Inspired or Insane: Renee Way

Inspired or Insane:  Tri-athlete, Renee Way

Women of influence come to me in every walk of my life.  Today’s featured woman is a sorority sister.  Renee Way is alumnae initiate of my sorority Alpha Phi.  That means Renee became a member after college for the personal and professional connections it provided.  I am honored to say she was initiated with my Alpha Phi pin.  Only one other woman can say that, my mom.  Renee and from that moment shared an instant connection. 

Renee is a career and college counselor demonstrating her commitment to inspire high school students they can be anything they want to be.  She demonstrates to her students how their college and career choices have to be the right thing for them and how they should never let grades, or finances stand in the way.  For Renee Way, there is always a way!

Inspired or Insane?  Here is the question, why would any person take up participating in triathlons?  Me, I have no clue.  A triathlon is something like 3 miles of swimming in open water, 26 mile bike ride and 6 miles of running.  Not only in the same day, but see who can do it the fastest.  In my mind insane, my friend, Renee way at 52 years old does this with ease, grace and love of self.  This weekend she placed first with at time of 3 hours and 2 minutes.  She is a woman who stares fear in the eye and goes forward anyway.  Renee hates the swim part and every time she puts her heart and focus on the line to overcome and endure.  I am so proud of her.

In addition Renee makes the world’s best low calorie chicken pot pie.  Let me tell you when you are having a bad dad there is nothing like Renee’s chicken pot pie to soothe the soul. 

What every woman should learn from Renee.  You are unstoppable!  When I asked Renee if she was inspired or insane she said a little bit of both.  That’s what it takes to be bold, smart, beautiful woman today.  Find what inspires you and put one arm in front of the other, one foot on the bike pedal and one step ahead and nobody can get in the way of your inspired dream.

Renee, thank you for always believing in me and my dreams, thank you for helping push me to the next step when the fear makes my road dark I am grateful beyond measure for how you insanely inspire me and countless other women.