Every Mile Matters: Help Luke Kittel Reach Patagonman
by Leslie Parsons
U.S. Army veteran Luke Kittel isn’t just training for a race—he’s training to make history. As one of the first amputees ever to compete in the grueling Patagonman Xtreme Triathlon, Luke is proving that limits are meant to be shattered. And now, True North is inviting supporters everywhere to join the journey—one mile, one shirt, one mission at a time.
Support Through Strength—and Style
To help raise funds for Luke’s race and his larger mission to inspire and empower adaptive athletes, True North has launched a custom t-shirt campaign. Proceeds from this campaign will be used to help cover Luke’s race fee and other expenses and to raise awareness for the adaptive athlete community. The shirts are available in both dark and light color options:
Each shirt represents more than just fabric—it’s a symbol of resilience, determination, and the collective spirit behind Luke’s mission. Full campaign details and updates are available at: True North: Luke Kittel’s Patagonman Journey
Training Through the Tides
Luke’s training is no small feat. With a demanding work schedule and a brand-new prosthetic to adjust to, every session is a balancing act. But his commitment is unwavering. On weekends, he regularly bikes 70–80 miles and runs up to 15. Sundays are reserved for open-water swims, where he joins a community of fellow athletes to mimic the cold-water conditions he’ll face in Patagonia.
Even though he lives in flat Florida, Luke’s preparing for the mountainous terrain of Patagonman by simulating elevation using specialized training equipment. It’s a tough road, but one he’s determined to travel—with courage, consistency, and the knowledge that he’s not alone.
Why It Matters
Held in the remote wilds of Chilean Patagonia, Patagonman is one of the most extreme triathlons in the world: a 2.4-mile swim in near-freezing water, a 114-mile bike ride through mountain passes, and a 26.2-mile trail run over rugged terrain. Athletes must provide their own support teams, and Luke’s wife Sue will be by his side every step of the way.
But Luke isn’t racing for personal glory. He’s racing to redefine what’s possible for wounded veterans and adaptive athletes.
How You Can Help
Buy a t-shirt. Share Luke’s story. Donate directly to his campaign. Cheer him on from afar. Every action—big or small—pushes him closer to the starting line in Patagonia and fuels the larger movement he represents.
Visit the True North Foundation’s campaign hub to stay updated on Luke’s progress and join us in showing the world what strength looks like.
Because when one veteran rises, we all do.