Ambassador Highlight: Sam Clark

As a spectator of Wildflower in 2003, Sam Clark cheered on his friends that were racing at Wildflower. Little did he know that a simple nudge of inspiration would lead to a passion spanning two decades. “I had a friend that signed up to do a triathlon with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Team in Training program,” he recalls. “I met his team before their race and decided I would like to do it too.” 22 years later, Sam is still going, and he’s already marking off Wildflower on the calendar. Among the many races he’s participated in, Wildflower Triathlon holds a special place in his heart. After attending his first event in 2003 to cheer on friends, Sam was hooked. By the next year, he was racing the Olympic course, and in 2005, he co-coached a group of over 50 participants to the event. “It was a big part of my life and my gang of triathletes as we made the annual trek to Lake San Antonio to camp and race,” he says. Now, after a brief hiatus, Wildflower is back, and for Sam and countless others, the anticipation is building.

Wildflower isn’t just another triathlon. It’s a legendary event known for its challenging courses and unforgettable atmosphere. “Wildflower is definitely a challenging course that requires some mental toughness,” Sam explains. Whether it’s the steep climbs or moments of self-doubt, he has developed techniques to stay strong. “I thank all the volunteers. During the run, I’ll sometimes run alongside someone that’s my pace, encouraging them, and sometimes just chatting helps to clear the chatter in the brain.” When running solo, he leans on mantras like “pain is temporary, pride is forever” and memories of past perseverance. These strategies have carried him through years of racing at Wildflower, but for Sam, the event is about more than crossing the finish line. “Our team would wait for our final participant, and everyone would run together down the chute in celebration,” he says. “That moment was really special.” With only a few finishers coming through the chute, it was a special moment for Sam that he’ll always remember.

Now, with Wildflower’s return, Sam is filled with excitement and nostalgia. “My Facebook is filled with a decade of memories of me and my friends traveling to Wildflower to coach and race,” he says. The race has always been about more than the competition. It’s a weekend of camping, camaraderie, and shared triumphs. “I always tell people they must camp with a group. The camaraderie of everyone camping, partying, recovering, helping each other up the hill after a race… it’s just beyond comparison.” After years of going without Wildflower, Sam is thrilled to see it returning. “We have been anxiously watching the information about Wildflower, hoping the rumors were true,” he says. “I miss the tree I slept under for so many years. I have to air out the tent and hopefully get there in time to get my favorite spot!” As the event approaches, the excitement grows. Wildflower’s return is not just a comeback, but a revival of a cherished tradition that has inspired and connected numerous athletes over the years. We’re excited to create many more memories this year!