2008 Full Throttle-Jamis Meet the Athletes

  These are the Full Throttle-Jamis

Triathlon and Cycling Coaches and Athletes

So you could get to know the athletes just a little better,

we asked them to declare the

other favorite teams they cheer for during the year.

   King of the Spartans, Defended Sparta against Zerkzies the Persian ruler.

               "Few fought against many, and stood against a tyrant"

  Coach Scott Berlinger is the Founder/President of Full Throttle Endurance. He is a USA Triathlon level 2 certified coach and graduated from the University of South Carolia in 1988 with a B.S. Marketing/ Finance degree.

  Scott has been on the podium many times including winning his Division at the Team National Championships in St, Louis, MO in 2007. Scott has signed a multi-year deal with the Jamis Bicycle Company. Scott will rename the Team, Full Throttle-Jamis in 2008.

  A former "American Gladiator-Viper", His love for competition and training inspired him to start his own racing team, a place where athletes can realize their own goals and reach their highest potential. He lives in Connecticut with his wife and two children.

For more info on Scott Berlinger

  Andrew Kalley was born and raised in NYC, Chelsea to be exact. He is a personal trainer and the assistant coach for the Full Throttle team. Andrew joined Full Throttle 1 1/2 years ago with no prior multi sport training experience. With the help of Scott Berlinger and the Full Throttle program, Andrew managed to have a very successful first season. In 2006, Andrew completed 4 triathlons with 4 age group podiums, 3 of which were 1st in division. Scott Berlinger brought Andrew on as and assistant coach for the 2007 session. Andrew has found his calling as a triathlete and loves training and helping his fellow teammates.

For info on Andrew Kalley

Eagle Man Half Iron Man  5:28:00
Ironman USA 12:13:42
Pat Griskus 1st 30-34
Northern Columbia Triathlon 1st Female overall
West Point Triathlon 1st 30-34

For info on Toni Weeks

Owner/Manager Colavita Pro Cycling Teams
Category 3 USCF Cyclist
1st Overall South Mountain Criterium Series '07
10th Overall - 2nd in Division at West Point Triathlon '07
15th Overall - 2nd in Division at Wyckoff Triathlon '07

  The Assistant coach for cycling on the Full Throttle/ Jamis Triathlon team. Frank's backround is in cycling where he raced 16 years at the Pro/Am level in the US and France. Frank is also a personal trainer at Chelsea Piers

Meet the Captains

   A fixture on the Metropolitan Triathlon scene, Bill has been racing competitively in the age-group ranks for over 20 years. He is a multi-year member of Team USA and has consistently been named First Team All-American by USA Triathlon. While more interested in the Olympic distance, Bill has shown his versatility by racing the Hawaii Ironman numerous times and in 2007 being on the podium at Ironman USA in Lake Placid with an outstanding time of 9:57. Bill has countless age group wins locally (He won his age group in the New York City triathlon 4 consecutive years) and is an integral part of Team Full Throttle. Bill is excited about the 2008 season as he moves up to the 45-49 age groups, where one of his first tests will be the Age Group World championships in Vancouver Canada in June. Bill works in the financial field, lives in New Jersey with his wife and three children, and is a passionate New York Yankee and Bruce Springsteen fan

. 

"2007 Most Valuable Athlete" Back to Back at Nationals weekend

  Jesse is originally from Seattle, WA and has lived in NYC for eight years. He completed his first race in 2004 and has been racing ever since. Jesse has completed many sprint, olympic and half-ironman races, along with three Ironman races. Successes in 2007 include: qualifying for and completing the Ironman World Championship in Hawaii; qualifying for the amateur long-course world championships in Algere, Holland in 2008 where Jesse will be racing for Team USA; and finishing in the top five overall in several races.
   Although the competitiveness of triathlon makes it challenging and rewarding, Jesse most enjoys the personal side of training with the Full Throttle Team.

  Jason is relatively new to triathlon. He grew up playing many sports including; hockey, soccer, golf, football, baseball, and he skied. While in college at Washington and Jefferson, Jason began to run. He spent the summer of his sophomore year at Parris Island, S.C. with the Marine Corps. This is where he was introduced to running...and he ran a lot. From there, he completed a few marathons and last year marked his first year of triathlon. His first tri was Eagleman Ironman 70.3. Jason became hooked and raced Whirlpool Steelhead 70.3, and the Nation's Triathlon. His strength is on the bike and with the help of his coach, Erin Kummer of Team Timex, Jason hopes to have a breakthrough season. Jason is very excited about the opportunity to race as a representative of the Full Throttle Team and there is no doubt that Scott and the Gang will help him achieve his goals.

   Dan is a 3rd Grade teacher who resides in New Jersey. Dan has been a triathlete since his senior year in High School and continues to become more interested in the sport each year. Racing everything from sprints to Ironman has made it possible for Dan to challenge himself in many different areas both physically and mentally. Being a type one diabetic, Dan has pushed beyond all barriers to consistently race at the Ironman level and continues to set new physical goals and grow as a triathlete. In 2008 Dan will be racing several sprint triathlons, Ironman USA in Lake Placid, and the Eagleman Half.        DanRSlagle@hotmail.com

  Taylor Storms began racing with Scott when he was sixteen and has been with Full Throttle since the beginning. Throughout his four years at Columbia University he continued to race with the team and has finished at the top of his age group in multiple races.

 I joined the club in 2004 and have been honored to meet and train with a talented, interesting and dynamic group of people. I'm lucky to have made some great friends through Full Throttle. And, while triathlon is intrinsically an individual sport, it's my teammates that inspire me to the starting line in the first place.

  Thierry is a Ralph Lauren Model, that has been with Full Throttle for 2 years. See one of his many pictorals in Italian Vogue, shot by Bruce Webber.

   Bobby grew up near Pittsburgh, and is an attorney with a boutique wealth management firm in Pittsburgh.  His athletic background includes a short college football career, a few years of Aikido training state-side and in Japan, and finally learning how to swim at the early age of 27.  He now resides in the North Hills of Pittsburgh with his wife, 2 children and his two favorite training partners:  Harper and Dunkel.  Bobby is a Steeler fan and rocks out to the Foo Fighters with his 4-year old daughter.
In 2008 Bobby looks forward to focusing his training and racing efforts on short course.  The arrival of his son in June 07 has prompted Bobby to shift his focus away from full and half training, to now enjoy the simplicity of finishing a race and still having the wherewithal to enjoy a post-race beer.
Completions include 3 Ironman distance races, Panama City his first, but Lake Placid being his favorite.  His favorite distance is the half, and Bobby completed Clearwater in 2006 for a PR of 4:27.  After recovering from an injury sustained at Coeur d'Alene in 07, he managed to stay on the swim course (with help from a land mass called Virginia) and finish 5th in his age group at the Nation's Triathlon in Washington, DC.

  Joe began racing with the Jamis / Full Throttle team in 2006, diving in head first with the long course athletes. In the last two years he has completed 2 Ironman distance events, 4 Half-Ironman events and numerous other short course races. Joe’s day job is president of Interactive Marketing Solutions, an Interactive Media agency that he founded in 2000. Joe will maintain his long course focus in 2008 with Ironman 70.3 St. Croix and Ironman Coeur d’Alene on the schedule.

2007 Notable Finishes:
Endurasport Half Ironman, Harriman NY, 5:52:19 1st Division
Mooseman Half Iron Man, Bristol NH, 5:14:36
Pat Griskus Olympic, Middlebury CT, 2:36:31 3rd Division
Ironman Lake Placid Finisher
Timberman Spirnt, Gildford NH, 1:19:13 2ND Division

  As the Events Director for the Sports Center, Phil develops successful programs and partnerships with hundreds of corporations, businesses, schools, and agencies. Under his leadership, the corporate Team Building program enrollment grew by seven hundred percent to serve over six thousand participants each year.  He also is in the process of creating and launching the Sports Center’s - Professional Team Development program using Behavior and Personality profile assessments.  The Professional Team Development program is a comprehensive team building and leadership program for businesses and management teams.  When he is not designing or implementing customized programs, he also coordinates sports marketing initiatives between the Public Relations department and Corporate Communications.

Every year he competes in NYC tri, West Point, and various other local triathlons.  He was the first winner of the Full Throttle Endurance Challenge back in 2003.

   2008 will be Colin's first season with Full Throttle. Though he has never
competed in a Triathlon, he once held the 14 and under record for 50 yard
breaststroke at his summer camp, and definitely had the flyest Huffy on his
block from '80-'83. Colin lives in Chelsea with his fiance and two standard
poodles.

"2007 Most Inspirational Finish" NYC Triathlon

With a background in running, Jose joined Full Throttle Endurance in April 2006 with a goal to complete one triathlon. After two months of hard training and with lots of encouragement from Coach Berlinger, Jose competed in the Mighty Montuak triathlon in June 2006. From then on he was hooked in the sport and ended up competing in 6 short distance triathlons in his first season.
One of Jose’s achievements in 2007 was being part of the team that won the “National Team Championships” title. Jose works on Wall Street and resides in Brooklyn Heights.

   I was introduced to the triathlon sport by Scott Berlinger in 2006 as a way to get in shape and stay fit and joined the Full Throttle team without knowing much more about the sport. Starting out with low expectations, I've grown to love the sport and the positive changes it's made in my life. Triathlons had not been on my radar prior to 2006 as the sport seemed so far out of my reach, however with the motivation and encouragement I've received along the way, it’s now a sport I truly enjoy. The camaraderie and feeling of accomplishment when crossing the finish line are indescribable. Thirty pounds lighter and 3 races into the sport, with a 3rd place finish in the Clydesdale division of my 2nd race, improving on my personal times along with the added push from Coach Berlinger keeps my motivation and drive alive. I live in Stamford, CT with my wife Jenny.

  I started my triathlon career two years ago with this being first season with

Full Throttle. With my schedule I often don't get to train with the team but Scott assured me this wouldn't be a problem. I too. like many have issues with the water. Scott helped give me more confidence in the water which improved my swim significantly.
Although I don't think I will see a podium finish anytime soon I will continue to do triathlons for the challenge and enjoyment I get out of it. I am looking forward to next season of racing and training (when I can) with the team and actually making it to some karaoke....no I'm not singing. Thanks Scott and the team for all the support.

I was born in Riverdale (Bronx), NY and moved to Rockland County, NY when I was four.  Although I was never a hard core athlete growing up, I was always able to maintain a decent shape…However, just like everyone else metabolism, diet and lack of exercise finally caught up with me and by my mid 20’s so did the pounds.  I was inspired to start taking better care of myself by my colleague (and member of Full Throttle Endurance-Joe Marinucci) who was a triathlete in training for his first Iron Man.   

In August of 2006, I completed my first sprint triathlon, the Timberman in New Hampshire!!  Physically, emotionally and spiritually, this was an accomplishment for me.  To date, I have run two sprints.  I now believe I am ready to challenge myself and race for time, as opposed to racing to finish.  I am currently enrolled to run the NY marathon Fall 08, to help raise money for my newly founded not for profit organization, which raises money to help families with autistic children called, “The Nicholas Foundation”.  I am new to Full Throttle this year and I must say that this group has made me feel very welcome. It is difficult to be around such tremendous athletes as a beginner.  However, the support and enthusiasm they have shown me makes it easier for me to stay focused on my end goal.

	Veterans Day 10K 11/11/07 —  WASHINGTON DC, DC	35:44
	Ironman Florida 2007 11/3/07 —  Panama City Beach, FL	10:11:42
	Longhorn Triathlon - Half Iron 10/7/07 —  Austin, TX	4:45:44
	The Nation's Triathlon 9/29/07 —  Washington, DC	1:57:52
	ITU World Championships 9/2/07 —  Hamburg, 02	2:08:45
	Nautica New York City Triathlon 2007 7/22/07 —  New York, NY	2:02:10

  http://www.espenusa.com/

   Will comes to Triathlon from a running background in college and high school.  His PR’s are 9:58 in the 2 mile, 34:03 10k, and 3:09 marathon.  College also introduced Will to multisport where he competed in Ocean lifesaving and Kayak racing events.

 Will has worked as a Camera Operator in the Movie industry since 1991 in New York City until meeting his wife in California and moving there in 2006.  He lives and trains in Marin county north of San Francisco, and also works and trains in Los Angeles when he has to!  The training is much nicer in Marin!  When in the area call him up for a ride or a nice chilly bay swim.  Bring your wetsuit! 

Will’s 2007 season consisted of all top 10 finishes.  7th in age group (35-39) at Ventura.  1st in under 40 Clydesdales at NYC.  9th in age group at Los Angeles Tri and 4th at the Team Nationals in Missouri.  Just missing the podium for 3rd at Nationals was a big heartbreak as he caught the guy in front in the last mile of the run.  However a 2 min penalty on the bike course was a big lesson learned. Experience is just as valuable as speed, and Will is looking fwd to helping FT defend its crown at Nationals in Vegas in ’08. 

Having hunted around Northern & Southern California for a cohesive unit to replace the comraderie and inspiration of FT since moving west, Will has yet to find anything as strong and cohesive.  This is why he gratefully continues his relationship w/ Scott Berlinger and the FT brothers & Sisters, and meets up with them to race whenever he can. 

  Former Marine Corps officer who began participating in triathlons about 5 years ago to stay in shape, challenge myself with something new and to rekindle a camaraderie with a team that I was so used to having in the military. Although I don't make many of the practices, Full Throttle has always been a great team to race for and is filled with good people who are a constant source of motivation.

   International distance and Xterra...he is also part of the largest chiropratic business in Pittsburgh...Pittsburgh Chiropractic

2007

Fat Rabbit        2:27:24

Pittsburgh         2:28:59

Baierl Family    1:16:06

Chicago            2:33:01

   Scott was an original member of the Full Throttle team and competed in three triathlons during the 2004 season. Unfortunately, after the 2004 season, the proverbial wheels fell off the cart. He retired and made quick peace with a slower and more restful existence. 2008 will hopefully mark his return to Full Throttle. When he is not contemplating a return to Full Throttle, Scott is the Senior Vice President of Marketing & Artist Development for the RCA Music Group, which includes RCA, Arista and J Records and manages the campaigns of such artists as: Annie Lennox, Aretha Franklin, Barry Manilow, Carrie Underwood, Christina Aguilera, Jennifer Hudson, Leona Lewis, Luther Vandross, Paula DeAnda, Rod Stewart, Sarah McLachlan, Taylor Hicks and Whitney Houston.

  Taso is a former college and semi-pro hockey player who found himself falling deeper into a work-related sedentary and inactive lifestyle complete with an airport diet. This physical low-point in his life required the motivation, challenge and camaraderie that is a part of the (ungodly morning hour) Full Throttle training program. With Scott’s leadership, he was able to get through enough work-outs to finish his first triathlon in 2007. Although personally disappointed with his finish, the experience was extremely uplifting. Taso vows to be in town enough to make more morning practices and become a real contender in the 2008 season – not to mention get himself out of the Clydesdale division.

Taso is the founder and creative head of a Manhattan-based advertising firm called PLUM Agency and he teaches a college class at Pratt.

   Ray comes to triathlon from a running background. He competed in Track and Field and Cross Country in College. After college, Ray started training and competing in road races. In 1995 he moved up to the marathon. To date Ray has run seven Marathons, three under 3 hours. Ray is most proud of his 2:49 at the 1997 Boston Marathon. In 2003, Ray started cross training and joined Full Throttle. After several years competing at the Olympic distance, this year he moved up to long course, competing in the Eagleman Half Ironman and the Lake Placid Ironman. In 2008, Ray plans to focus on the Half Ironman distance. What Ray most likes about competing for Full Throttle is the added motivation of training and racing with the team.

  John is a general athlete, having focused largely on adventure racing, alpinism and recreational mountain biking over the last ten years. In 2007, he switched his primary focus to triathlon and achieved success with several age group podium finishes. John hopes to get over his dislike of swimming and running while maintaining fast bike times in 2008. In addition to sprint and olympic distances, John is planning to try the half-iron / 70.3 distance.

  After more than 10 years away from the sport Scott jumped back into triathlons in 2006 after getting into the Escape from Alcatraz triathlon while at the same time seeing an article about Coach Berlinger and the Full Throttle Team in Men's Health magazine. At first Scott couldn't believe this was the same person he knew from age-group and high school swimming and also the Gladiator "Viper", but sure enough it was. With Coach Berlinger's help Scott had a great Alcatraz debut and his successful return to the sport continued with several podium finishes and one age group victory over the past two seasons. As part of the National Championship Team Scott ended 2007 with another podium finish at Nationals and goals for 2008 are to continue to enjoy the comraderie and competitiveness shared on the Full Throttle Team while putting more time into training and improving results across the board.

   Steve is the Managing Director/Principal for Bear Stearns Co. Inc in Atlanta.
He is a Category 1 Road and Track rider with the USA Cycling.
South Carolina Men’s State Crit Champion in 1998
2 Time South Carolina Men’s Masters Road Racing Champion
Silver Metal in the 4000m Pursuit at Festival of Speed 2007
4th in the Rivergate Pro 1/2 Event in 2007
And is personally responsible for pulling the “Italy Group” all the way to Switzerland and getting all of us very lost.

  Yankee fan, enough said.........not a good thing

  Dave had a very rewarding second season with Full Throttle; completing his first Half-Ironman, wining his division at the team nationals in St. Louis and podium finishes at three other races. He enjoys the camaraderie of training with the team and his wife Jen, also a member of Full Throttle. When not in tight-fitting spandex, Dave works as a brand strategy and market research consultant for advertisers. He and his wife life in Chelsea, about three blocks from the gym.

   Before the last hint of muscle turned to jelly after the birth of their daughter, Lilah, Trip was in pretty decent shape. Over the last two decades, Trip has competed in over 100 triathlons, 10 marathons and 1/2 a dozen 24 hour mountain bike races. Trip raced with Full Throttle for two years before Lilah joined the world, and hopes to stage one of the greatest comebacks in sports history by being able to compete again in 2008.

   Born and raised in Colombia, Luis came to the US to play Division I college tennis. Subsequent to finishing college and pursuing a career in finance, Luis moved to New York City. After a few years in the City and frustrated with the challenge of finding enough court time and other players to practice with he turned to swimming and running. Eventually,
to increase the diversity and challenge of his work outs his brother encouraged him to cross train and practice the three disciplines involved in the world of triathlon.

Luis has been a member of the Full Throttle team during the past four years. He enjoys racing the Olympic and Half Ironman distances.

  Full Throttle is a terrific organization with a lot of motivated talented individuals. It is a really great bunch of people who are a pleasure to train with in addition to being a real driving force for improvement. I look forward to training with them for the 2008 Season.

"2007 Citizenship Award"

  Anthony is from the northern suburbs of New York and has lived in NYC for fifteen years. Anthony started doing triathlons and triathlon training with Full Throttle in 2006. He enjoys racing the sprint and olympic distances. In 2007 he competed in his first half ironman. Anthony is an information technology consultant, Reiki practitioner and is certified as a holistic health counselor. He is currently studying eastern approaches to health and healing and attending interfaith seminary, which is leading him toward ordination as an interfaith minister. What Anthony loves most about triathlons is not the races themselves, but training with the Full Throttle team where he is supported and motivated.

   Scott has been hooked on the multi sport lifestyle since his first Wyckoff-Franklin Lakes Triathlon in 1999. After his initial season with Full Throttle, he beat his long time nemesis for the first time in 8 years. Scott has competed in Sprint, Olympic and Half-Ironman distances. Full Throttle is a tremendous group of motivated and talented people. If you love teamwork and competitive camaraderie, this is the place for you. Scott is President and Co-Founder of Scojo New York. He lives in Tribeca with his wife Patricia Willens and their three young children: Noah, Eve and Gideon.

  2007 was my first year with Full Throttle. I completed my first triathlon, New York and took a age-group duathlon podium at Harriman.

For 2008, my goals are to complete another triathlon, more duathlon podiums, and gain entry to New York City marathon.

Also, I would like to beat more than 120 people out of the Hudson River. I can only get better.

   Mike raced his first race at the 2008 Stamford Triathlon. This will be the first of many. He lives in NJ with his wife and 3 children. SURF and SNOW BOARD DUDE!!!!

"2007 Best Karaoke"

   Chris Ross has lived in New York for the past 8 years. Originally from the UK – an international career in advertising had him living out of a suitcase with little time for a regular training regimen. Until joining the Full Throttle team mid season in 2007 – his most physical achievement was the Singapore Half Marathon in 1999. Chris’ Karaoke skills currently exceed his athletic prowess but he is hoping to address this in 2008.

   As Coach Berlinger’s college roommate at the University of South Carolina, I have watched the transformation of young man with excellent athletic abilities into an inspirational, knowledgeable and extremely dedicated coach and mentor.  I enjoy the dedication and camaraderie of the entire Full Throttle Endurance Team and have learned a great deal from the program.  I am looking forward to making my come back in 2008.

    Original member of Full Throttle team since 2003

Main events include:
1998 JFK 50mile Appalachian Trail Maryland, US
1999 Marathon des Sables, 250km Sahara Desert, Morocco
2000 Eco-Challenge, 320mile Borneo, Malaysia
2002 Jordan Cup, 104mile Wadi Rum, Jordan
2004 Gobi March, 250km Gobi Desert, China
Lives in Manhattan with his wife and two kids.

"2007 Most Improved Cyclist"

  Joe is a Sales Representative for Haworth Inc. - he was transfered to
New York from Edmonton, Alberta 13 years ago with a Canadian Office
Furniture Manufacturer.  Joe has always been athletic from
participating in cycling charity events to running but, had not swam
since childhood.  After getting back into the pool he put it all
together in 2003 and begun competing in triathlons.  Of the three
disciplines running was always his strongest pursuit but after
working hard on his cycling in the 2007 season and subsequently
receiving "Most Improved Cyclist" he believes cycling has now become
his strongest event.  In 2008 Joe is focused on bring his running
time in the International Triathlons to under 40 minutes.

   Ken is a competitive masters swimmer and current metropolitan record holder in the 100 breastroke for the 40-44 age group.  He was a  former division I swimmer and school record holder at the University of Virginia.  Past athletic accomplishments include: olympic trial qualifier, high school eastern champion, world club relay record holder 400 meter medley (short course), national sports festival participant; 1981,1983.  In 2008, Ken looks forward to competing in May at the masters swimming nationals in Austin, Texas and some quality training with the FullThrottle team.

  Paul Brahim, CFP, AIFA, managing director of the BPU Investment Management, Inc., was named one of Reuters AdvicePoint’s 200 Top Advisors 2008. 

Brahim is responsible for the management of personal financial planning and asset management methods and processes for application with individuals, families, retirement plans, and non-profit investment portfolios. He serves private clients with a typical net worth over $1 million and institutional clients with assets over $5,000,000.  He manages and consults on more than $500 million in total.  Brahim majored in Chemistry and English at Washington and Jefferson College.   Brahim has been a financial planner for more than 20 years. He started as an independent advisor in 1986 after working in pharmaceutical sales and in 1997 joined BPU, one of Pennsylvania’s largest independent wealth management firms. He is one of four advisors chosen by Reuters from western Pennsylvania.

  Multi year USAT All American, top 10 USAT national ranking 2005, Multi Year Kona qualifier, AG wins/podium in every distance from sprint to Ironman, top 10 all time AG finishes at IM Arizona and IM CDA, USAT level 1 and USCF Expert Coach certification, acheivement of performance PR's for 12 consecutive years.

  A Catholic priest and a Jesuit, Tom has completed his second full season of training and racing.  A relative newcomer to the world of triathlons, he managed to take first place in his division at St. Louis Team Nationals.  His "calling" and "advanced age" notwithstanding, he maintains his training schedule to stay competitive and to keep Coach Berlinger only seconds ahead on the race course.

  At first I thought there was no way I could start my workouts at
5:30 am, but I was signed up for the NYC Triathlon and I needed to train for it.

At first it was a shock to my life, but after a few weeks the intensity of the training was paying off. I started to feel strong and I liked it. One thing about getting up at 4:30 in the morning to workout is that it keeps you out of the bars.
After all, you can't soar with the eagles in the morning if you are going to hoot with the owls at night!

  Don has been training with Full Throttle since 2004 and completed his first triathlon shortly after his 50th birthday that year.  Don was a rower in college and loves the similar year-round training regimen of triathlons (even if it means getting up hours before the sunrise).   The races are also fun for Don but he wishes his cycling wasn't so darn slow.      Don is a partner at the law firm of Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman and lives in Greenwich Village with his wife Karen Lavine, an occasional (she claims former but we'll see) triathlete.  They have two grown children, Dan and Ellie.

  Brian was born and raised in Long Island, New York and graduated SUNY
Stony Brook with a degree in economics. After traveling extensively and
living all over the world during the earlier years of his career, Brian
has settled with his family in Far Hills, New Jersey.

  Brian has over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry
and joined APX in January 2008 as Chairman and CEO to help the firm
realize its vision as the infrastructure backbone and provider of choice
for the energy and environmental commodities markets.

  Brian is also owner and president of Storms’ Motors, a multi-franchise
automobile dealership in Southampton, NY.

  In his spare time, Brian enjoys sailing, skiing, tennis, biking and, of
course, training for triathlons.

  Al Puma: Al's athletic career started in 1979. Participating in almost 800 races in 29 years, Al's best times are: Mile - 5:20; 5K - 18:35; 5 Miles - 30:30; 10K - 38:17; 10 Miles - 64:56; and Marathon - 3:14:55. Empire State Building Run Up - 16:43 at 63 years old. In the last decade, Al has completed Biathlons, Triathlons, Bike Races, 36 plus Stair Climbs, Javelin/Discus throwing and Rowing.
Al's goal is to stay mentally and physically fit in his senior years.
Al's recommendations is to "FOLLOW YOUR BLISS".
Hobbies: Photography and preaching the virtues of exercise and diet for all.
Al is 78 years old.

                    Meet the Female Athletes

   Ryan 1st race was age 3 at the Boston kids run, while her dad was racing in the Boston Triathlon. She hopes to race with the team in the coming years. She now swims without a life vest. She also rides her Jamis bike proudly.

From the time I was 11 years old all I wanted to do was play competitive golf, a sport that most girls do not even consider playing.  After competing as a junior golfer and then going on to play Division 1 Golf for Siena College, I was introduced to a new challenge.  Being introduced to triathlons from an already competing member of Full Throttle Endurance, I was told that completing such a race would be an experience of a life time.  Even though I did not train as hard or as long as I should have I completed my first triathlon (sprint) at Harriman State Park in June 2007.  It was an experience like no other.  It not only physically tested my body, but mentally as well, and it proved that I can accomplish any challenge I put my mind to.  Even though I am a full time graduate student I am now making more time to train for future triathlons.  I look forward to crossing the finish line at the NYC Triathlon this summer, pushing and testing my body farther than I ever have.

   Beth got into triathlon after seeing the Ironman on T.V. And thinking. . . “Are those people insane???” After cheering on her Dad in a sprint relay triathlon she decided to try one herself. In 2001 she swam a little, biked a handfull of times and made sure (once) she could at least complete the 5 mile run. On race day she thought she might die but dragged herself across the finish Line. She has been training and racing ever since. In 2004 Beth joined Full Throttle and was instantly adicted to the team spirit, competition, and friendship. Since joining, she has competed in countless sprints, a bunch of olyimpic's, the NYC marathon, 2 half Ironman’s and in 2007 completed her first Ironman in Madison, Wi. She is looking forward to less training but faster times in 2008.
Beth is the photo editor of Body + Soul magazine and lives with her husband in Franklin Lakes, NJ.

"2007 Most Improved Athlete"

My former trainer, Phillip Morris (aka: Marlboro), kept me thin, but far from healthy. I switched from light to ultra-light numerous times before I realized that, "It's what's on the inside that counts." My physique, as ultra-light as it may've been, was not worth risking my lungs, heart, life, etc...set that aside, Scott was relentless in his efforts to get me to quit. I broke up with Phillip and his toxic tricks over a year ago after almost 8 years of tar-filled/nicotine-needing delusion. I started rollerblading (I know) and running in 1/4 mile increments (which actually hurt) until I established an aerobic capacity to start training at a beginner's level. Full Throttle took me under its wing and turned me into a National Champ...which group? Athena...ultra-light is out; 1st in my division is in.

  Maria started endurance events in 2004 completing the Dublin marathon and several other local running races. In 2006, she moved to NYC and joined Chelsea Piers. She was always curious about triathlons but was, like many, intimidated by the swim. After meeting Coach Berlinger, he convinced her that he, "could fix that.” That he did, and 1.5 years, 8 triathlons, and 3 podiums later, she is hooked on the sport and looks forward to improving her performance in the upcoming season.
Maria is the Fitness Director at gravity fitness and spa in Le Parker Meridien Hotel.

  My first introduction with triathalon was an email that said, "if you're going to train, you might as well have a goal." This begins my first triathalon season. I bought a bike and new running shoes. For some reason, most additional purchases involved some type of spandex. I guess I had given in. Coming off of a fairly serious accident, my season was filled with many discoveries about myself and my limits. However, having a team and a goal kept me going. I've always loved to move and challenge myself, so my goal was to finish my triathalon with a smile on my face. I finished my first and only race, the Mighty Hamptons, pretty much beaming. Thanks for a great first season, Full Throttle!

   I grew up swimming. And five years ago I picked up running. Scott promises I'll get into cycling now that I actually own a bike...here's hoping he's right. This is my first season with the Full Throttle and I've already been welcomed with such open (and competitive) arms. I'm looking forward to my first triathlon this summer.

   In 2005, I started training for my first triathlon. I spent the year getting back in shape after a 15-year hiatus from sports. In 2006, I became more mentally and physically dedicated to triathlons and completed a half ironman.

   My major accomplishments of 2007 included:

1st in my age group at the Harriman Half Ironman

3rd in my age group at the Pat Griskus Olympic Triathlon

Lake Placid Ironman finish, which I trained all year for with my Full Throttle teammates.

   After completing The New York Marathon for the second time in 2007, I decided to add new facets to my training regimen.  I am juiced to train with a team of committed, determined and talented athletes. 

   Beth had a very successful first season in 2007 with Full Throttle taking at least twenty minutes off of her best time in every Olympic race. As tiring as FTE made her by the time 8a.m. rolled around it doesn't compare to the physical exhaustion of teaching pre-school in a restored upper west side Browstone with four flights of stairs! Being around so many hard working individuals at FTE in the mornings kept her motivated to hold her children to similar high standards, resulting in 4 out of 5 of her at risk four year olds being accepted or wait listed into NYC's Gifted and Talented Program.

  Jennifer grew up at the foot of Mt. Hood in Oregon and was an avid skier, racer and instructor. When she moved to the East coast several years ago she found the snow a little too icy, the lift lines a little too long, and the ski areas a few too many hours away. She discovered a new outlet for her love of technically-challenging sports when she competed in her first triathlon four years ago. 2007 was Jennifer's second year with Full Throttle. She had an up and down season due to injuries, but got healthy in time to finish her first half-Ironman at Eagleman in Maryland. And after narrowly missing the podium on several occasions she finally claimed her first age group win at her last race of the season in Montauk. Outside of triathlon she directs global communications and brand strategy for American Express at Ogilvy & Mather.

   Julie competed with Full Throttle for two years before the birth of her daughter, Lilah, put in a crimp in her training schedule. While new to the sport of triathlon, Julie is an accomplished athlete, taking advantage of her 6' 3 inch height to play 4 years of Georgetown basketball. Julie competed in a number of triathlons, winning the Athena category at West Point and Southhampton in 2005, where she was 17 weeks pregnant. Julie, too, is hoping to accompany her now pudgy husband back to the glory of their fit past.

   Stacy joined Full Throttle after her personal trainer of many years became pregnant! She figured Scott couldn't get knocked up, so made the commitment to get in the pool at un-godly hours. Scott holds the distinguished accomplishment of being the only person who can tell Stacy what to do.

All kidding aside, Scott’s coaching has given Stacy the skill, focus and determination to accomplish goals she previously only had dreamed of attaining. Stacy is now training for her first but not last half irnonman.

Racing since 2002:

2 X Inside triathlon All American  

5X USAT All American

5X Hawaii Ironman Finisher

4XTeam USA – 5th at Olympic Distance Worlds 04

2nd Overall NYC 2004

  Adrienne Jakson has been one of the original Full Throttle members since 2003. Adrienne joined the group without knowing how to swim at all. Six weeks later she completed her first sprint triathlon and was hooked for life. She has competed in many races since then in cities near and far: St Petersburg. Philly. Boston, and the New York area. Olympic distance being her favorite length and her favorite race courses are the New York City and Philadelphia Triathlons. In between triathlon seasons Adrienne also likes to race half and full marathons. Adrienne has the work hard/play hard attitude in all aspects of her life. Her professional career is in Sales and Marketing in the pharmaceuticals industry, and travels often on business and for fun. Having Full Throttle actually helps manage her work/life balance, keeping her committed to improving her physical and mental fitness. " I am highly competitive in everything I do. I am hooked on the energy of training and competing with my Full Throttle team-mates, and how we all push each other through healthy competition (ha ha! ) everytime we're together. The best part of racing is the thrill of the Start and the awesome feeling when you cross the Finish Line!"

  This was my 1st triathlon season and my 1st season training with Full Throttle. It all began with a challenge from a co-work to do the NYC-Triathlon. So, not knowing what I was getting myself into I accepted his challenge not being able to complete 1 full lap swimming in the pool. Thanks to "Top Notch Coach" Scott Berlinger and all of my Full Throttle teammates I completed the NYC-Triathlon in 2:57:40. I also competed in the SOBE MOSSMAN Triathlon and (2) 1/2 Marathons.

I am officially hooked on racing!

  Candy has been training with Full Throttle for the past 3 years. She did her first tri in 2001 and has been hooked ever since. When not training, Candy spends her time teaching at the French Culinary Institute.  Cooking is her first obsession.”Cooking is a lot like endurance sports, you train/prepare, you execute, and then the finish is rewarding” Candy resides in Manhattan with her partner and poodle.

  Janet is a veteran racer having competed in her first triathalon in 1995, but began competive swimming in 1968. She joined Full Throttle in 2006 after participating in "visit the team" workouts and says she was hooked on the positive infectious energy of the entire group and had finally found a "training home". Janet is a single mom of 3 children. The apple does not fall far from the tree, she and her daughter (11yrs) competed together in 2007 at the Westpoint triathlon. When not training for the next triathlon she can be found racing J-24 sailboats on the Hudson. Janet resides in Manhattan and is a practicing Physiologist specalizing in repetitive motion injuries.

  Stasi is a veteran of 20 NYC Marathons, including 2007,  but a relative newcomer to triathlons.

At the tender age of 50, she learned to swim and has been training with Full Throttle ever since..

Stasi has competed in the NYC, West Point, Danskin and Central Park Triathlons.

When she is not training, Stasi works as a nurse practitioner at Cornell Internal Medicine Associates and is the mother of 3… 4 if you count Scott.

  This was Lisa’s first season with Full Throttle. Her teenage children and husband are amazed that she wakes up two hours before them to train at Chelsea Piers.  When she’s not racing around the track, Lisa is running around starting a wine business. Best races of 2007: #1 W50-59 Giant Steps 5K, #2 W50-54 Brooklyn Biathlon, #2 W55-59 LI Gold Coast Sprint Triathlon.