Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 4422 FOCUS - FEBRUARY 2017 “Let’s just say that there was a great deal of compromise that we had to develop in order to make it work,” Syd com- mented by way of explanation. But make it work they have! Almost seven years later, the two have competed in 15 Ironman and half-Ironman events all over North America, an incredible feat not to mention a sight to behold. Whatever you do though, don’t call them an inspiration. “It can feel patronizing when people refer to it like that,” explains Syd. “It’s almost like a pat on the head.” It’s clear that both he and Ryan want to be held to the same standard as other athletes. “It kind of lowers the standard,” he explains, “when people say stuff like, ‘Wow, you’re out there doing something. That’s great.’ I tell the kids, don’t go out there inspiring people because you’re doing, inspire people because you’re achieving.” Most incredible though, is the relationship that the two men have developed with one another. Syd’s kids refer to Ryan as “Uncle Ryan” and for good reason: the two are like brothers. So much so that Syd has shelved any thoughts of competing as a solo athlete. “This is what triathlon racing is for me now.” By Laura Francis, Special to Focus on Scugog Panama City Beach. Running leg of Ironman Florida. Syd and Ryan (continued from page 19) “Scugog’s locally owned and operated General Insurance Broker with over 130 years of Broker experience.” FARM • HOME • AUTOMOBILE • COMMERCIAL INSURANCE BROKERS LIMITED We live Where you live. 193 Queen Street, Port Perry I 905-985-7306 I 1-800-387-5642 I www.emmersoninsurance.com SINCE 1917 180 Mary Street, Port Perry • 905-985-0910 COMPLETE BATHROOM RENOVATIONS WE SERVICE WHAT WE SELL – Family owned and operated – LOVE Your Bathroom BOOKS GALORE & MORE 175 Perry St., Port Perry FOCUS ON SCUGOG 188 Mary St., Port Perry BY J. PETER HVIDSTEN THE EIGHTIES 1980 1989 BY J. PETER HVIDSTEN 1989 BY J. PETER HVIDSTEN NOW ON SALE