed an Awesome Coach to get me prepared for it. Maybe I can be a little more competitive this time:)

And….BTW…I am Happily Married to Roy Gustin, with whom I enjoy doing some of my training rides.