Market:  New York

Athlete:  Travis Melvin (Hudson Advisors)

Through the encouragement of my ex-coworker Mauricio Velasco, I first competed in The Decathlon in 2015 representing Wells Fargo Securities. I had no idea what the competition was, but his good friend Collin Zych happened to be a self-made Decathlon legend.  Since he had an authentic, first-hand connection my interest was piqued.

Admittedly the entry fee was intimidating, but as I learned more about the competition and community I was intrigued by the idea of philanthropy being physically competitive.   I soon learned of The Decathlon community’s diverse athletic prowess and that’s when I signed up, determined to be named among the elite.

At the time, my newborn nephew was 2 months old and cancer free. I thought to myself: “What would I do if he hadn’t been so lucky, so blessed?” So I rallied around the cause.  

Nearly every man revels at the idea to become the gladiator they once thought themselves to be. I was no different.  Memories of strength, conditioning and endurance workouts from years past rushed back to me as I began to develop a training strategy.  My signature event was pull-ups because I wanted to test my ability and psyche in lieu of the reconstructive surgery I had on my shoulder during high school; I set my goal at 20.  Mauricio and I even secretly bought a power tower to stage in the office, however, there were missing pieces so I couldn’t sneak in pull-ups between work projects.  If only...

Surprisingly, I powered through 26 reps on game day (more than I had ever done while training).  The fundraising minimum of $3,000 wasn’t a deterrent since I worked for a major bank and leveraged relationships with those on the trading floor.  Ultimately I raised ~$9,700.

This year is different. 

I’m representing a smaller firm, Hudson Advisors, my pull-up goal is 30, and I’m emboldened to raise $3,000 despite not having the backing of a major bank.  My training has improved significantly and I’m anxious to see how I measure up after a year of experience under my belt.  

The great thing about The Decathlon is the camaraderie. It is invigorating.  Every participant and spectator cheers louder as the day progresses.  You are not alone. Maybe your friends are there, maybe your family, maybe you just make friends at the event. Regardless, roar of the crowd and the music from the DJ fuel your determination to summon another max effort.  

This isn’t a sport where competition hinders sportsmanship because we are all on the same team. Team P.O.E.T.I.C. Team Fight Cancer. Team You. So suit up and bring it, because everyone else is.

Meet you at the finish line,

Travis Melvin