Expert Chicago Triathlon, Swim, Bike & Run Coaching Team
Jim Levesque - Owner & Head Coach
Certification: USAT Level 2 Coach
Specialization: Long course triathlon, Ironman, bike and run training
About Jim:
A lifelong athlete, Jim's journey took him from high school track and soccer to becoming a USAT Level 2 Certified Triathlon Coach. With qualifications in the Ironman 70.3 World Championship and Boston Marathon under his belt, Jim's own competitive spirit fuels his dedication to coaching. Since becoming a coach in 2014 and founding Grit Endurance in 2020, he's been committed to transforming lives through endurance sports. From guiding newcomers to their first 5K to leading seasoned athletes to PRs at the Ironman distance, Jim revels in turning athletic dreams into achievements. His ultimate joy? Witnessing athletes cross the finish line, the pinnacle of their hard work and dedication.
Jason Luzinksi - Head Swim Coach & Triathlon Coach
Certification: USAT Level 1 Coach
Specialization: Swim technique and long course triathlon
About Jason:
Jason's journey in the water began at age 6, evolving from a competitive high school swimmer to a USAT Level 1 Certified Coach with a knack for fine-tuning swim techniques and enhancing triathlon performance. Not only has he tackled triathlons from sprints to full Ironmans, even earning the badge of a sub-hour Ironman swimmer, but Jason's true talent shines in coaching. He dedicates himself to transforming swimmers into confident athletes, focusing on technique as the foundation for success. Jason's ability to mentor and guide triathletes to surpass their goals and "feel the water" sets him apart. Under his guidance, you'll not just improve; you'll redefine your limits in swimming and triathlon.
Brian Vogelsinger - Triathlon, Swim, and Run Coach
Certification: USAT Level 1 Coach
Specialization: Long course triathlon, swim, bike and run training
About Brian:
Brian seamlessly transitioned from a competitive swimmer and runner to a triathlete, inspired by his wife's participation in the Chicago Triathlon. When she raced the Chicago Triathlon in 2007, he cheered her through the swim and ran most of the 10K with her and was instantly hooked! As a USAT Level 1 Coach, he brings his experience of competing in every distance from sprints to Ironman and multiple marathons, including USAT Nationals and World Championships qualifications. Brian's coaching philosophy emphasizes maximizing training effectiveness amidst life's demands while ensuring the journey remains enjoyable. Most of all, Brian wants to make sure his athletes have fun while smashing their triathlon and running goals!
Whitney Zweifel - Triathlon and Run Coach, Event Coordinator
Certification: USAT Level 1 Coach
Specialization: Marathon running and beginner triathlon training
About Whitney:
A self-declared book nerd and scholastic enthusiast, Whitney discovered running during grad school to alleviate academic stress. She quickly developed a deep love for the sport, leading her to run over a dozen marathons with ambitions to become a Six-Star Marathon finisher. Her newfound passion propelled her into the world of triathlons, conquering distances up to Iron Woman 70.3. Before joining Grit Endurance, WWhitney was a long-time pacer and site coordinator for the Chicago Area Runners Association, devoting her time to building a running community in Chicago and coaching participants to the finish line of the Chicago Marathon. Now a USAT Certified Coach, Whitney combines her tenacity, enthusiasm, and comprehensive experience to guide athletes in developing their endurance sports skills, emphasizing personal growth and a deepened love for the sport.
Chris Foley - Swim and Triathlon Coach
Certification: USAT Associate Coach
Specialization: Group and individual swim training
About Chris:
A Certified Associate Level Coach with USA Triathlon. Certified Level 1 Coach with US Masters Swim. 2x Ironman Finisher. Former yoga instructor. Meditation practitioner. Black belt in Karate. Former high school soccer player.
Inspired by the guidance and confidence instilled in him by remarkable coaches and teachers throughout his life, Chris is dedicated to paying it forward and empowering others to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. He firmly believes in always having a “beginner’s mindset,” no matter your skill level.
What sparked Chris’ love for triathlon racing? It’s tough to say, but in middle school he used to race his school bus home 4 miles after school. Outside of triathlon Chris likes to spend time with his wife Meghan, and their chocolate lab, Baker. He practices yoga and meditation. He’s an avid Minnesota sports fan, having been born and raised in Minnesota, and his college basketball team is Xavier University, his alma mater.
