The Tris4Health Ambassadors are a group of people from your very own community that love all things cycling, running, multi-sport and racing. They also are passionate about making sure that when someone steps up to a Tris4Health event, they feel an environment that is friendly, positive and FUN as well as inclusive and welcoming. This year, when you see athletes racing in the T4H blue, make sure to say hello!
Meet Brandon Hopkins! Brandon joined the Tris4Health Ambassador program last year and returns again for his second multisport season. Brandon is what you call a well-rounded multisport athlete. He has done almost every distance/format. He has done a sprint tri at Grand Rapids Triathlon, to an ultra-distance at Michigan Titanium. He does aquabike formats and even has dived into the gravel world, participating at Ugly Dog and The Dirty Mitten.
Name: Brandon Hopkins
Age: 36
Profession: Warranty and technical support manager at Weller Truck Parts
Hometown: Born and raised off of 36th street in Grand Rapids
How did you decide to be involved in the running/cycling/multisport community?
I started off as a runner, mainly participating in 5k and 10k events. However, I got tired of running all the time, so a coworker talked me into swimming and then trying a spin class or two. Next step was completing the Grand Rapids Triathlon sprint-distance race in 2018.
What benefit does participating in these events have on your life?
Participating means training, which means I need to be healthy and eat right. It also is a great example for my two daughters.
Favorite Tris4Health race and why?
By far my favorite race EVER is the Dirty Mitten triathlon. The environment before during and after was one of excitement, but also still relaxing so there wasn’t that nervousness before the swim.
Race goals for 2024?
Have fun! Im coming back from a knee injury and 2023 was mainly long distance racing. I love the fun of the shorter distance racing.
What do you love about endurance sports?
The finish line. The best part of these races is when you are at your absolute worse and want to quit, there is always someone on the course who will cheer you on and lift your spirits.
Advice for someone looking to get into running/cycling/triathlon?
Do it to have fun and meet new people. This community is so inviting to all skill levels and ages.
Favorite song to train/run/cycle to?
I have been known to blast some NWA on my log runs.
Favorite post-race meal?
Pizza, beer, and extra salty French fries from McDonalds.