Well, I nominated two worthy people for Style’s Top 40 under 40 this year. I was really hoping that they both would get in. And, well, one of them did. John Sarvay, who runs the fabulous and often linked to Buttermilk & Molasses made it in just by a hair. At 39, I guess this is the last year he was eligible for that honor. Anyway, John has been a great mentor for me, we met back in the early 90’s when he was my editor at the Commonwealth Times, VCU’s newspaper. Then, I wrote for him at Caffeine Magazine, his alternative publication. Actually, he won’t tell you this, but he’s the reason I started writing again. After quiting Style Weekly and its sister publications back in 1997, I wasn’t sure I’d ever want to write again. Then, back in April of last year, I found Buttermilk & Molasses and found myself so inspired that I decided to start my own blog, like everyone in the world and their brother. And you know what, I all of a sudden started enjoying writing again.
So, along with congratulations, I’d also like to say thank you to John Sarvay.

And, since my other nominee, didn’t make it to the Top 40 — at least not this year, I’d like to tell you a little bit about her. Grandison Burnside is the coach, founder and owner of TRIgirl Training, a triathlon training team for women. TRIgirl has over 90 members of all different abilities — from former non-exercisers just starting to learn how to swim or bike to women who are training for their first Ironman distance race ( 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, 26.2 mile run), and I am lucky enough to get to be a biking team leader for her. She is the inspiration that lights the fire for many of us to try something we never thought we could do — race in a triathlon.
Grandison is a multiple Ironman finisher and is scheduled to do her next Ironman, Ironman Florida, on November 3rd, just 4 months after giving birth to her third child. Her passion is contagious. She has inspired so many women to adopt a healthier lifestyle and to challenge their comfort zone. Each day, she builds not only strength in her team but also courage, self esteem and overall fitness.
Richmond is so lucky to have her. Many cities our size and even larger have nothing comparable in terms of triathlon training or overall fitness programs dedicated to women. And, maybe next year, Style will reconsider and name her a Top 40 Under 40. In the meantime, if you see her or any of her 9 teamates attempting their first Ironman on November 3rd, wish them luck.