Westside LA Team In Training - Winter 2009 Marathon & Half Marathon Team

Name: Peter Vu
Team: Westside LA
Number of TNT Seasons: 1
Last TNT Event: 2009 San Diego Rock N Roll Marathon

Why did you join TNT?
I joined TNT because I wanted to help a good cause and accomplish one of my life’s goals. In the fight against cancer, I was hoping my running would honor my uncle who successfully battled nose and throat cancer and my cousin who is currently battling thyroid cancer. In running a marathon, I wanted to achieve something that I never thought was possible, since I could barely run 5 miles at the beginning. I could not think of a better way to do both simultaneously and with the amazing support of the wonderful TNT folks and fellow participants.

What was your best fundraiser?
I relied mostly on e-mail and personal connections, which I found to be very effective. The main thing was to follow up with people, make your emails personal, and provide a people with a convenient way of tracking your progress (either through a blog or posting updates on your fundraising page). I reached my goal the last week before the marathon, and it is a really incredible thing to see friends, family and work colleagues believe in your efforts despite a challenging economy.

Most memorable TNT moment?
My most memorable moment was when I saw Coach Chris Wilno about 200 meters before the finish line of the San Diego Rock ‘N Roll Marathon and he ran me in. It was in that moment that the summation of all the fundraising, training, and significance of what you were about to accomplish finally hits you. You realize: “OMG, I am to about to finish a marathon” (me of all people who is just an average person). Coach mentioned that your life will change after this, and he was right. TNT is addictive and now I am here in my second season, trying to share my tips and offer encouragement to the lucky, prospective half-marathoners/marathoners.

What would you have done differently during the season if you could start over?
While the fundraising and the running were my main reasons for joining TNT, I was amazed at the wonderful people that I met throughout the course of the season. The season goes by fast, and I wish I would have made an effort to go to more of the social events or meet as many fellow TNTer’s at the Sunday and weekday practices. They are truly wonderful people!

Do you have any other words of wisdom for our participants?
Believe in the cause, the coaches, the training and most importantly yourself! You will make it to the finish line.

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This will be an ongoing series, where we will feature an alumni so you, our readers, can learn some new things from people who have done it before. If you’re a Team in Training Alumni, please fill out this form (or please spread the word).