World Vision Canada speaks with Jeffrey Torres, a 19-year-old from Vancouver British Columbia, who recently took part in the Subaru Ironman Canada triathlon. Torres was competing in this demanding athletic challenge to raise money for World Vision Canada’s Gift Catalogue. The triathlon, held in Penticton, B.C. includes a 3.8-kilometre swim, 180-km bike ride and 42.2-km run.
World Vision Canada: What motivated you to do the Subaru Ironman Canada triathlon?
Jeffrey Torres: A couple of years ago I began praying for guidance on good things I could do to help make the world a little better. The idea to fundraise for poor countries is what came to mind. I saw a great opportunity to do the triathlon and raise money for a good cause.
WVC: Why did you choose to support World Vision Canada’s Gift Catalogue?
JT: After my research, I chose World Vision because such a large percentage of donated funds are used in helping the world. They provide relief to people and help create self-reliance in communities. When a regional representative, told me how the Gift Catalogue works, I knew I had found exactly what I was looking for.
WVC: How’s the fundraising going?
JT: The total I’ve raised so far is up to $7,037 in online and cash donations. I had hoped to reach my goal of $10,000 by September 1 but now I’ll extend it to October 1 so more people can support it.
I love hearing that I’ve influenced somebody to do something or that someone has been touched by my Ironman fundraising efforts.
WVC: Tell us more about the Ironman Canada triathlon and how you trained for competition.
JT: As a kid, I used to see thousands of bikers doing the Ironman. When I was 11, I said to myself, “One day I’m going to do it.” After watching the August 2007 Ironman, I signed up for the world’s toughest triathlon even though I had never trained for or competed in a triathlon. I wanted to do something challenging, something great!
Mostly, I trained on my own. I gave up my hobbies, lots of spare time and changed my sleeping patterns to train in the early morning.
The big day arrived on August 24, 2008 and I finished 988 out of 2,211 participants, clocking a time of 12 hours and 35 minutes. At 19, I was the youngest Ironman male finisher.
WVC: What insight did you gain from your athletic and fundraising experience?
JT: The most important thing I learned is that anybody who puts in hard work and believes he can do something is going to achieve it. Focus on it and you’re going to get there.
To help Torres reach his fundraising goal click here.
To learn more about World Vision Canada’s Gift Catalogue, click here.
Interview conducted, condensed and edited by Mila Santiago.
