317 AS pilot sees triathlon as lifestyle, path to motivate others Published June 30, 2014 By Staff Sgt. Bobby Pilch 315th Airlift Wing Public Affairs JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. -- Overcoming mental challenges, eating healthy and pushing the human body to its limit on an annual basis may seem like common practice for an Olympic athlete but for one Air Force Reserve pilot, it is a life-long mission. Capt. Jamie Turner, a C-17 Globemaster III pilot with the 317th Airlift Squadron here, competed in her second Armed Forces Triathlon at Naval Base Ventura County (NBVC) Point Mugu, California May 31. Turner placed second for the Air Force women's team, which helped them achieve first place overall among the other services. "It was such a great feeling knowing that I gave it all I had, especially in this race which made the difference between the women's first and second place finish," explained Turner. Turner was one of five women selected to represent the Air Force at this year's competition. "I am very proud to represent the Air Force at this championship," said Turner. "I worked very hard to finally be selected to compete at this race and looked forward to spending time with and learning from our Nation's most talented athletes at this event." Competing and training at this level may seem routine for someone like Turner. However, her commitments as a commercial pilot, Air Force pilot and to her social life prevent any such order. "My lack of a predicative schedule with two jobs, in two different states make it impossible to follow a set plan," said Turner while describing her method of self- coaching. "Each morning or evening when I wake, I listen to my body and create a work, training, social and rest plan. The days when I am home, I ride my bike, swim and hang out with my friends as much as possible." Turner has participated in approximately 30 triathlons over the past six years with the hope of motivating others to take on a healthy and fit lifestyle. "One of my goals is to share and inspire others with my passion for triathlons and outdoor fitness," said Turner. "Not everyone will fall in love with triathlons but everyone should have a passion and/or goal involving life-long fitness. I really enjoy motivating people and helping them realize they have the ability to accomplish almost anything." What does the future hold for Turner? "Triathlons and other events I compete in are a way of life for me," said Turner. "Ultimately it is more about leading a healthy lifestyle than the competition or race. With life changes, I may not always want to devote as much time as I do in triathlon training but I strive to always lead an active lifestyle."