David Martin, Ph.D., ’20, a program manager and senior scientist at SCSU’s Connecticut Health, Athletic, and Mental Performance (CHAMP) Center, has achieved an incredible milestone by winning the 2024 USAT National Championship for Long Course Triathlon in the 35-39 age group.
This victory is even more remarkable because Martin began his training journey just three months prior, following nearly a year of unstructured, low-volume workouts. Balancing life’s demands — finishing his Ph.D., defending his dissertation, graduating, getting married, buying a home, moving, and starting two new jobs — Martin overcame burnout and fatigue with the support of a strong training community.
“Winning the national championship was more than just a victory; it was a testament to my resilience over the last 10 years to never give up even in the face of adversity,” Martin said. “This win isn’t just for me—it’s for my family, my friends, and my community, because they’ve helped mold me into the person I am today and given me the tools to pursue my dreams at this level.”
Martin’s Southern roots run deep, and he credits much of his success to the connections and experiences he gained during his time on campus. Collaborating with esteemed faculty like Dr. William Lunn and Dr. Robert Axtell — and even training alongside them in triathlon and swimming — he discovered an environment that nurtured both academic and athletic growth.
“The educational experience at Southern was unparalleled,” Martin said. “The care, dedication, and support I received shaped not only my career but also my approach to helping others. Joining CHAMP felt like a natural continuation of that supportive and collaborative spirit.”
This commitment to helping others was evident in 2020, when Martin used his athletic talents to raise nearly $4,000 for the Thomas Merton Center’s food kitchen through a grueling 48-hour charity run.
Beyond the championship win, Martin’s sights are set on new goals, including competing in the Olympic distance national championships, qualifying for an Ironman pro card, and breaking nine hours in an Ironman.
