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"Freedom is indivisible; the chains on any one of my people were the chains on all of them, the chains on all my people were the chains on me." - Nelson Mandela
Persistence is an essential quality for peace. I have learned that lesson again and again in life, and never more so than in my pursuit of a deeply personal and transformative journey — one that challenges me both physically and emotionally. Through my training for, and eventual completion of, an Ironman Triathlon, I aim to raise $140,600 to support a cause that is close to my heart: bringing freedom, justice, and peace to the Middle East.
The goal is clear: to complete 140.6 miles in a full Ironman triathlon. The total distance of a full Ironman triathlon is 140.6 miles (226.3 km):
This fundraiser symbolizes my belief in seeing beyond the visible — toward a future where peace, justice, and liberation are not just ideals, but realities for the people of the Middle East and for all of us. One of the mottos of the IronMan is “Anything is possible!"
Throughout my training, I participated in several smaller races, Every stroke, pedal, and step bringing me closer not only to my personal finish line, but also to the vision of a better tomorrow for those who need it most.
My original goal was the completion of an Ironman on September 20,2025. That has been a dream deferred because of health challenges that I could not have anticipated. My original goal of the September 2025 Ironman in Cambridge, Maryland was cut short because I was passing out. I’ve been diagnosed with a chronic condition that takes what was already seemingly impossible and made it all the more challenging. But with medicine and other remedies, I am not giving up! In the winter of 2026, after consulting with doctors, I was able to resume my training, aiming initially to compete in the May 2026 Victoria half-Ironman. Again, health issues made that date impossible.
But persistence is an essential quality for peace! My goal continues! I will compete in a 70.3 (half) Ironman in Ohio on Sunday, July 19, 2026. I will compete in the IRONMAN Cambridge, Maryland on September 19, 2026.
This journey of persistence and perseverance has taught me that together, we can race toward a world where justice and peace are within reach. Your support will help me cross the finish line and, more importantly, empower those who are working tirelessly for a brighter future.
All funds raised will support the work of Churches for Middle East Peace, an organization I’ve had the privilege of leading for over 17 years. For over 40 years, we’ve been advocating, educating, and elevating voices in the Middle East, with the steadfast belief that peace is possible, and justice will prevail when we work together.
An end to the atrocities in Gaza - even in summer 2026 - seems impossible. As does this IronMan journey. But, I truly believe in God, all things are possible. This includes the belief that an end to the occupation and oppression of Palestinians is possible - just as 140.6 miles seems impossible. May God make it so!
As we all know, the situation in the Middle East — especially for those in Gaza — is more urgent than ever. Personally, I’ve faced significant health setbacks that make this ambition feel daunting. Yet, I remain hopeful that, together, we can bring lasting change and create a peaceful future.
Join me on this journey. Together, we can race for liberation and an end to injustice. Your contribution will not only help me complete this challenge, but also support the incredible work being done to promote peace and justice for Palestinians and all in a region that so desperately needs it.
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Rev. Dr. Mae Elise Cannon, executive director of Churches for Middle East Peace and triathlete
"Freedom is indivisible; the chains on any one of my people were the chains on all of them, the chains on all my people were the chains on me." - Nelson Mandela