Brett Ciancanelli

Name: Brett Ciancanelli

Position: Co-founder and team leader

Spouse: Leigh

Children: MaKayla (9) and Isabella (4)

City: Raleigh, NC

Church: Wake Cross Roads Baptist Church in Raleigh, NC

Are you a member there? Yes

Tell us a little about how you became a Christian:
For many years I just attended Sunday school. I never went to Sunday worship. My wife would periodically ask me if I wanted to stay for worship and I would always say no. After many times of being asked, I decided “why not, let’s stay.”. Soon after that my wife asked me if I would like to take a bible study class called “The Parent Adventure”. Again, I thought “why not”. After the first night of the class on our way home, my wife and I talked about our faith. I realized at that moment in 12 years of being married, it was the first time we talked about our faith. Something needed to change and I met with Pastor Randy Mann the following Wednesday. It was that night, March 25, 2009 that I gave my life to Christ. Four days later on March 29 (our 12th wedding anniversary), my wife and I were baptized. Many times we simply go through the motions of life and that is exactly where I was at that time. The song “The Motions” by Matthew West is a testimony of my walk before Christ. Since inviting Christ into my life, He has changed me from the inside out. I am actively involved in many church activities, have led small groups related to intentional discipleship and in 2011 co-founded The Second Wind with my brother in Christ and good friend Jon Parks.

What type of athlete do you consider yourself to be? A triathlete

Tell us about the most exciting race you’ve competed in:
This would have to be the Goofy Challlenge at Walt Disney World in 2010. The Goofy Challenge is running 39.3 miles over a weekend. You run a half marathon on Saturday and then a full marathon on Sunday. Overall it was a challenge, but it was also exciting at the same time.

What do you like most about running?
The adrenaline rush when approaching the finish line of a race. You know the hard work you put in has paid off.

What is your favorite Bible verse?
Philippians 4:13: “I am able to do all things through Him who strengthens me.”