September Athlete Spotlight - Meet Michael Neugebauer

Michael and his wife, Krista, have been active members of Paragon for many years. Whether it's team races, weekly track practice, or a long bike ride, you can always count on Michael to show up and put his best foot forward. We hope you enjoy this chance to get to know one of our hardest-working and most humble team members!

Age: 40

Occupation: Software Developer

Do you have a coach? No

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

I only ran as part of ball sports before I started dating Krista, my wife. I could barely run a mile without stopping. Krista was always very patient in waiting up for me. In 2012 she decided she wanted to run a marathon and after initially balking at the idea, I decided I couldn't not being a part of that journey. From there, we ventured into triathlon in 2014 and I haven't looked back!

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

There are many things I enjoy about training and racing! I enjoy the feeling of being fit and fast and seeing what my body is capable of. Especially since endurance sports has not come easily for me. I enjoy checking off a hard workout or event that seemed unattainable. I have really liked the things and places the sport brings me. There are things you can see and do on a bike or running that you just can't enjoy the same in a car. I've also met some really great people along the way and enjoyed many conversations with my wife and others that I have trained with.

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

It is a toss up between Ironman Chattanooga and the 70.3 Ironman Championship in St. George. Both races were held in beautiful locations and had a great atmosphere. I also got to do both races with Krista and I am so grateful for the shared experience. We also had friends and family at both events and I have cherished memories from that. Ironman Chattanooga was a celebration of building fitness and perseverance. Whereas St. George might have been celebrating an event I may never get to do again, the fitness gains I achieved to reach that point, and the pure enjoyment of just sending it in the moment and dealing with whatever that meant later in the race.

What is your favorite post-workout or race meal?

Whether it is pre (night before) or post race, hands down it is a good pizza that I enjoy the most and don't worry, I get dietitian approval on that meal every time!

What is one recent accomplishment you are proud of?

There are many things I am proud of but the thing that stands out the most was the 307 mile ride I completed last year. It took just over 17 hours moving time, just under 23 hours elapsed time and had over 14 thousand feet of elevation. It just so happened to be the hottest day of the year to that point as well. I wasn't expecting anyone to be crazy enough to join me, but Devin Sullivan did, and I am very grateful. I could not have gotten through the rough patches without his company (and draft). Krista and my father-in-law also followed us for the last 4 hours of the ride in a car as Devin and I rode into the night. She brought all kinds of treats and the encouragement we needed to continue.

What do you want to be when you grow up?

One of the things I desire the most for my future is to be a good example to Krista, my boys, and others. I think one of the most important things I can do is to lead my family by example, serving them however I can. One way I do that is by showing them that perseverance, dedication, and health are important. That doing scary or challenging things is crucial to building character. I hope to show others that you can be a good husband and father and attain fitness goals if you are committed enough. I don't know if I have or will achieve those things but I strive for them daily.

What is something no one knows about you?

I not sure that "no one" know about this, but I rarely have time to strength train. Most people assume that I lift weights regularly, but my main weight training program consists of wrestling with 2 growing boys. I used to strength train several times a week almost a decade ago, but it is the first thing to drop off my training plan when I get busy unfortunately. For example, in 2024, I only have 8 strength training activities which includes weights as well as swim bands and core work. I endeavored to do better this year and have made it to a grand total of 11 activities so far.

Why do you race/train?

Training and racing is a great way for me to enjoy God's creation. I also find that I can get lost in deep thought or prayer. Last year after my mom died I found that being active was one of the most cathartic things I could do. Spending time in nature and talking to God brought me peace and comfort that I couldn't find in many other places. Looking back at my responses, I realize that training and racing has brought me an opportunity to build lifelong memories and an unimaginable appreciation for Krista and all the ways she has supported me. I truly wouldn't be who I am without her and her influence on my life.

#athletespotlight #pursuitofexcellence #sufferfaster

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