On Friday, Sept. 25,  local legend and budding triathlete, Brian J. Boyle was honored by the American Red Cross as the organization’s Spokesperson of the Year. Boyle has been working with various chapters across the country for the past two years as a volunteer, a testimonial speaker.

For those not aware of Boyle’s saga, the 22 year old is no stranger to the news media. The young athlete was in a car accident that almost took his life. He died eight times on the operating table and was told he may never walk again. Boyle, a talented collegiate swimmer for St. Mary’s College of Maryland, recovered despite the odds and went on to challenge himself by participating in the 2007 Ford Ironman World Championship in Hawaii.

When asked about the Red Cross honor, Boyle stated, “I wear their logo on the race uniform that I wear in my triathlon and running events.  And, just last week I joined forces with the Southern Maryland chapter of the American Red Cross, which is a true honor to be a part of especially in my hometown.”