Featured Member: John Manier

Tell us about yourself:

I'm originally from Neillsville, WI which is a small town (pop. 2,467) in Clark County. I grew up in the country and always enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping. I moved to La Crosse to attend college; I graduated from Winona State University with a bachelor's in Environmental Science in 2008. Now I'm going to grad school at UW- La Crosse, where I'm working on a master's in Aquatic Sciences. I'm hoping to graduate this summer. I also work full-time for the US Geological Survey, in a water quality lab, where I test samples from the Mississippi River. I'm passionate about what I do and love my job!

How long have you been doing triathlons?

3 years. 

How long have you been a Bluff Buster?

2 years. 

What is your triathlon background?

I always enjoyed running. During high school, I was on the cross-country team, as well as track-and-field. Once I graduated from college, I started doing longer distances, including half and full-marathons. As much as I enjoyed running, however, I was always curious about triathlons, so I signed up for the Got Energy Triathlon in 2011. I had no clue what I was doing (and had a horrendous performance...haha!), but it only inspired me to train harder and do better.

What is your favorite race distance?

Half-ironman distance. The training is manageable, yet the distance is still a challenge.

What are your triathlon goals for 2014?

I would like to PR my half-ironman distance. Hopefully at Superior Man Triathlon in Duluth, MN on August 24th!

What is an interesting fact about you?

I'm a cancer-survivor. I was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2000. By the time doctors found it, it had spread to my abdomen and lymph nodes. After two surgeries, one week in the hospital, and tons of support from my family and friends...I was cured! I have now been cancer-free for 14 years. In fact, I did my first marathon as a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society.

What is your favorite song or album to workout to?

I don't usually listen to music while I workout, but when I do, I like rock. Red Light King, Pop Evil, Linkin Park...

What motivates you?

Future races, taking on new challenges, overcoming obstacles, adversity...

What accomplishment (triathlon or non-triathlon related) are you most proud of?

Finishing Ironman Wisconsin! It not only felt good to cross the finish line, but two weeks later, it just hit me how amazing that entire experience was. I met so many great people (including fellow Bluff Busters); got to enjoy so much scenery (swimming across Lake Neshonoc at sunrise); and made so many lifestyle changes. For the first time, I started eating right and taking care of myself. Overall, that was one of the best summers of my life.

What is your favorite workout?

Swimming has always been my weakness, so I actually enjoy doing swim drills.

What can’t you live without?

Chocolate chip cookies

If you could have any superpower, what would you choose?

To walk on water. That would be a huge help during the swim portion of the race :)

What is one book that everyone should read?

Sand County Almanac

What is your biggest Pet-Peeve?

People who talk/text while driving. 

What chore do you absolutely hate doing?

Cleaning the shower.

If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?

Swim :) Just kidding...I'd like to learn how to play guitar.

What is something you learned in the last week?

Cyanobacteria of Canadian lakes grow best at mid-level nitrogen to phosphorus ratios. Also, Grand Canyon National Park is celebrating it's 95th anniversary this year!

If you could throw any kind of party, what would it be like and what would it be for?

I don't know...but it would include a flat-bed trailer, live country music, good friends, and many libations:)

Do you have any hidden talents?

I know how to identify algae (that's the focus of my graduate work). I also like to cook!