November Athlete Spotlight - Marcy Garza

Marcy Garza is proof that you can do anything you put your mind to. She is always up for a challenge and gives it everything she has. Her journey into endurance sports didn’t begin with an athletic childhood or years of training—it began in 2016 with a decision to reclaim her health, never imagining it would lead her to become an Ironman and a dedicated endurance athlete. What began as a simple commitment to prioritize her well-being transformed into a life-changing adventure that reshaped her mindset and expanded her sense of possibility. She is living proof that it’s never too late to start, to grow, and to discover strengths you never knew you had. Enjoy this interview with Marcy, our November athlete of the month!

Age: 62

Occupation: Registered Nurse - Ambulatory Surgery

Do you have a coach? Yes, Roberta!

How long have you been swimming, cycling, running, and/or doing triathlons?

I did not have ANY experience in sports prior to 2016. It all started with a journey to change my health. I wanted to make my health a priority. I decided it was time to make a change. A switch just flipped in my head, and it all began. My first work out was just a one-mile walk. I hadn’t exercised in over 35 years! I had no idea where this adventure would lead me. I never thought I would be an Ironman or an endurance athlete. I didn’t even know what an Ironman was or that any endurance sports even existed! I always tell people, “It’s never too late”!

What aspects of training and/or racing do you enjoy most?

This is a question I get asked a lot. I love all 3 disciplines of triathlon. There is so much flexibility in training, and it always keeps things interesting. If an injury occurs there is always another discipline available. If I had to choose, I would say that I love cycling the most. There’s a freedom you get on the bike and all your troubles go away. You can’t be sad on a bike!

What has been your favorite training or racing event, and why?

My favorite racing event would be the one that challenged me to the core. I wanted to do a race near my hometown in Western Pennsylvania. I completed the Laurel Highland Ultra Marathon 50k (31 miles) in Ohiopyle, Pa., with over 6175 ft of elevation. They call the first 8 miles “gate to eight” because it is 8 miles of continuous elevation. I went back to my roots to climb the mountains I grew up on. I went home to celebrate all that I have accomplished and how I have changed my life. This is a little bit extreme, but I do like a good challenge. It was definitely even more challenging than an Ironman!

What is your favorite post-workout or race meal?

Let’s be honest, triathlon training can make you really hungry. There is nothing better than a chicken Gordita. I also love a spicy chicken sandwich from Chick-fil-A. I’d like to say I keep it healthy all of the time, but I do like to have a few guilty pleasures when I’ve earned them.

What is one recent accomplishment you are proud of?

I would have to generalize and say the accomplishment I am most proud of is maintaining my weight and fitness. It definitely isn’t easy, and it has to be intentional. I’ve trained my mind to be strong. I am a grandma to my two favorite little boys Samuel and August. It’s important to me to take care of myself so that I can see them grow up

What do you want to be when you grow up? We're all growing up still!

I’m not done yet. I have so much to do. I have spent my entire adult life working in health care. Someday I would like to do something completely different. Now that I’m healthier than I’ve ever been I would like to volunteer or work in a State Park. I’d like to wear a big hat and have a big belt buckle and just be outside in nature.

What is something no one knows about you?

I did not learn to swim until I was 55 years old. I could keep myself from dying but could not swim. I hadn’t ever had a swim lesson in my life. I challenged myself to learn something new. I had a lot of lessons and a lot of help to get me to where I am today. Now, my best Sherpa EVER (my husband) would say that the thing no one knows about me is how impulsive and spontaneous I can be. He knows first-hand the repercussions from my extreme spontaneity.

Why do you race/train?

A little philosophical, but some people race for family, others to redefine themselves or chase down old demons, others because of lovers or friends or spirituality -- what's your reason?

Bottom line - It’s therapy for me. It’s very satisfying to be proud of myself and my choices. It’s a hobby but also a way of life that I could not have ever imagined. Sometimes I can’t even believe that this is my life! I want to set an example for others and inspire people to make positive changes in their health. If I can do it, you can too!

#athletespotlight #pursuitofexcellence #sufferfaster

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