Surging out of Lake Loyd on a crisp December day competing in the Challenge Daytona triathlon, pro and amateur triathletes sprint toward their bikes. The moment his fingertips touch the ground, Chris Johnson springs up and dashes out of the water. Fastening his helmet strap under his chin, he swings a leg over his bike and merges with the throng of amateur racers.  Despite having his appendix removed only three weeks prior, Johnson placed fifth in the middle-distance event, first in the sprint. 

“I was a little disappointed in my performance in the middle-distance race,” he shared. “But I was happy I bounced back in the sprint race.”

His affable demeanor, can-do attitude, and leadership sparks bonds with practically everyone he meets – especially in the KPF family. A scholar of leadership, Chris follows the words of John Maxwell: “Everything rises and falls on leadership. He believes the fundamentals of leadership – in or outside sports, are building blocks to a team. 

Johnson’s tenure as a KPF volunteer began in 2018, with one heck of a first race – The Atlanta Publix Half-marathon. Chris completed the hilly race with push-assist volunteers Bill Wileman and Thomas Odom, and in-chair athlete Jon Crais. Joking around, talking, the three became fast friends and a strong push-assist crew. They finished the half-marathon in a little over an hour and a half – plenty of time for an everlasting fellowship to be forged. The trio still keeps in touch via social media to this very day.  

“There is no such thing as good teams or bad teams - only good leaders and bad leaders,” Johnson states. “So, any result, good or bad, is ultimately a reflection of the leaders.”

But what exactly drives Johnson to be a good leader? Simple. Taking pride in knowing he is inspiring others to challenge themselves to set goals and achieve them. “There have been several times when someone has ‘done a triathlon’ or ‘started working out.’ While there isn't really any accomplishment for me, I certainly feel the proudest in those moments.” 

Now on KPF’s Board of Directors, Chris helps guide KPF’s growth as his selflessness extends beyond the finish. But, at home, he’s just your typical dad keeping up with his kids, taking them to swim meets, cross country races, soccer games, and track and field meets. They spend family time playing board games and having fun with their cat, Stew. 

“I had no idea the impact racing with The Kyle Pease Foundation would have on me,” Chris says. “I love racing in general but racing with KPF takes the joy of racing to a new level.” 

Interview written by Kevin Enners