Episode 101 | Michael Olzinski

Early Athletics

Michael Olzinski's journey in athletics began with a passion for hockey, nurtured by his father and a dedicated coach, Pierre Laganier. Growing up in upstate New York, he aspired to reach the NHL, with every early athletic memory tied to hockey 1. However, college introduced him to lacrosse, which became a pivotal point in his athletic career. "I would not have gone to college without sports," he admits, highlighting how lacrosse led him to Queen's University in Charlotte, North Carolina 2.

   

Facing Challenges

Injuries and personal challenges significantly shaped Michael's athletic path, pushing him towards endurance sports. He faced setbacks like overtraining and underperforming, compounded by two severe bike crashes that led to a concussion 3. Despite these hurdles, Michael found solace and motivation in the supportive running community in San Francisco. "I actually don't think I want to go back," he reflects on his shift from biking to running, emphasizing the community's positive impact 3.

   

Triathlon Transition

Michael's transition to triathlons was driven by a desire to find a sport that matched his competitive spirit without the constant injuries from running. He realized that triathlons allowed him to blend different disciplines, reducing the strain on his body 4. His involvement with Purple Patch Fitness further fueled his passion, as he embraced the challenge of mastering swimming and biking alongside running. "I have to be the person that takes on a swim project," he explains, underscoring his commitment to understanding the triathlete's journey 5.