At 81 years young, Sandy Pierce is proving that age is just a number. This year, Sandy achieved an incredible milestone at the Kandiyohi County Area Family YMCA as she joined the 100-mile swim club. With a passion for swimming that knows no bounds, Sandy has become a beacon of inspiration around the YMCA.
Sandy’s YMCA journey began in November 2002, right when the doors of the YMCA opened here in Willmar. She was already a dedicated swimmer, inspired by her daughters' swim lessons back in California in her late twenties. Watching her girls learn to swim sparked something inside her. She took up swimming herself and even swam Masters in California, completing a 1-mile swim in the Pacific Ocean. This lifelong commitment to fitness and swimming has helped Sandy reach incredible goals.
Sandy’s swim routine is nothing short of impressive. She dives into the pool at least five days a week, often swimming for an hour or more, logging a quarter mile or more each day. Her dedication adds up: since joining the YMCA, Sandy has completed an astounding 2,462 miles. But it’s not just about the numbers; it’s about what those laps represent—a commitment to a healthier mind, body and spirit.
In addition to being an avid swimmer, Sandy is a valued member of our community, having served on the YMCA’s “Hard Hat Committee” to support the organization’s mission and growth. Her YMCA family has watched her overcome unimaginable obstacles with courage and perseverance. In 2012, Sandy was in a severe car accident that resulted in 17 broken bones, including her neck. She spent four days in the ICU and underwent four months of intensive rehab. Yet, just six months after her accident, she was back in the pool, swimming laps. By August 2013, Sandy entered the Senior Games, winning a medal in the 50-yard freestyle.
Sandy’s swimming journey didn’t stop there. In 2008 and 2009, she was part of a relay team in the Green Lake Triathlon, joining forces with her niece and great-niece. She’s also competed in relay events with her fellow YMCA members under the team name “75+ers,” showcasing her competitive spirit and passion for the sport.
Beyond the pool, Sandy is a proud mother of two daughters, grandmother to six, and great-grandmother to six more. Her journey from California to Willmar has been filled with family, fitness, and community service, all woven together by her dedication to the YMCA.
Sandy's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the positive impact that physical activity can have on one's life. her achievements encourage us all to keep pushing, to keep moving, and to embrace the challenges that come our way.
Are you inspired to take that first step on your fitness journey? The YMCA is here for you, just as we've been for Sandy. Join us, and see all the great things you can achieve.