[Base Camp] Wrap Up in Lake Las Vegas

Investment or Just an Expense? 

Contributed by Larry Upton

That’s an important question smart startups often face when deciding how to allocate precious resources. Thoughtful investments can generate meaningful short- and long-term returns, while unnecessary expenses simply drain time and money. Much like the decisions we make as triathletes in training or racing, knowing when and how to “burn matches” as an organization often determines whether we succeed. or burn out.

Last week, I was fortunate to personally benefit from a high- ROI investment made by That Triathlon Life into their newly formed triathlon team… one which I believe will yield dividends for years to come.

Paula Findlay, Eric Lagerstrom, and the TTL squad invested time, money, and energy into staging an incredibly rewarding 2026 TTL BASE Camp at The Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa — a top-tier destination located just outside Las Vegas. Serving as “sherpa” to the 36 TTL team members, I spent 6 days riding, running, and swimming through stunning high-desert landscapes. Lake Mead, Red Rock Canyon, and Valley of Fire State Park provided unforgettable backdrops for road/gravel rides and trail runs, while both open-water and pool swims took place in Lake Las Vegas and nearby Boulder City.

The Westin itself proved to be an exceptional host: well-appointed rooms, fresh and healthy food options, and an impressive fitness facility. All in all, I can’t imagine a better location for an early-spring triathlon training camp.

As an endurance-sports industry veteran, I’ve worked with numerous top-tier triathlon teams over the past dozen years, serving as an apparel, nutrition, or equipment partner to both professionals and age-group athletes. I’ve attended events around the world and managed businesses alongside some of the best in the sport. Yet I can honestly say I’ve never experienced such a highly personal, well-organized, and effective bond-building environment as this TTL BASE Camp.

TTL Team Manager Jordan Bryden and his wife Dev (both seasoned event building professionals) brought together athletes from Brazil, Mexico, Canada, and across the U.S., spanning experience levels from first-timers to age-group champions. Everyone arrived with a shared goal: to become better athletes. Every detail was meticulously planned, and athlete safety was clearly a benchmark priority. At the heart of every new day was a passion for building community and creating unforgettable experiences.

Many of us initially discovered TTL through the podcast hosted by Paula, Eric, and Nick Goldston, so expectations were understandably high. I’m happy to say the camp far exceeded any expectations. We left with tired legs, full hearts, and a new circle of friends we’ll now train with, race alongside, and share our multisport lives.

I along with thirty-six other grateful athletes truly appreciate what you created for us. We look forward to crossing paths with you throughout the 2026 season.

Larry Upton is Co-Founder and CEO of bambū werx, a provider of eco-friendly endurance sports accessories.