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Enjoy the Journey

    TEAM Blaze

           Spokane

The largest triathlon club in the Inland Northwest

Who we are

What is team blaze?

Team Blaze is a triathlon and multisport endurance community for athletes of all abilities in Eastern Washington. Since its inception in 2004, the club has been a non-profit organization.

Our members range in age from mid-teens to mid-70s. We participate in every distance of triathlon, running, cycling, and swimming events. Team Blaze provides a positive, supportive environment to help members develop a healthy lifestyle through group workouts, competing, and friendship.

Club athletes support local races through participation and volunteerism. We give back to the triathlon community and spread the positive Team Blaze message of support and encouragement.

How it all started

Who was scott roy?

“Enjoy the journey!” –Scott Roy
Scott and Tristin Roy founded Team Blaze Spokane in 2004.

Scott grew up in The Dalles, Oregon, where he was an athlete from an early age. He graduated from Linfield College with a degree in health and physical education. Scott filled his life with amazing travels and experiences, including backpacking in Europe after college. He taught middle school in Oregon and Hawaii. In Oahu, the Roy’s were involved with Team Jet Hawaii. When he and Tristin returned to the mainland, he worked as a health educator in Spokane. They loved the friends they made through triathlon and wanted to have a community like that here. They founded Team Blaze, and Scott served as head coach to the 200+ members of the team (and to many people around the country).

In 2010, doctors discovered Scott’s mitral valve was failing and he needed heart surgery. Later that year he received a mechanical valve and then went on to complete Ironman Coeur d’Alene for the second time. Scott’s journey ended April 29, 2012, when his heart failed (after cycling 66 miles earlier that day). His death deeply affected the close-knit Spokane triathlon community.

Scott was an amazing father, husband, and coach who always gave more than he took. We were blessed by his encouragement and generosity, and we remember his enduring words:

“Ultimately, we all only get one journey through life and although at times it may not seem fair or feel overwhelming, I truly believe that God has a plan for all of us. He doesn’t give us more than we can handle and through us we can share His love with others. I believe that He sends special people into our lives that help guide us, believe in us, and lift us back on our feet. I’m blessed to have so many of these amazing people in my life.”

Running the show

Who is on the board?

President: Rhiannon Leppert

I joined Team Blaze in 2017, six weeks after the birth of my husband’s and my 5th child. My favorite thing about Team Blaze is the friendships created and the support that comes from teammates. It is an incredible experience to see Team Blaze gear and kits at almost every race event. Whether you are the racer or the supporter, there is no lack of excitement or enthusiasm out on the course in the Team Blaze community. My favorite event is the Cd’A half Ironman. I have a special love for people that are struggling on the course because it isn’t easy for everyone; myself, included. Cheering extra loud and encouraging people who question if they can do this race – both during training and during the race – is my favorite! I believe anyone can, and this is the team to help you train for it! As the Director of Membership, I am a resource ready to answer questions about the team and what we have to offer, promote Team Blaze in the community, welcome new members, and encourage people to join the team if they are looking for a supportive, fun, diverse, accepting community of athletes. I get to know our team members and their personal goals. Not everyone wants to do a triathlon and that is okay! I connect you with the right resources to help you get started on your goals.

President: Rhiannon Leppert

I joined Team Blaze in 2017, six weeks after the birth of our 5th child. My favorite thing about Team Blaze is the friendships created and the support that comes from teammates. It is an incredible experience to see Team Blaze gear and kits at almost every race event. Whether you are the racer or the supporter, there is no lack of excitement or enthusiasm out on the course in the Team Blaze community. My favorite event is the Cd’A half Ironman. I have a special love for people that are struggling on the course because it isn’t easy for everyone; myself, included. Cheering extra loud and encouraging people who question if they can do this race – both during training and during the race – is my favorite! I believe anyone can, and this is the team to help you train for it! Enjoy the journey!

 

Vice President: Dan Greer
I started my Triathlon Journey in the Summer of 2019 and joined Team Blaze for the 2020 Season, which was not the best year to start. I joined because I had knee surgery and wanted to try something other than just running and would have less impact on my knees. I had no idea what I was doing, realizing very quickly I did not really know how to swim and riding a bike for distance is much harder than it looks. Joining Team Blaze was the best thing I could have done because everyone was so helpful and provided so much support and tips to help me continue to improve. I have grown immensely since joining and owe it all to the support and training from Team Blaze. By joining the board I hope to be able to give back as much as I have received from this team.
Finance Director: Jonathan Brown

My name is Jonathan Brown – I go by John and I love the outdoors and
camping with my family.  My passions are biking and running.  These
are two sports that challenge me every day. I never had a love for
swimming or even a desire to learn how to swim until I signed up for
my first Olympic Triathlon at Priest Lake, ID in 2021 and had an
amazing experience even though I placed 143 of 152 in the swim.  I
quickly realized I needed to learn how to swim before attempting my
first 70.3 distance Ironman.  I met these really cool dudes swimming
at the pool and they talked me into joining Team Blaze in 2022.  I
completed my first 70.3 Ironman in 2022 in Coeur D’ Alene, ID and I
have signed up for the Full Ironman distance in Coeur D’ Alene, ID in
June 2023.  I love Team Blaze because it creates a space for everyone
to learn, practice and execute with other likeminded athletes of all
strengths and talents.  I look forward to creating many more memories,
learning everything I can about Triathlon and supporting as many
athletes as I can through their journey. I would like to express my
gratitude for my wife Chantel for supporting me behind the scenes
through my journey.

 

 

Secretary: Megan Steeber

I joined Team Blaze in 2013.  I’ve done sprint distance, Half Ironman and Full Ironman races. I’ve been everywhere from 2nd place in my division, to the last person across the finish line, to being pulled for missing time cutoffs, and everywhere in between! I love that Team Blaze is inclusive to people of all ages, sizes, and abilities. I love to support people reaching their goals, and cheer them from training course to race course to finish line!

 

Sponsorship Director: Tristin Roy
Team Blaze Spokane was founded by my husband Scott Roy and I in 2003.  We wanted a community of like minded individuals to train and do life with…
I was blessed to have the support of the amazing club when my husband passed away in 2012.  I love that the club helps people grow into triathletes, and it’s a community of people who enjoy fitness and challenging themselves.  As president of the club, I hope to continue to work to provide fun and educational opportunities for the members of the club.  There are so many great races and I think what makes them great is having a community of people who attend them and support one another.  I don’t think I can pick just one.  I am excited about the opportunities Team Blaze provides and I hope you will enjoy it too!
Mentor Program Director: Lindsay Donahue
I joined Team Blaze in spring of 2018. My first triathlon was Wildflower triathlon in May of 2000 which was an olympic distance.
 
 What I love about triathlon is that it is a motivating way to get and hopefully stay healthy and fit. My favorite things about Team Blaze are the people, Witter swims, and track practice. It’s fun seeing Team Blaze members at events!
 
My position as Mentor Program Director serves team members by setting up and planning workshops including: triathlon nutrition, bicycle maintenance, and an open water swim workshop. I help pair those who wish to be guided by a volunteer member who can act as a mentor. My goal this year is to post weekly on Band triathlon guidance, tips, etc. 
Social Media Director: Liz Jacobs
I decided to sign up for my first triathlon, the Coeur d’Alene 70.3, at the end of 2021 with some running experience, some indoor biking experience, and no idea how to swim for distance. People warned me that I would either survive it and be done with racing, or I would fall in love with triathlons. It was the latter.
I joined Team Blaze mostly to learn how to swim, and I have been so thankful to find coaches and friends who make this sport even more fun. When I was learning how to open water swim, I panicked, and I could not put my face in the water. Thankfully, a coach literally hung out in the middle of the lake with me, encouraging me to just swim a few yards at a time. That’s just one example of how special and supportive this team is.
I’m on the board to give back to the team I appreciate so much! As the social media lady, I post on social media, take pictures, and contribute all the hype I can muster.
Membership Director: Josh Reighley

I joined Team Blaze in 2022, hoping to improve my swimming.    I liked swimming and  riding my bike, but thought I would always hate running.   I surprised myself by signing up for my first Triathlon, learned to run, and I am hooked!   

Team Blaze is an excellent source of inspiration.  People of all abilities, fitness levels,  and ages doing their best.  Watching them work convinces me that if they can do it, I can try.  When I try, I often discover my “I can’t” becomes an “I did”.  Trying hard things is fun!
Clothing Director: Mary Grier

 

Volunteer Coordinator: June Hobson
One day, the year I turned 50, I had this out-of-nowhere overwhelming urge to run.  It hit me with a whammy and didn’t go away.
I discovered the C25k (Couch to 5k) program and began an incredible journey. I completed a 5k, 10k, half marathon and in June 2018
I completed a full marathon. I needed another big goal and I found triathlons and never looked back. 
In October 2018 I signed up for adult beginning swim lessons and Team Blaze at the same time!
I’ve completed several sprints and super-sprints. I love Team Blaze because no matter your age, race level or personal goals the members will help, support and cheer you on!
Social Activities Director: Jim Grier

I joined Team Blaze in March 2019.  I did my first ever triathlon event in Aug 2018, Post Falls Sprint. My favorite part of Team Blaze is the friendships that I have made and the energizing community. My favorite event was Washington Ironman 70.3 in Maple Valley this past September.  I completed my first full Ironman California in Sacramento in October 2022.

Workout Coordinator: Marty Pannell

Motivators

Who are the coaches?

Our coaches are recognized authorities in their areas of expertise. They organize and facilitate weekly group workouts, offering instruction and drills designed to increase speed, strength, and endurance.

Team Blaze coaches provide structured group workouts to all members. In addition, members can hire these coaches to provide individual instruction.

James Gable

You have some questions

FAQs

If you have a question that isn’t covered here, please email us teamblaze@gmail.com.

I’m a very weak swimmer. Can I still join the team?

Yes! Our coached swim workouts typically dedicate one lane each for beginning, intermediate, and advanced swimmers, and our coaches tailor the drills and instruction to the needs of the participants. However, if you are completely new to swimming, we recommend that you seek individual swim lessons before participating in coached workouts to establish a basic level of comfort and ability in the water.

Can I observe or participate in a coached workout without joining the team?

We welcome you to observe our team workouts and determine if Team Blaze might be a good fit for you. However, physical participation is limited to current Team Blaze members. This restriction protects the team from liability, ensures fairness to paying members, and helps coordinators plan successful events.

I have a physical disability. Can I still join the team?

Yes. We do not have special facilities or ways to manage any sort of disability, so if a disabled person requires special equipment or assistance, they must provide that on their own. We also expect that all members, including those with disabilities, follow the advice of their physician. Team Blaze cannot take responsibility as a medical entity.

I’m nearing or past retirement age. Can I still join the team?

Yes! We are a multi-generational team. We appreciate the knowledge, experience, and perspectives our older members bring to the group.

I’m overweight. Can I still join the team?

Yes! As long as you have a big heart, we don’t care how big the rest of you is.

Once I join, how do I get plugged into team activities?

Our Membership Director will contact you soon with lots of helpful information. In addition, you’ll have access to the members-only team page on Band.US, which includes details about all team activities.

Where are you located?

Eastern Washington/Western Idaho. Other than that, Team Blaze does not have a central location. We have special arrangements with local facilities for our coached swim workouts, indoor cycling classes, and other fitness activities and equipment usage. Our outdoor group workouts span the area from Cheney to Coeur d’Alene.

All I have is a mountain bike. Can I use that in a race, or do I need an expensive triathlon bike?

Triathlon race directors typically allow all kinds of bikes into their races (notable exceptions are recumbent bikes and motorized bikes). The most important consideration is safety. Beyond that, your comfort will determine your enjoyment. Most people find that mid and long distances on paved courses are far more comfortable on a road or tri bike because those bikes are designed to optimize aerodynamics and speed. But plenty of people complete sprint distance triathlons on mountain bikes and hybrid bikes and have a blast doing it!

What days are the Team Blaze activities?

We have workout activities, clinics, and social functions throughout the year!  You can attend all or 1, whatever works into your schedule. Once you register, you will get access to our team calender with our various activities.

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