Athlete of the Month

The Team Sheeper Athlete of the Month award is handed out to a member of the team on a monthly basis, 7 or 8 times a year. The AOM is someone who made a notable contribution to the team or did something remarkable. Selection is made by nomination and voting by the membership.

You can nominate anyone and the nomination period is usually during the first week or two of the month. Look for notification that nominations are being sought.  When nomination close, the voting starts and once all the votes are tallied, the new AOM is crowned.

Besides bragging rights for a month, our AOM gets some goodies from our gracious sponsors, such as free shoes from TRH, a massage from SMI, gift certificates from GoRide.

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GoRide Bicycles is proud to sponsor this month's athlete who embodies the spirit of Team Sheeper. Located in Redwood City, GoRide Bicycles continues the 30-year tradition of Garner's Pro Bikes.

Vaagn Toukharian

July 2011 Athlete of the Month

"Vaagn has put in a tremendous amount of effort at team workouts, many times a week, always with a smile on his face. Well deserved finish at Vineman!"
"A cherished team-mate, humble athlete, altruistic individual and rising triathlon star"
"Vaagn really stepped it up this year to prepare for Vineman - he was always there and working hard, even if he had been partying into the wee hours the night before. Great first Ironman, Vaagn!"
- Fellow Teammates.

What did you want to be when you were growing up?

I wanted to be a fighter jet pilot, but failed to grow up strong and healthy.

Do you have a spouse or children or pets to tell us about?

I have a very supportive wife, Evelina, and two fast boys Grigor and Narek.

What other hobbies do you have?

Photography, but lately only one hobbie, sleeping.

How did you become involved with Team Sheeper?

Thanks to Google search.

What is your athletic background?

Swimming in the elementary school, then some martial arts.

What motivates/inspires you?

There is no deficit of inspiration in the Team.

What races are you planning for the remainder of this year, or the future, that you are gearing up for?

IM AZ in November.

Tell us about your best & worst race.

Nothing really stands out. There are parts of all races that are vivid in my memory full of excitement and joy. The worst stuff is blacked out.

How many hours a week do you train?

As many as possible, without getting a call from a divorce lawyer.

What is your favorite Team Sheeper workout or memorable moment?

I used to hate chase-groups a year ago. Used to wake up in the cold sweat the night before the workouts. It has so much intensity that I used to worry and get over-exited before every chase. It took a year to get to used to it, and little by little it became easier, fun and my favorite exercise.

What is your favorite race?

San Francisco half marathon, fast, beautiful course. Not to short not too long, not too flat not too hilly.