James (Jay) is not new to the triathlon scene. He’s been a competitive age-group triathlete since 2003. Jay earned a Bachelor of Agriculture Degree from the University of Tennessee, Martin where he walked-on to the Cross Country team as a Junior. Upon graduation he began taking triathlon more seriously. While at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville earning his Master of Plant Science Degree, Jay was an active member of the collegiate triathlon club and repeatedly earned USAT All American Honors. After graduating he continued to race and train while working as an agronomist in Asia. Jay’s work experiences were exciting but offered little time to train. Jay knew triathlon could be more than just a hobby, if only he could find a way to dedicate himself more fully.
Jay returned Stateside in late 2009 and was fit enough for a top-20 finish at Age-Group Nationals and 21st at ITU Age-Group Worlds. Jay aspires to race professionally, and he’s got the dedication and work ethic to do it.
When Jay is not training, he’s a Research Assistant and PhD Candidate at Auburn University’s Department of Agronomy & Soils. His dissertation evaluates methods of improving turfgrass sustainability in urban environments.
| Hometown:Dyer, TN.Currently residing in:Auburn, ALEducation: Bachelor of Agriculture, the University of Tennessee, Martin, 2006;Master of Plant Science, the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, 2008.
Athletic background: High School Marching Band; Collegiate Cross Country and Track, 2004 to 2006. Triathlon career highlights: 2011 New Orleans 70.3 Overall Amateur; REV 3 Amateur Series Winner (2010 and 2011). Season goals: USAT Collegiate National Champion; Improve upon 2011 results with several 70.3 wins; race competitively as a professional triathlete. |
Favorite workout: long rides on dirt roads.What gets you out of bed in the morning?Coffee.What/who inspires you? People who enjoy life.What insight/advice would you like to share with aspiring triathletes? A clean bike is more reliable than a dirty one.
Why do you race triathlon? It challenges me to be more efficient in my daily life and keeps me healthy. What has been your biggest challenge in triathlon? Finding the time to train AND take care of my body. What is your greatest strength in triathlon? Mental toughness. Shout out to: my North West TN friends (my enablers). Hobbies: hiking, traveling, and the arts. Website: http://www.jamesdmccurdy.com | @jamesdmccurdy Media Links: |
