DARE TO DREAM SCARY FAST: The Road to Kona

By Wade Wilson

Inspirational Memoir, Extreme Sports

Publisher: Dare to Dream Publishing

Publication Date: February 25, 2025

Synopsis

Discover the power of perseverance and the extraordinary potential within yourself in Dare to Dream: The Road to Kona.

As an unlikely athlete born with pigeon-toes, Wade Wilson had a dream to become an elite athlete. With unwavering support from his wife and kids, he sets off to discover the world of triathlons at the age of 39. Over the next six years, Wade navigates the hurdles of any working father, parsing out his workouts in between job duties and family commitments. When faced with setbacks, he perseveres with a steadfast tenacity to succeed. He finally reached his goal to compete at the IRONMAN® Triathlon World Championship race in Kona, Hawaii, when he was 46.

With candid insights and inspiring reflections, Wilson reveals that greatness doesn’t require extraordinary talent—just unwavering desire, a solid plan, and relentless willpower. From navigating setbacks to overcoming self-doubt, Wade shows how resilience and the support of a strong team can propel anyone toward success.

Dare to Dream is a testament to the triumphs that come from persistence and courage. Start small, think big, and let your dreams soar.

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Review

This memoir was both educational and inspiring. While I am not a runner (and think those who do are crazy), I’ve come to admire Wade’s drive, determination, and dedication to his chosen sport. He continually shows us in his memoir that we are all capable of more; it is a matter of how badly we want that goal.

If you are interested in learning more about triathlons, this book provides a deep look into what it takes to train for these events. I have respect for athletes, and can’t imagine the challenges they endure in training and participating. A triathlon is an all-day event because it covers a total distance of 140 miles across the three events. And it is more than just being able to swim, cycle, or run. Wade shares his training schedule and getting his body to an aerobic level to be successful in these races.

I appreciated how hard Wade worked, but he also balanced his job and family. He was not willing to put the sport above his family, and would often get up early or train later in the day to ensure he had time to keep his family a priority. He even roped his youngest daughter into participating in a kids’ triathlon, but she only did that once! His family is very supportive, volunteering at the races to be there for him and the other participants.

There are several places throughout the book where his wife and daughters share some thoughts about their dad and his passion. I liked that addition because it gave us some insight into how it impacted the family.

Although this isn’t a book I would have typically picked up, I’m glad I read it. It is very inspiring. Wade didn’t let the naysayers bring him down; instead, he learned from both his successes and failures. This is what makes a true champion.

We give this book 4 paws up.

About the Author

Wade Wilson has a passion for pursuing his dreams and interests, some of which he has talents for and some not so much. He loves to challenge himself, and the bigger the dream, the better. His goal is that when God calls him home, he will have nothing left on his bucket list that he is healthy enough to pursue.

Wade’s other interests include studying and teaching God’s word, playing and performing classical guitar music, and traveling with his wife. He has provided motivational and inspirational speeches about his experiences in the sport of triathlon and of having the opportunity to compete on a world stage at the age of forty-six.

Authoring this book was a huge challenge and required all the skills and lessons previously learned about setting and pursuing lofty goals.

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