Captain Andy Christian, an active duty US Marine on leave, raced
April 15 in the Arizona Ironman to raise funds for his fallen
comrades and the Marine Corps Semper Fi Fund
– a non-profit organization that provides financial support for
Marines and their families rehabilitating from catastrophic
injuries.
Captain Andy Christian, an active duty US Marine on leave, raced April 15 in the Arizona Ironman to raise funds for his fallen comrades and the Marine Corps Semper Fi Fund – a non-profit organization that provides financial support for Marines and their families rehabilitating from catastrophic injuries.
Christian, who raised more than $50,000 for the Semper Fi Fund by participating in endurance events, was sponsored by Morgan Hill company Specialized Bicycle Components. A hero by any definition, Christian saved two fellow soldiers in an IED ambush while serving in Iraq. He was recently awarded the Marine Gold Star for his life-saving heroic efforts.
Specialized-sponsored rider, Peter Reid, a three-time world champion Ironman, coached Christian into form for his assault on the Arizona Ironman. Christian rode a Specialized Transition Bicycle and had Specialized Body Geometry equipment for the race.
Specialized staff members raised money to sponsor Christian as a part of their Adopt a Marine Project. “Andy’s heroic efforts are inspiration and admirable – and represent the spirit of our troops serving our country and freedom in America,” said Mike Sinyard, Founder & President of Specialized.
Christian ran with a full-sized American Flag during the marathon portion of Ironman Arizona. The flag was in the back of a Marine vehicle that was ambushed, leading to the death of Staff Sergeant Jay Collado.
“The flag represents the greatest country in the world and the ultimate sacrifice of America’s true heroes,” Christian said. “During the long training days that I prepared for the race, I kept thinking of the following quote: ‘Triathlon is a metaphor for life; there’s always someone faster than you, always someone slower. All you can do is hang in there and put your heart into it.'”
The injured Marine Semper Fi Fund is a non-profit organization that provides financial support for Marines rehabilitating from catastrophic injuries and their families. Further details are available at: www.semperfifund.org.
