PETA VP Takes on Ironman Competition

70.3 miles and still smiling!
For many of us, 70.3 miles is a long drive in a car—but imagine swimming, biking, and running those miles. It takes a dedicated, skilled, and driven athlete to take on the challenge of competing in a triathlon. But for PETA Senior Vice President Lisa Lange, this is one feat she can cross off her bucket list.
On July 17, Lisa completed the Vineman Ironman 70.3, which consisted of swimming 1.2 miles, biking a whopping 56 miles, and then running an impressive 13.1 miles. Of the 613 women who finished the race, Lisa ranked 141st with a time of 5:48—which is quite impressive, especially for a first-timer!
As you can imagine, life can get pretty hectic when you are the senior vice president of the largest animal rights organization in the world. But Lisa didn’t let 14-hour workdays keep her from training, and thanks to her vegan diet, she had plenty of energy to do both.
Having just started training last fall, Lisa says that being vegan gave her a leg up while preparing to compete in the Vineman. She quickly made great strides in strength and endurance because her diet fuels her body more efficiently than one laced with meat, eggs, and dairy products. Avoiding animal-derived products also helps to repair muscles quickly after grueling workouts—she was out running again just two days after the competition!
Lisa is living proof that vegans are strong—and get plenty of protein. Her celebratory meal of choice once the race was over was a double veggie burger, fresh fruit, and mango-vanilla soy ice cream with vegan chocolate-chip cookies. So who inspired this ultra-fit vegan to participate in a grueling triathlon? Her PETA rescued mutt Sophie, who always sleeps in while “mom” is training, and her race “consultant”—PETA supporter and fellow vegan Ultraman Rich Roll.
Have you ever dispelled a myth about being vegetarian or vegan? I’d love to hear about it! Share your story in the comments section below.


























