Discover the Journey of John Quattrocchi: From Casual Bowler to Triathlon Enthusiast
Once upon a time, John Quattrocchi believed he'd never lace up for a 5K race. Fast forward to today, and his calendar brims with competitions, including the eagerly awaited Back Mountain Triathlon next Sunday. This transformation from a self-proclaimed non-athlete to a triathlon contender is not just inspiring—it's a testament to the unpredictable joy of embracing new challenges.
John's journey began in Staten Island, New York, where he grew up in a family passionate about bowling. At 16, he clinched the Staten Island Individual Boys High School Championship and even bowled a perfect game—an extraordinary feat given the staggering odds of 11,500-to-1 against it. But beyond the lanes of Rab’s Country Lanes and the Knights of Columbus, John's athletic narrative was still to be written.
Post-high school, John ventured north to SUNY ESF in Syracuse, focusing on biotechnology. Though not engaged in organized sports, he kept active, occasionally hitting the gym. It was during this period that John made a vow that seems almost humorous in retrospect: "I’m never going to do a 5K."
Everything changed in May 2017 when John crossed paths with 5x IronMan Scott Skammer. Inspired, he began running outdoors, and by the following year, he had moved to Forty Fort to be closer to Scott. The once daunting 3-mile runs became a pleasure, and soon, John was ticking off races like the Wyoming Valley Striders Cherry Blossom 5-miler and the Utica Boilermaker 15K.
2019 marked a significant year as John returned to his roots for the Staten Island Half Marathon and ventured into cycling with his first Specialized bicycle from Around Town Bikes in Wilkes-Barre. Living with an IronMan, cycling became more than just training—it was a shared passion.
As his running and cycling skills sharpened, John also plunged into swimming, rapidly improving with consistent practice—a feat that typically takes years for many adults. His athletic prowess was no longer confined to the bowling alley; it now spanned across triathlon's demanding swim, bike, and run disciplines.
Setting a personal milestone, John aimed to complete a marathon before turning 30. He chose the iconic New York City Marathon, running as part of Team Allied Services. Despite a setback with COVID-19 disrupting his training, he raised $4,500 for Ryan’s Run and crossed the finish line in 4 hours and 44 minutes.
Today, as John prepares for another NYC Marathon and dreams of organizing a 4.44-mile race in Forty Fort, his commitment to self-improvement and community involvement is clear. His training days are filled with camaraderie and support from local groups like the Catholic Youth Center swim team, Planet Fitness, and the Anthracite Fitness Factory.
John's story is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to redefine oneself. From the bowling lanes to marathon routes and triathlon courses, his journey underscores that the first step toward transformation is simply the willingness to try.
As the Back Mountain Triathlon approaches, John focuses on honing his transitions, knowing that every second counts. His favorite part of the race? The local spirit and camaraderie, where familiar faces cheer each other on, making every step, pedal, and stroke feel like a shared triumph.
In the world of triathlon, as in life, it's not just about the finish line—it's about the community we build and the personal barriers we break along the way. John Quattrocchi's story is a vibrant narrative of growth, community, and the unexpected paths that lead us to discover our best selves. So, whether you're a seasoned athlete or a sideline supporter, remember that every race, every challenge, and every new beginning is an opportunity to inspire and be inspired.
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