We Can Do Hard Things: Racing to Support Our Veterans and Canine Heroes

“If the challenges faced in the mortgage industry have taught us anything, we can do hard things.” — Kyle Hiestand & Chad Crile

For mortgage professionals Kyle Hiestand and Chad Crile, 2024 is all about embracing hard things — not just professionally, but personally — to make a lasting impact. This year, they’re turning that mindset into action, taking on new physical challenges while raising awareness and support for the American Warrior Initiative (AWI) and its mission to serve our nation’s veterans.

The journey started at their year-end Mindset Reset event, where Bill Murphy shared his insights on mental toughness, goal setting, and the power of pushing past comfort zones. Inspired by that message, Chad made a bold commitment: he would run his first half marathon in April — proving that belief is indeed louder than doubt.

In true team spirit, Chad invited Kyle and others to join him in the challenge. Fueled by the momentum of Bill’s message, they jumped in — ready to test themselves and support a cause bigger than any finish line.

That commitment led them to Leon’s Heroes Triathlon, a 40-year tradition held every June in Hammond, Indiana, just outside Chicago. Kyle introduced the group to this incredible event — a race created to honor veterans and service members by celebrating amateur athletes, para-triathletes, and military competitors side by side.

Leon’s is more than a race — it’s a moving tribute. The event features unique divisions like a canine-specific triathlon course, where service dogs and their handlers compete, showcasing the incredible bond between veterans and their canine heroes. Organizations like Dare2Tri and injured military camps also participate, making it a powerful display of patriotism, resilience, and unity.

This June, Chad and Kyle will compete in Leon’s Triathlon — taking on another “hard thing” — while raising funds and awareness for AWI. Alongside their local Crile Crew and industry partners, they’ll not only race but also volunteer at the event, fully immersing themselves in the mission to honor our nation’s heroes.

The connection between Leon’s and AWI runs deep. In 2021, Leon’s introduced an Obstacle Course Challenge at the Dunes National Lakeshore — a race held every September in remembrance of 9/11 and in honor of the sacrifices made during conflicts like D-Day, Vietnam, and the Middle East. Service dogs and their handlers once again compete, reinforcing the incredible impact these canine heroes have on veterans’ lives.

Kyle and Chad’s goal is clear: raise funds to provide a service dog for a deserving veteran — giving a hero their very own canine hero.

They know they can’t do it all — but they also know that everyone can do one thing. They hope to inspire others to follow their journey, support their mission, and help honor the brave men and women who have sacrificed so much for our country.

Learn More About Leon’s Heroes and Join the Cause:

👉 About America’s Race – Leon’s Triathlon

👉 Canine Heroes – Leon’s Triathlon

👉 Watch the 2024 Race Highlights

Together, we can do hard things — and together, we can continue to honor our heroes.