The TriSoldier Project is a non-profit organization founded in 2009 that aims to help disabled veterans regain a sense of normalcy through participation in sports like triathlons. The organization provides coaching networks, funds training and equipment, and helps send veterans to races. It focuses on any veteran rated as disabled by the VA, whether physical signs are visible or not. Participating in sports can help veterans with depression, PTSD, and a loss of athleticism. The TriSoldier Project hopes to encourage veterans' continued productivity and mentorship through competitive sport.

1. TriSoldier Project 2010 Getting Disabled Veterans Back In The Game

2. First, a word from our sponsor

3. TriSoldier Project Founded in 2009 Mission: To help disabled veterans regain a semblance of normalcy through participation of sport Incorporated in 2009 in the State of California as a non-profit organization. Awarded 501(c)3 Status by the IRS in 2010 Now headquartered in Los Gatos, CA

4. TriSoldier Project Jeff Trout, President and Executive Director USAF & USAR Veteran 15 years as a safety professional USA Triathlon, USA Cycling and USA Track & Field Certified Coach Former Triathlon Coach, California State University, Sacramento Owner, Cadence Performance Training multisport and fitness coaching Working on my MA in Sports Psychology

5. TriSoldier Project Board of Directors President, Jeffery Trout Treasurer, Robert Nale, Tax Director, SureWest Secretary, Robert Raynard, Lt. Col. US Army Partners Paralyzed Veterans of America Andy MacDonald, Sports Director

6. Trisoldier project What is a Disabled Veteran? Different than a disabled person under ADA Rated by Veterans Administration 10% – 100% Disabled Veteran vs Special Disabled Veteran Many disabled veterans show no outward signs of disability

7. Trisoldier project Many disabled veterans are considered “able bodied” when participating in sport Other organizations focus on disabled athletes Challenged Athlete Foundation Paralyzed Veterans of America We focus on any veteran who has been rated by the Veterans Administration

8. Trisoldier project Why? Disabled veterans were generally very active, many were athletes When that athleticism is taken away, many suffer from depression Many already suffer from PTSD SGT Ted Wade, 82nd ABN Ernie Butler, USAF (ret) Show them that they can still be productive and competitive Encourage them to become mentors for their community and to fellow disabled veterans Kevin McNease, USAT Coach Tarus Nelson, Tri Unify

9. Trisoldier project The Plan Create network of coaches and other individuals who pledge to donate their time to help disabled veterans with advice, coaching, etc. Partner with Paralyzed Veterans of America to send disabled veterans to Ironman events. Send athletes to additional races throughout the US Create grants for training, equipment, travel and race entry fees.

10. Trisoldier project Coaching Network Currently have 18 coaching organizations in 15 states from New Hampshire to California A USAT Certified Coach usually charges from $150 - $250 a month for their services Training Plans cost from $50 - $100 Coach Training We are hoping to send some disabled veterans to coaching school

11. Trisoldier project Races Ironman and the PVA ‘10 Lake Stevens 70.3 ‘11 California 70.3, April 2nd, Oceanside, CA New Orleans 70.3, April 17th, New Orleans, LA Eagleman 70.3, June 12th, Cambridge MD Racine 70.3, July 17th, Racine, WI Vineman 70.3, July 17th, Napa, CA Other Events Escape From Alcatraz Revolution 3 races Entry Level triathlons and duathlons

12. Trisoldier project Equipment Costs

13. Trisoldier project Wetsuit Rental $40 Purchase $200

14. TriSoldier Project Tri Bike Borrowed - $0 Used - $500 Entry Level - $1,000 Top of the Line - $12,000 Hand Cycle - $7,000 Tandem - $4,000

15. Trisoldier project Artificial Limb for Cycling $17,000

16. Trisoldier Project Shoes -$100 Racing Wheel Chair (Push Frame) - $7,000

17. Trisoldier project Running Specific Prosthesis $17,000

18. Trisoldier project Travel Attendant doubles the cost Entry Fees Ironman $250

19. Trisoldier project TriSoldier Sergeant Tarus Nelson served as a US Army Combat Engineer for four years. He was injured in a convoy accident which left him with a shattered left arm, two broken collar bones, fractured skull, broken jaw, severed tongue and internal injuries. Tarus was an avid athlete before his injuries and has used training for triathlon as a way to recapture that passion for sport.

20. Trisoldier project TriSailor Petty Officer Kevin McNease served in the US Navy for 20 years as a Rescue Swimmer. Cumulative trauma left him with a 50% disability after surgeries to his hip and shoulders. After not running for 5 years, set a goal of doing a triathlon and has since completed races at every distance including Ironman Coeur d'Alene in '08 and Lake Stevens Ironman 70.3 in '09. Kevin is a USA Triathlon Certified Coach.

21. Trisoldier project TriSoldier Sergeant John DiCroce served as a US Army Ranger for seven years. He was injured and following three reconstructive knee surgeries, forced to retire. He has been competing in the sport of Triathlon in 2006.

22. Trisoldier project

23. Thank you for your time