Ambassador Highlight: Scott DeFilippis

Everyone in the triathlon scene has taken a different path to get where they are today. However, none match up to the odds-defying upbringing that Scott DeFilippis had. As late as high school, Scott didn’t know how to swim, and learning that and the biking portions of the race set him on his journey towards being a triathlete. “A very good friend of mine, Brian Shea, who was a top age group triathlete, taught me how to swim when I was in high school,” Scott recalls. “Brian played a huge part in setting me on my journey helping me not just with my swim, but with getting my first bike. He even encouraged me to apply for a USAT recruitment camp held every summer.” This pivotal mentorship from Brian opened the door for Scott to become a member of USAT’s elite development team in the early 2000’s. Furthermore, Scott also transitioned from being a collegiate runner to triathlete, and that transition was not an easy one. “It took me a long time to wrap my head around racing for several hours and then have to figure out how to fuel myself for long distance triathlons,” said Scott. “I was only interested in racing short, fast events, and I never thought that one day I would have raced in dozens of half and full distance triathlons that’s for sure”. 

That was just the beginning of Scott’s journey in the triathlon scene, and little did he know it would continue for the rest of his life. Nearly 20 years later, he found himself competing at Wildflower in 2018 with his now-wife, Carrie Lester, which ended up being one of his most memorable racing experiences. “We raced alongside several athletes we were coaching at KIS Coaching, our triathlon coaching company,” Scott remembers. “We rented a big house right next to the last big climb on the bike course. It was such a great weekend all around, especially the after party Saturday night!” Wildflower’s vibrant atmosphere and culture left a mark on Scott, and he’s especially excited for the return of Wildflower this year. “Some of the great events like Wildflower have gone away, and I think triathletes and the sport in general are ready for the return of events such as Wildflower”, Scott mentioned. “I am excited to be out there all week as a coach and vendor taking it all in and embracing the festival atmosphere.” 

Now, Scott prides himself in helping other triathletes like himself succeed in the sport. When reflecting upon some of his most impactful success stories as a coach, Scott had this to say. “I have had the pleasure of helping so many incredible human beings over the years, ranging from someone who was a couch potato turned 70.3 finisher inside 3 months to coaching age group world champions! I’ve also helped numerous professional athletes in living their dream in winning races or qualifying for World Championship events”, exclaimed Scott. He also lived the dream of coaching his wife for the final 8 years of her career, who transitioned from an Australian Olympic Trials track participant to a professional triathlete and 16-time Iron Distance Champion. “I may be biased, but Carrie’s rise, not just in our sport of triathlon but across all endurance sports, is one of the most remarkable stories I’ve ever encountered”, said Scott. For those trying to compete in the triathlon scene in the future, coach Scott recommends embracing the swimming portion of the race. “Swimming is such an important life skill and it’s an exercise you can do for the rest of your life”, Scott attests. “It’s like getting a massage and seeing a physical therapist all at once while also giving yourself a terrific aerobic workout. Build the race from the front, meaning make the swim a priority and the bike and run will be much more enjoyable.” With Wildflower making its grand return this year, we’re super excited to see Scott and his family there paving the way for other triathletes!