Ironman triathlete Mike Pluimer teamed up with the Christian Reformed World Relief Committee’s Embrace AIDS initiative to raise funds for and awareness of the fight against AIDS.
Pluimer, a member of Unity Christian Reformed Church in Prinsburg, Minn., and Randy Hedman of CRWRC started www.jointherace.org, where people can sign up online as iJoiners to partner with Pluimer in raising money and awareness.
While Pluimer actually competes in Ironman events, which include swimming, biking, and running a total of 140 miles (226 km), iJoiners train and complete their miles toward the Ironman distance at their own pace. Most of the iJoiners are teens and young adults.
“The program is designed to get other people actively involved as they have to train, raise funds and awareness, and tell others about it,” Pluimer said. “They have to sacrifice to reach the goal, and that’s the point.”
Pluimer, an engineer, has raced in nine events, including two this year. He has raised $1.3 million, including $40,000 for CRWRC.
About the Author
Paul Delger is a long time professional writer and inspirational speaker to young people and lives in Kanawha, Iowa.
