NuGo Athlete of the Month: Todd Parker

Pro Ultra Marathon cyclist, Todd Parker started cycling after retiring as a Pro Triathlete at the end of 2002, when he was told to stop running. He started his triathlon career by racing amateur for the All-Army Triathlon Team for a few years, then turned pro at age 38. For 3 years he raced as a pro-earning numerous podium finishes and national-level sponsorships. Now at the age of 53, he has an impressive resume having raced competitively in lots of sports including swimming, cycling, running, and triathlon.

In the last decade, besides numerous charity endeavors, Todd occasionally races in Road Cycling and Ultra Marathon Cycling Races, with several overall wins and podium finishes from the regional to national level, and at times beating out others half his age. He recently raced in the Covered Bridges Ride in October and came in 1st Overall.

Todd uses NuGo bars during and after training for the adequate amount of carbs, but more importantly the higher protein content. He loves NuGo Stronger Peanut Cluster and Caramel Pretzel as well as NuGo Slim Crunchy Peanut Butter, Espresso, and Toasted Coconut. As an Elite Cyclist/Ultra Marathon Cyclist, Todd explained the importance of protein.

“Protein becomes more important as I ride 75, 100, 150 miles in training and racing. With all of the muscular fiber damage and glucose usage on these longer intense sessions, the protein helps the repair process late into and after the ride or race has ended. Plus, the protein and fats help spare some of the glycogen utilization – helping me perform more optimally late into the ride when others are running out of gas!”

Outside of cycling, Todd is a Professional Coach & Strength Coach for cyclists, triathletes, runners, and other endurance athletes. Some of his athletes have even competed at the World Championship level and Olympic Trials but he hopes one day to have them compete in the Olympics. Follow Todd’s journey on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and his website.