From 37 Yards to Kona: How the Worst Swim of My Life Led to Triathlon's Biggest Stage

In 2012, Jason Millsaps could barely swim 37 yards without gasping for air. Thirteen years later, he stood at the starting line of the IRONMAN World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, triathlon's most iconic stage. From 37 Yards to Kona is the inspiring true story of a worship pastor who transformed from energy drink-fueled burnout to world championship triathlete, discovering that the hardest races aren't always the ones with finish lines. When Jason first attempted to swim in his neighborhood pool, he nearly drowned in the shallow end. Overweight, out of shape, and wrestling with addiction, he seemed an unlikely candidate for endurance sports. But with the encouragement of his wife Andrea and the guidance of coach Scott Bennefield, Jason embarked on a journey that would take him through 16 IRONMAN races, two back surgeries, and ultimately to triathlon's biggest stages, both Kona, Hawaii and Nice, France. This memoir goes beyond race reports and training logs. It's about: Overcoming impossible odds when everyone (including yourself) doubts you can do it Balancing calling and passion as a full-time pastor, husband, father, and athlete Finding purpose in suffering through injuries, setbacks, and the brutal honesty of the IRONMAN distance Discovering that transformation happens one stroke, one pedal, one step at a time Whether you're a seasoned triathlete, a faith-driven athlete, or someone standing at the edge of your own seemingly impossible goal, Jason's story will inspire you to take the plunge. The journey from 37 yards to Kona wasn't just about becoming a better swimmer. It was about becoming a better man.