Market:  Boston

Athlete:  Stern Chamblain

Competing in The BOSTON D10’s Inaugural event in 2016 was by far one of the best moments of my life. Just about a year ago, I was “pressured” by my wife and good friend Jim Norcott (Boston’s D10 Champion), to sign up. I kept telling them that I wasn’t in the best shape and hated the thought of competing in a few of the events (the 400 meter and 800 meter run to be exact…). I grew up playing basketball, so I was more accustomed to running short sprints. It had been years since I last competed at a high level, physically and mentally challenging myself, and I was a bit nervous of trying something new.

After a few weeks, I finally convinced myself to register for the D10 event, and decided I was going to challenge myself and train with the best.

About five months leading up to the event, I got to train with some of the most motivating men and women in Boston who were also a part of The D10 community. We would train at The D10’s partner gym, Mike Boyle Strength & Conditioning, Fridays at 5am, followed by an intense track workout every Saturday morning. I also made sure to train individually in customized workouts and attend high intensity strength training classes. We had a tight-knit group, that was very supportive, and we all had the same end goal to get in the best shape possible, raise money and awareness for pediatric cancer, compete, and have fun.

Fast-forwarding to “game time”; it was a sweltering 95 degrees with zero shade. I remember going through our 20 minutes of group dynamic warm-ups, already drenched in sweat like I just finished the last event of the day. The feeling, the new relationships I formed throughout, the motivation to go that extra rep, and the overall positive energy are what ultimately got me through all 10 events. It’s difficult to describe how the energy in the group almost conquers any weakness or fears you may have, and allows you to push through.

One important lesson I’ve learned from this amazing experience, is to never underestimate your abilities, or make excuses like “you’re out of shape or too old”. We are all fortunate to have great friends and family like my wife and Jim Norcott, who help you realize that and bring out the best in ourselves.

I will leave you with this, Boston, get out there, challenge yourself, become a part of this D10 movement, because nothing could be as difficult as a cancer diagnosis.

Bring it,

Stern