Team Blaze is a 503c7 non-profit organization run by volunteers.  These our our board members:

President: Rhiannon Leppert 

I joined Team Blaze in 2017, six weeks after the birth of our 5th child. My favorite thing about Team Blaze is the friendships created and the support that comes from teammates. It is an incredible experience to see Team Blaze gear and kits at almost every race event. Whether you are the racer or the supporter, there is no lack of excitement or enthusiasm out on the course in the Team Blaze community. My favorite event is the Cd’A half Ironman. I have a special love for people that are struggling on the course because it isn’t easy for everyone; myself, included. Cheering extra loud and encouraging people who question if they can do this race – both during training and during the race – is my favorite! I believe anyone can, and this is the team to help you train for it! Enjoy the journey!

Vice President: Dan Greer

I started my Triathlon Journey in the Summer of 2019 and joined Team Blaze for the 2020 Season, which was not the best year to start. I joined because I had knee surgery and wanted to try something other than just running and would have less impact on my knees. I had no idea what I was doing, realizing very quickly I did not really know how to swim and riding a bike for distance is much harder than it looks. Joining Team Blaze was the best thing I could have done because everyone was so helpful and provided so much support and tips to help me continue to improve. I have grown immensely since joining and owe it all to the support and training from Team Blaze. By joining the board I hope to be able to give back as much as I have received from this team.

Finance Director: Jonathan Brown

My name is Jonathan Brown – I go by John and I love the outdoors and camping with my family.  My passions are biking and running.  These
are two sports that challenge me every day. I never had a love for swimming or even a desire to learn how to swim until I signed up for my first Olympic Triathlon at Priest Lake, ID in 2021 and had an amazing experience even though I placed 143 of 152 in the swim.  I quickly realized I needed to learn how to swim before attempting my first 70.3 distance Ironman.  I met these really cool dudes swimming at the pool and they talked me into joining Team Blaze in 2022.  I completed my first 70.3 Ironman in 2022 in Coeur D’ Alene, ID and I have completed the Full Ironman distance in Coeur D’ Alene, ID in June 2023. 

I love Team Blaze because it creates a space for everyone to learn, practice and execute with other likeminded athletes of all strengths and talents.  I look forward to creating many more memories, learning everything I can about Triathlon and supporting as many athletes as I can through their journey. I would like to express my gratitude for my wife Chantel for supporting me behind the scenes through my journey.

Secretary:  Rachel Mitchell

Mentor Program Director: Lindsay Donahue

I joined Team Blaze in spring of 2018. My first triathlon was Wildflower triathlon in May of 2000 which was an olympic distance.

 What I love about triathlon is that it is a motivating way to get and hopefully stay healthy and fit. My favorite things about Team Blaze are the people, Witter swims, and track practice. It’s fun seeing Team Blaze members at events!

My position as Mentor Program Director serves team members by setting up and planning workshops including: triathlon nutrition, bicycle maintenance, and an open water swim workshop. I help pair those who wish to be guided by a volunteer member who can act as a mentor. My goal this year is to post weekly on Band triathlon guidance, tips, etc. 

 

Social Media Director: Liz Jacobs

I decided to sign up for my first triathlon, the Coeur d’Alene 70.3, at the end of 2021 with some running experience, some indoor biking experience, and no idea how to swim for distance. People warned me that I would either survive it and be done with racing, or I would fall in love with triathlons. It was the latter.

I joined Team Blaze mostly to learn how to swim, and I have been so thankful to find coaches and friends who make this sport even more fun. When I was learning how to open water swim, I panicked, and I could not put my face in the water. Thankfully, a coach literally hung out in the middle of the lake with me, encouraging me to just swim a few yards at a time. That’s just one example of how special and supportive this team is.

I’m on the board to give back to the team I appreciate so much! As the social media lady, I post on social media, take pictures, and contribute all the hype I can muster.

Membership Director: Josh Reighley

I joined Team Blaze in 2022, hoping to improve my swimming.    I liked swimming and  riding my bike, but thought I would always hate running.   I surprised myself by signing up for my first Triathlon, learned to run, and I am hooked!   

Team Blaze is an excellent source of inspiration.  People of all abilities, fitness levels,  and ages doing their best.  Watching them work convinces me that if they can do it, I can try.  When I try, I often discover my “I can’t” becomes an “I did”.  Trying hard things is fun!

Volunteer Coordinator: June Hobson

One day, the year I turned 50, I had this out-of-nowhere overwhelming urge to run.  It hit me with a whammy and didn’t go away.

I discovered the C25k (Couch to 5k) program and began an incredible journey. I completed a 5k, 10k, half marathon and in June 2018

I completed a full marathon. I needed another big goal and I found triathlons and never looked back. 

In October 2018 I signed up for adult beginning swim lessons and Team Blaze at the same time!

I’ve completed several sprints and super-sprints. I love Team Blaze because no matter your age, race level or personal goals the members will help, support and cheer you on!

Clothing Director: Mary Grier
Workout Director: Marty Pannell  

Social Activities Director: Jim Grier

I joined Team Blaze in March 2019.  I did my first ever triathlon event in Aug 2018, Post Falls Sprint. My favorite part of Team Blaze is the friendships that I have made and the energizing community. My favorite event was Washington Ironman 70.3 in Maple Valley this past September.  I completed my first full Ironman California in Sacramento in October 2022.