Wilson Barron & Kendall Messer | IRONMAN 70.3 Louisville

Written By: Kevin Enners, The Kyle Pease Foundation | Project Manager, Communications

IRONMAN 70.3 Louisville 2024’s tagline, “Anything is Possible”, embodies Wilson Barron and Kendall Messer’s creed as they take on the half-IRONMAN-distance triathlon on August 18. For many, the mere thought of conquering a 70.3-mile course comprising swimming 1.2 miles, cycling 56 miles, and running 13.1 miles is daunting. But what about those who face additional challenges due to disabilities? Enter the adaptive athletes, individuals who redefine limitations and inspire us all with their determination and resilience.

“It really involves you understanding your potential,” adaptive athlete Wilson Barron emphasized.

Wilson, 25, is no stranger to adversity. Despite facing the physical limitations of cerebral palsy, Wilson's spirit burns bright with an unyielding passion for sports and a drive to defy expectations. He met his KPF teammate, Kendall Messer, at a KPF fun-run training on Columns Drive in 2020. Since then, the duo has competed together in over 10 ten road races and a sprint triathlon.

Kendall discovered that he could be an agent for inclusion when friend Chris Nasser told him about KPF, the nonprofit’s goal and mission. At the Concourse Athletic club, the two chatted about running and how KPF makes it possible for athletes with disabilities and able-bodied athletes to compete as one.

“Since I have been involved with KPF,” Kendall shared. “I have wanted to give someone the experience of completing a Half-Ironman.”

Rachael Barron, Wilson’s mom, witnessed the bond between Kendall and Wilson grow, gradually developing over a four-year span, as the team competed together. Race in and race out, Kendall learned how to communicate with Wilson, who is nonverbal.

“(Wilson) has his own way of communicating,” Kendall points out. “He vocalizes sounds and grunts, and I have learned to read his facial expressions.”

After a successful sprint triathlon at John Tanner Tri the Parks, Kendall felt confident that he and Wilson could push beyond and shoot for an IRONMAN 70.3. Wilson and his parents were thrilled.

Preparing for an event as demanding as the IRONMAN 70.3 requires months of dedicated training and unwavering commitment. For Wilson, the journey is not one of solitude but rather a collaborative effort with Kendall. As the Louisville event gets closer, Lake Allatoona, Columns Drive, and the Silver Comet are the duo’s training grounds. Enthusiastic about the water, Wilson can sit up in the blow-up boat using a seatback. His enthusiasm radiates in his smile.

“He loves to go fast on the bike,” Kendall says. “He will let me know when we are slowing down due to a climb.” During the run, Wilson keeps an eye on any competitor ahead, shouting encouragement to Kendall to pass them.

Wilson maintains a day job at Truist Park and Mercedes Benz Stadium as a guest host, welcoming fans while enjoying the game-day vibe.

“We are grateful to both (The Atlanta Braves and Mercedes-Benz Stadium) for leading in inclusive employment,” Rachel states. This much-needed trend seems to be slowly gaining speed. Like The Kyle Pease Foundation with its own contingency of Inclusive Employees, both sports venues appear to be willing to accommodate and learn what is required to support hires with disabilities.

KPF is proud of Wilson and Kendall’s achievements as well as the trust they have forged with each other. We wish them the best of luck at IRONMAN 70.3 Louisville where “anything is possible.”