Epilepsy no barrier
The Epilepsy Foundation of America facebooked:
Michael Poole Professional Triathlete is pictured racing the legendary Craig Alexander in Auckland, NZ last month. Poole is a world-class triathlete and so much more…all while living with #epilepsy after being diagnosed in 2009.
The 22-year-old is one of our awesome Athletes vs. Epilepsy spokespeople. Be sure to like his Facebook page and find out more about him on his fundraising page:
There’s info on Michael on his page:
Michael was born in 1991 in Tauranga, New Zealand. Growing up he played soccer and was a member of the under-12 national team. Through high school, he competed in running (winning national team titles in cross country and road running), cycling (winning national titles in road racing and time trialing; member of the national under-17 and under-19 road cycling teams), and triathlon (multiple-time high school champion in triathlon, duathon, and multi-sport events).
Since 2009, Michael has competed as a professional triathlete, moving to the U.S. in 2012. He now represents the country in one form of the sport. He has raced in over 20 U.S. cities and in 9 other countries. This year he was also second in the U.S. Collegiate Championships. At 22, he is often the youngest professional in the U.S. pro fields. Michael also loves cycle racing and holds an elite international license for that sport and will compete at state level in Florida. He currently studies full-time at the University of South Florida as a Chemical Engineering student.
In 2009, Michael was diagnosed with epilepsy. Living with epilepsy while also being involved Triathlon events is a big challenge. In addition to time spent on his studies Michael will train between 25 and 35 hours per week, involving up to six swims and normally five runs and five cycles. It involves a lot of discipline and dedication. He is medicated to prevent seizures and also takes a massive amount of care with his lifestyle and health.
Very inspiring, not letting your disability define you.