I’m not the guy who will make the podium, but I will work to get the job done.

July 13, 2018

I was born missing my lower left leg and only have three functional fingers on each hand, all due to birth defects. I never had two legs and ten fingers so I don’t miss them — it’s all I know. In 1997, I became an EMT while I was a volunteer firefighter. Then in 2007, I joined the New York City Fire Department and have since become a lieutenant. I’m the only active duty amputee on the job. It gives me joy to know I inspire others with what I do.

My first triathlon was Escape from Alcatraz and I was immediately hooked. I've now done three IRONMAN® races and I hope to compete at Kona someday. My best advice is to start small regardless of the size of your goals. We all have good days and bad days, but you have to be willing to put in the time. I’m not the guy who will make the podium, but I will work to get the job done. My wife and children support me through the highs and lows of training and racing and thinking of them motivates me through my toughest race moments. I also love the energy of the other racers. We feed off of each other for moral support.

- HOKA fan Dave Kruysman from New York City, NY #humansofHOKA (📷 Mindy Randall)

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