EPIC: One man on a mission to raise funds for high school students' tuition



MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Sports have been a lifelong passion for Cole Braun. After an injury forced him to stop playing basketball, he took up running.

"Did my first marathon in 2001 and then got involved in multi-sport and triathlons after that and did my first Ironman in 2007," said Braun.

Braun began competing in race after race. He even formed the group "Racers Against Childhood Cancer" and donated funds he raised to childhood cancer research.

But now, Braun has a new cause. As CEO of Lutheran High School Association of Greater Milwaukee, he's racing to raise money for students' tuition.

"It's just challenging that's a lot of money and yet we feel the education and what we can provide for the students at our three high schools is worth it but we need to give them help," said Braun.

To raise the funds, Braun is participating in a Double Anvil. Imagine it being the distance of an Ironman, and then doubling it!

"It's a 4.8 mile swim, 224 mile bike, and 52.4 mile run all to be completed in 36 hours," said Braun.

Three students have been awarded the opportunity to travel with Braun as his support crew. They'll be leaving next week for the race near Fredericksburg, Virginia.

"I think it shows a strong character and that he's willing to do stuff for the students and make a presence around the country and not just in the Milwaukee area," said Milwaukee Lutheran High School senior Amelia Heup.

But this is much more than a fundraising effort, Braun is leading by example and teaching his students a life-long lesson.

"I think it will be a good way to show students and the faculty that we can really can do more, even if we fail. Even if I don't make it to the finish line if I've given everything I can I know it's going to be successful," said Braun.

Braun's  goal is to raise $281,000. If you are interested in donating or learning more about his cause, CLICK HERE.