Every now and then, I receive a small pamphlet in the mail from Team in Training. I look at it and think, “I should really sign up for one of these events.” Then of course, life gets in the way, and I create excuses for not doing it.

If you have never heard about it, Team in Training (TNT) is a non-profit organization that helps train individuals for endurance sports such as marathons, triathlons, and century rides (100 mile bike rides). In addition to providing training, coaches, and team support, they help the individual athlete fundraise for leukemia, lymphoma, and mylenoma research and treatment. You can participate in many events right here in L.A. Or, if you are interested in an event outside of your region, TNT helps fund your board and transportation at 60 events worldwide.

Angie Rittel is one woman who did not let life get in her way. This Santa Monica resident will be competing in the Malibu Triathlon on September 14, 2008. You can read more about Angie and her commitment to this cause on her TNT web page here.

Want to get involved? This Sunday August 3, the people at Power Pilates in Santa Monica are helping Angie to meet her fundraising goal. From 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., instructor Kristen Mathews will be hosting an all-levels Pilates class at the Palisades Park. There is a $20 minimum donation to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to attend (donation is made through TNT). After the one-hour class, there will be brunch, and everyone who attends will be entered to win three private Pilates classes (a $240 value). Please aim to arrive a few minutes before the start of class and look for the purple balloons. If you are interested in attending please RSVP to arittel@gmail.com, or call (804) 370-6950. Find directions and parking information at our Events Calendar.

Good luck Angie!