I thought it would be fun to start introducing some of our board members and then highlighting our G3 members. This week is Sharon Byun.

She is a board certified OBGYN and Lifestyle Medicine physician who found her way to triathlon in 2012 at the age of 43 after 25 years of a mostly sedentary lifestyle, not having swum in a pool since the age of 18 or ridden a bike (mountain bike) for 10 years. Since that time, Sharon has competed mostly in short course races including racing for Team USA as an age-group athlete in 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022 and 2023. She did not attempt her first 70.3 until age 52 and her first and only Ironman (Alaska) until age 53. Sharon's favorite races are Crystal River Sprint (her first), Trigators, Escape From Alcatraz, all of the Team USA Age Group World Championships events, IM 70.3 St. George and IM Alaska. "The best thing about triathlon is definitely the people! Also, it is the only sport where we have the opportunity to compete alongside professional/elite triathletes as well as physically challenged athletes. Triathletes are an incredibly welcoming, encouraging and inspiring group of people. Our triathlon club in Gainesville is one of the best clubs in the country! I am proud and honored to serve as a board member, having joined the club at the time of its inception back in 2012." Sharon said she hopes to be able to encourage and mentor newbies and continue to train and compete with friends for as long as her body will allow. If you are looking for a great coach, her coach is Karyn Austin who has coached her since 2014. She also coaches our local masters swim team, Swamp Water Aquatics Gainesville (SWAG). In Sharon's personal life, she enjoys traveling and spending quality time with her husband Louis, son Thomas, and her beloved dogs Suki and Zues. Her mottos are choose your own timeline, create your own journey, live life on your own terms and be true to yourself. Also age is just a number! Don’t let your age be your limiter.

Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon Interview: Women of Escape Sharon Byun

World Triathlon Interview article: Extraordinary Triathletes: Sharon Byun (USA)

Thank you for sharing your story with us Sharon Byun. We all are so grateful for your knowledge, your support, your love and your friendship.