The Beginning of a Triathlon Journey
In 2010, Dr. Lindsey Calligaro’s father, Dr. Bruce Calligaro, harbored a desire to complete a marathon before his 60th birthday. However, the aspiration evolved, and instead, the Calligaro family, including Lindsey and her sister, embarked on a journey into the world of triathlons. Their inaugural race was a sprint distance, consisting of a ¼ mile swim, 12-mile bike, and a 5k run, held in May of that year. The experience was rewarding, with Dr. Lindsey and her sister securing placements in their respective age groups. This achievement ignited a passion in Dr. Lindsey, leading to her continued participation and advancement in the sport alongside her family.
Inspiration from Ironman New York City
In 2012, Ironman New York City unfolded in the Calligaros’ backyard. Dr. Lindsey and her father volunteered, finding inspiration in the athletes’ determination. This experience prompted them to register for their first half Ironman distance in New Hampshire the subsequent year. Despite the challenges of balancing residency and training, Dr. Lindsey and her father successfully completed the race within the stipulated 8.5 hours.
The Journey to Full Ironman
By 2018, Dr. Lindsey Calligaro committed to her first full Ironman, scheduled in Lake Placid, NY, in July of 2019. The rigorous training regimen served as a therapeutic outlet for Dr. Lindsey, allowing her to immerse in the beauty of her surroundings and clear her mind. The accomplishment of completing this race which includes a 2.4 miles swim, 112 mile bike, and 26.6 mile run, was unparalleled, reinforcing the belief that anything is possible.
Achievements and the Ironman World Championships
Since 2010, Dr. Lindsey Calligaro has completed 11 half Ironman (70.3) races and 4 full Ironman races, including participation in the 70.3 Ironman World Championships in St George, Utah. Her most recent Ironman in Chattanooga, TN, saw her finishing 5th in her age group, earning her a qualification for the Ironman World Championships in Nice, France. Dr Lindsey will have the honor to participate in the first-ever women’s Ironman World Championship being held in Nice, France, on September 22, 2024.
The Intersection of Podiatry and Ironman Competitions
Dr. Lindsey Calligaro’s journey in Ironman competitions has enriched her understanding and respect for the human body and its capabilities. This knowledge is not kept in isolation; instead, it is shared with her patients, emphasizing the importance of maintaining health and staying pain-free. Her experiences in endurance sports have allowed her to relate to her patients better, especially those dealing with athletic ankle injuries or those who are active.
The Goal: Finish with a Smile
Dr. Lindsey’s goal for every Ironman is to cross the finish line with a smile, harboring a desire to continue racing. She is humbled by the opportunities and experiences that the world of triathlon has provided her and is eager to share the lessons learned with her patients, helping them achieve their health and fitness goals. She is often labeled as expert in treating ankle pain while running within the Ironman Community.
Conclusion
What began as a one-time event to celebrate a birthday has transformed into a lifelong passion for Dr. Lindsey Calligaro. Her journey in Ironman competitions symbolizes determination, passion, and a continuous pursuit of excellence, not only in athletics but also in her profession as a podiatrist. The amalgamation of her experiences in both fields allows her to offer unique insights and holistic care to her patients, emphasizing the symbiotic relationship between overall health and foot health.
