I have had the privilege to serve on the board of directors for the Chico Tri Club for the past two years and I would like the honor to continue for another term.   I know that I’ve met many of you, but I would like the opportunity to introduce myself officially again. I have been involved in our wonderful sport of triathlon since 1997 when I participated in my first sprint distance triathlon back in Vancouver Canada and I got hooked! After I moved to Chico in 1999 I stayed active in running, swimming and cycling but it took several years to adjust to the summer heat for me to jump back in to competing in triathlons. However, since then I’ve been fortunate to have competed in triathlons all over the US and also internationally and at all different distances from sprint triathlons to full distance Ironman races.

I have been involved with the Chico Tri Club since its inception but have also been a member of two other triathlon clubs over the years, one here in Chico and another in Vancouver. I feel that I’ve seen what works really well and areas where clubs can improve.  I have gained so much from being involved in triathlon clubs and particularly in the Chico Tri Club where I’ve had the experience to train and race with elite level athletes and also have been able to encourage and offer advice to people wanting to give a triathlon a “try” for their first time. 

When I’m not training and racing in triathlons (which takes up most of my time J) I somehow find the time to work full time as a Registered Nurse for the California Department of Public Health where I manage a very busy office here in Chico and also spend time with my family, my supportive husband and energetic dogs.

The sport of triathlon has given me so much……inspiring training partners, lifelong friends, wonderful race locations and the satisfaction of tackling challenges that sometimes seem insurmountable. Since I have gained so much from triathlon I would really like the opportunity to give back by volunteering my time, efforts and energy to help the Chico Tri Club remain one of the premier triathlon clubs around.

I would be humbled to have the opportunity to continue to serve on the Board of Directors if you’d like to vote for me. In turn I will help support the Chico Tri Club and support each of you in whatever your triathlon goals may be.

Thank you for your interest and support of our great club.

Joanne Gilchrist