(CNN) -- A little more than two months ago, I stood on a California beach, tears streaming down my cheeks as I watched members of the 2012 CNN Fit Nation team cross the finish line of the Nautica Malibu Triathlon. A year before they had never worn a pair of running shoes, let alone a triathlon suit. For many of them completing a triathlon was utterly inconceivable, akin to asking them to walk on the moon. But what a difference a year made. At the Nautica Malibu Triathlon, I saw the Lucky Seven athletes conquer their fears and achieve more than they could have ever imagined. Their courage, strength, happiness, elation and pride were a beacon that shone for all to see, and that light continues to inspire everyone who shared in their amazing journey.
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Apply to join the 2013 CNN Fit Nation Triathlon Challenge on iReport.com
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The 2012 team crossed finish line with courage, strength, Ironman World champ says
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The only limits are those that exist in the mind, she says
Four years ago I was asked whether I would ever do an @placeholder.