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Ten-year-old Julia Minnick began receiving therapy services at UCP of Greater Cleveland when she was one and half years old. Shortly after beginning therapy, Julia’s her mother, Kristen, attended a UCP event where she heard someone speak about the idea to start a triathlon on behalf of UCP. The Minnick family immediately became enthusiastic about this event and continues to play a leading role. Up until two years ago, Kristen was the one who pushed and pulled Julia during the Sprint distance of the Cleveland Triathlon. Recently, however, it has been Dad, Jeff, racing with Julia. Jeff has really gotten into the spirit of the triathlon as he trains quite a bit for the swimming and running legs of the race. Kristen’s favorite memory of the race took place during the 1st year: the entire family joined in at the end of the race, picked up Julia, and crossed the finish line. The love, fun and supportive atmosphere during the race is the most important part to the Minnick family. Kristen remarks, “It is important to look at the bigger picture around the race and not at things like time-finishes. Racers always get so much more out of the day than they anticipate.” Julia definitely embraces this fun atmosphere. This was apparent when Kristen was racing with Julia and Julia began yelling “Faster! Faster!” Team Julia has always and will continue to help make the triathlon a wonderful event for all involved.
We are with you all the way steam Julia, you have our heart.