By Bridgette Bornstein, WCCO-TV

(Editor’s Note: This item was broadcast on WCCO-TV on July 12, 2006. The unidentified blind runner in the triathlon was Jeff Thompson. Both Luis Thorin and Jeff Thompson are members of our Metro Chapter, as well as graduates of Blindness: Learning in New Dimensions (BLIND). They successfully completed their segments of the triathlon on July 15, which turned out to be the hottest day of the summer.)

Have you ever considered attempting a marathon, or even a triathlon, and decided it's too hard? There are some athletes who might just be the inspiration you need to say "I can do anything."

Among the field of competitors at this weekend's Lifetime Fitness Triathlon is a man who knows he probably won't finish first. But he is a standout nonetheless.

For Luis Thorin, this is about body and mind. He will keep pedaling and keep believing that he can do this.

"I would be really happy if more people were willing to take a chance. We're not here to win, we're here to participate,” said athlete Luis Thorin.

In last year's triathlon, Luis was the only blind athlete. His goal this year: to put together a whole relay team.

And that dream has come true. Thorin will bike, another blind athlete will do the running leg, and in the water will be Anessa Kemna.

“We're using a bungee tether between us so that she can keep me in a straight line,” said Kemna.

Kemna may depend on a guide for direction, but all the motivation comes from inside.

“It's very nerve-racking just because it's the first experience, but I'm incredibly excited to try it," said Kemna. "You need to try everything at least once because there's no reason not to do something just because of limitations. The worst that can happen is it doesn't work."

And that's the message these athletes hope to pass along. These competitions are not easy, no matter your abilities or limitations. The important thing is to try.

“When you have people that have a disability that are overcoming those challenges to remain active and make that commitment it's an inspiration to us all,” said Team Ortho executive director John Larson.

The relay team is sponsored by team Ortho. By participating, they are raising money for orthopedic research, education and patient care.

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