Paul Kindzia

Age: 38

Personal: Triathlon, and specifically Ironman triathlon, has provided me an opportunity to challenge myself physically, mentally an emotionally. I started my triathlon career with some very humble beginnings. Mainly, I didn't know how to swim, I didn't own a bike and couldn't even run a 10k in under an hour. But I had this deep desire to tackle and master the Ironman. I may have bitten off more than I can chew but my goal from the start was not just to complete an Ironman, but master the sport and eventually earn a berth to Kona to compete in the Ironman World Championships.

As most age group athletes know, balancing everything out in life can present some challenges as we attempt to focus on our careers, families, other hobbies, health and our triathlon addictions. I attempt to work really hard at balancing my life revolving around a wealthy, healthy, and happy focus. Within those parameters my objectives are to pursue my Ironman endeavors while living an active and healthy lifestyle while enhancing all of my personal relationships. It doesn't hurt that triathlon has introduced me to some of the most important people in my life.

By day I am an investment advisor and a partner at Niagara Financial Advisors. Niagara Financial Advisors is a privately held investment advisory firm that manages approximately $100 million for our individual clients. Being a Certified Public Accountant and a Certified Financial Planner provides quite a few hours to sit behind a desk while resting and recovering from my morning workouts. By the end of the day, I'm itching to get physical again.

The training is a lot more enjoyable to me than the racing. I enjoy the process of achievement and trying to figure out the puzzle on how to get the human body to achieve from a physiological perspective. There is no shortage of opportunities to learn about yourself while pursuing Ironman triathlon.

Athletic Accomplishments: It's hard to believe that I've become a double digit Ironman over the last few years. I did my very first triathlon (an olympic distance race) in the summer of 2003 and over the next four years raced and completed in ten Ironman triathlons.

2008 Goals: My main focus is to enjoy the training while leading up to Ironman Canada in August in 2008 and Ironman Florida in November of 2008. Each race I seek to improve my skills in each of the three sports while perfecting race execution. I hope to continue that trend and close that final gap that gets me to my ultimate goal of qualifying for the Ironman World Championships.

Website: www.atickettokona.com

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