Tribute to Braydon Nielsen

Triathlon lost a dear family member Tuesday night, as 36-year old Braydon Nielsen was struck by a vehicle and killed while on a group ride with his local tri club in St. George, UT. I first learned of Braydon shortly before Ironman 70.3 St. George, a race we both participated in in May. Through mutual friends I heard about this big-hearted big fella who had embraced endurance sports as a way to better health. He gave it his all, overcoming multiple flats and bike mechanical issues, but came up short of finishing that day in St. George. Instead of throwing in the towel, he doubled down and raced Ironman 70.3 Boise four weeks later. I was inspired by this guy's guts and determination, and we became "virtual" friends through social media. As the bottom picture shows, Boise had a much more triumphant result. 

Although I never had a chance to meet the man in person, he was still an inspiration to me as well as to so many others. Braydon, you will be greatly missed.