Uriah Steffen’s #30Days30Tris Challenge

During September 2019, Dare2tri Elite Team member successfully completed 30 triathlons in 30 days — one sprint distance tri for every day of the month. It was without question an amazing feat of endurance, but it was also much more than that. Uriah, a below-the-knee amputee, used the opportunity to raise funds for Dare2tri, to bring awareness to the disability community in his hometown, and “to show that anything is possible when we overcome the limitations that we place upon ourselves.”

“Dare2tri has gone above and beyond to push me toward my goals,” Uriah said. “Because of their coaching, athletic camps, and equipment, my goals are one day closer to becoming a reality. I knew that I could have just written a check and donated to do my part, but I wanted to do something a little bigger, a little more challenging — something that would push my abilities.”

A spin on James Lawrence’s 50 Ironmans in 50 Days, Uriah’s #30Days30Tris was done throughout Indianapolis and its surrounding areas, where Uriah resides with his wife and kids. As he trekked around his hometown, Uriah used social media to not only document his journey, but to increase his outreach. He took his followers through every swim, bike, and run — through the new areas he explored, through the Sunset 5K he organized, and through the connections he made with local businesses and groups. There were plenty of memorable moments along the way, but as with any endurance challenge, there were also obstacles:

“Halfway through, on day 14, I hit a wall and thought about giving up,” Uriah said. “My body was aching and sore. I was tired. But something happened that night during the run. I pushed it and had one of the best runs of my life. My body was responding well, but it was my mind that was facing the challenge. Once I realized that, I knew I could keep going.”

In the end, Uriah persisted. Reflecting on his incredible journey, he had this to say: “I am thrilled with everything that has been accomplished. More than $2,500 has been raised, more opportunities are being presented for continued awareness, and other individuals are beginning to see the potentials that they have. I am honored to be part of such an amazing organization. Dare2tri means so much to myself and my family. And I’m so thankful to have the chance to give back.”