SAU Elite

SAU Elite started when chemistry professor Dr. Tom Kuntzleman decided he wanted to take up the cause of Nathan Martin as a person and as a potential Olympic athlete. Tom was training for his first ever iron man. Tom collaborated with SAU coaching staff Dante Ottolini, Jeremy Smith, Dean of Students Kim Hayworth and President Brent Ellis. Nathan had gone through a tough senior year losing his mom to cancer and had significant financial needs. Tom wanted to get pledges for each mile swam, biked and ran. He wanted something to help drive him through the grueling 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike and 26,2 mile run. It was unbelievable to see how many people from the community, university and all over the US rallied and pledged over $11,000 in financial support. Nathan recently finished 5th in the USA Marathon Championships qualifying him for the Olympic Trials. Nathan has decided it is best for him to remain in community and close to family and hometown Three Rivers. He has so much support that he felt this was better than going to join a another training group. The SAU Elite support has helped supplement Nathan's training, travel and gear. Nathan is currently student teaching and building towards a personal goal of becoming financially independent. In the meantime Ted Comden and his wife were hospitable and housed Nathan free of charge. Nathan is now living with his coach's family. THANK YOU for sharing in this journey. God's hand has been so evident in the process.