On July 28, 2012, at the age of 69, Carol Sobolewski competed in her first-ever triathlon … and took home a 1st place trophy. Carol’s triumph of a grueling race that involved back-to-back-to-back courses of swimming, cycling and running was all the more remarkable for the fact that she had recently recovered from knee replacement surgery. But her victory at the Baton Rouge Rocketchix Triathlon demonstrated a lesson Carol learned through her years of life experience – that commitment and determination are your true keys to success.

Carol has come to recognize the importance of strong mentors, particularly at our darkest hours. During an excruciatingly painful recovery from surgery, she also lost her mother. At that time, Carol sensed the beginning of a major struggle with her emotional health. But through her life experience, she had learned the power of people to motivate one another, so at her lowest point, she reached out to tap into the strength of others. Carol started a rigorous exercise and swimming program. She took those first laps around the pool with the aid of a coach who pushed her to not only swim faster, but to eat healthier and take better care of herself. Through her own self-determination – and boosted by the strength of her coach – Carol lost 27 pounds, gained muscle mass, and reaffirmed her positive spirit and confidence.

And now, the tables have turned. It’s Carol who actively serves as a motivator for the younger women on her team. She shows them what a fulfilling, exuberant life you can achieve at 65 years and beyond. She understands that women of all ages are inspired by her energy and her joyful attitude. She actively embraces her status as a positive role model – both in the swimming pool and at work, where she provides preventive care and weight counseling as a nurse. As she trains to compete in the Girl Power Triathlon in March, Carol truly embodies her motto: “Think healthy, live healthy and stay healthy.”

Carol Sobolewski… Peoples Health Champion.