Chris Lieto

Profession: Professional Triathlete, Ironman

Claim to Fame: Lieto has claimed 2 US National Titles, has over 15 victories, Runner up at two World Championships, and won the 2006 Ironman Japan, 2005 Ironman Canada and 2002 Ironman Wisconsin triathlons

Birthplace: Danville, California

Birthday: February 7, 1972

Height: 6 ft.

my After is: Refueling with lowfat chocolate milk

Fun Facts:

• Just months after his first Hawaii Ironman in 1998, Lieto’s best friend accidentally drove over his foot, fracturing it in more than 50 places. Though his surgeon said he’d never run again, Lieto bounced back and qualified for Hawaii the following year.
• After a disappointing race career in 2005, Lieto chose to return to work as a mortgage broker while still continuing to train. Lieto said that returning to work "...helped me balance the time and focus I put into triathlon.”

Short Bio:
Lieto grew up in Danville, California and later began his athletic career playing collegiate water polo at Long Beach State University. In 1997, he saw the Hawaii Ironman Triathlon World Championship on television and decided to participate in his first triathlon ever, which he won, becoming a professional triathlete just three years later. In 2003, he went on to place 13th at that same championship he saw on television which sparked his interest in the sport. Since 2003, Lieto has competed in 80-plus triathlons, with 15 major victories, including three Ironman wins, a U.S. Ironman and 70.3 championship, and three top-10 finishes at the World Championship in Hawaii, highlighted by placing second overall in 2009. Lieto currently resides in California with his wife Karis and son Kaiden.

Doing Good:
Lieto founded the More Than Sport organization to provide a way for athletes to invest in communities of need, particularly those we compete in. We are able to improve the lives of children and communities around the world when we become athletes who live for more than sport. Charity partners include: Homes of Hope, Path, World Vision, Freedom Place, YMCA and Kona Community Hospital.