Greg Smith's Journey to the 2024 VinFast IRONMAN World Championship
On a Saturday at the end of one of Georgia’s notoriously long, scorching summers, Greg Smith fought off the heat, sweating through his KPF Tri uniform. Leary about the swim, the KPF board member optioned for the sprint duathlon – a 13.8-mile bike ride and two 5k runs. He dug deep, remembering how he ended up on this hilly John Tanner State Park course.
Greg learned about KPF in a conversation with Dick Pease, whom he met in 2011 at a cocktail party. As a parent of a child with a disability, Greg wondered what was in store for his daughter, Marin, who was born with cerebral palsy. What was her life going to be like? What could she achieve? Marin would always have challenges, as people with disabilities often face significant barriers to opportunities in various aspects of life, including employment, education, and social participation. Dick, the father of Brent and Kyle, had been around the block and suggested that Greg meet his son, Kyle.
Over a plate of wings and beer at Smith’s Old Bar, the Pease brothers shared a bit about KPF, their mission, and their vision to get disabled individuals out of their wheelchairs and into racing. Greg recognized the importance of their efforts and the impact they could have on an often-overlooked population. He wanted to be part of it.
The Virginia-Highland’s Summerfest 5K was Greg and Marin’s first race. Marin, sippy cup in one hand, waffle in the other, sitting comfortably in her BOB stroller, enjoyed the experience with her dad. Thus began an everlasting bond between father and daughter.
“KPF provides us with a platform to bond over something we both love, while also allowing me to channel my talents and resources towards a cause that is close to my heart”, Greg shared. “I have three priorities in life: things around family, things around work, things around KPF – oh, and church, I guess that’s four.”
Greg’s involvement with KPF has become a cornerstone of his life. The sense of community and camaraderie within KPF is unparalleled, and he is continuously inspired by the dedication of everyone involved, from the board members and volunteers who selflessly give their time and energy to the inclusive athletes and their determination.
One of the most significant milestones in Greg’s journey with KPF has been the decision to take on the 2024 VinFast IRONMAN World Championship in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. This endeavor carries a heartfelt mission: to nurture and sustain inclusive work opportunities well beyond the moment when KPF’s Kona Team proudly crosses the finish line. For Greg, this is his “big, hairy, audacious goal”, one driven by a passion for lasting change.
Greg’s expectations for the race are simple: to finish with a smile and to represent KPF with unwavering pride. As KPF strives to raise over one million dollars, this IRONMAN symbolizes hope and opportunity, aiming to create a brighter future for people with disabilities both within KPF and beyond. Every step is a step toward a more inclusive world.
Greg is incredibly grateful for the support of his colleagues at Roark Capital, as well as other corporate sponsors he has been affiliated with, who have generously contributed to this cause. Greg is honored to have their support.
“The IRONMAN World Championship is 90 percent mental, 10 percent physical – and a metaphor for everything in life,” Greg asserts. “You need to be tough mentally, have a good attitude, and a heart of gratitude.”
