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Fearing water and racing in a triathlon don’t usually mix, but Saturday, one man conquered that fear at the quad cities triathlon.
Joe Moreno of the Quad Cities Marathon and many more popular races learned to swim just in time for the big race.
Local 4’s Krista Burris shares his journey from floaties to triathlete.
Many swim for years before taking on a triathlon, but at 59, Joe Moreno just took on the sport about three months ago.
“Better late than never, and I don’t regret it,” said Joe.
Joe has been an avid runner for years, directing many popular Quad Cities races.
Joe says he’s had a fear of water up until now, but it was just a matter of time before he conquered that fear.
“It was inevitable that I would learn how to swim, and finally did it,” said Joe.
Joe’s family says he’s always been active. He’s a runner, a biker and now he can say, he’s a swimmer.
“I’m excited for him. I was so proud. I knew he could do it. He was just so nervous, and he put’s his mind to something and he can follow through,” said Joe’s wife Lorna Moreno.
“Just being around the sport of running, that intertwines with with the sport of triathletes,” said Joe.
Joe’s granddaughter, Maddie Miller, was there cheering alongside her grandmother.
The 12-year-old says she’s glad her grandfather finally conquered the water.
“I was excited, so I can swim with him now and run with him, and do other things with him,” said Maddie.
Lorna hopes this helps others take on their fears.
“I think that anybody can do it if they put their mind to it. He never thought he would swim, and this is really exciting for him. I’m proud of him,” said Lorna.
“I hope it inspires others that are in similar situations,” said Joe.
From not being able to swim at all to swimming 600 yards in 12 minutes.
Leaving his fears behind to cross the finish line.
