“Being shot three times motivated me to race Ironman”

Brandon Peacock from Ottawa, Canada was the innocent victim of a drive-by shooting in 2020 that almost cost him his life. Here, we share his incredible story.

Battling back to life, Peacock has used triathlon as a vehicle to improve his physical and mental wellbeing, and is on a mission to help other trauma survivors through his charity Hit the Ground Running. But to fully appreciate this thankfully happy ending, we need to first take you back to the start…

Shot three times but not down

“On June 29th, 2020 my life changed forever. While walking into my barbershop for a routine haircut, I was shot three times in a drive-by shooting. The night of the shooting I was given a 50/50 shot to make it through the night because of the blood loss. I was told even if I did make it, the odds were high they would need to amputate my leg.  

“My doctors told me I’d never walk or run properly again. A neurologist even said I’d never run a marathon—so I ran a half-marathon right after that appointment. Humans are capable of far more than we give ourselves credit for.

“After being shot, I leaned on my friends. They didn’t coddle me, they held me accountable and inspired me to grow. Surrounding yourself with people who genuinely want to see you thrive can change your life.

“Triathlon training constantly reminds me what I’m capable of and pushes me to keep striving for more. Training for three disciplines keeps things exciting, even if it’s not necessarily easier on my body. I’ve never been a strong swimmer, and until late November, I hadn’t learned to swim properly. Tackling something new and challenging is incredibly rewarding.

“Without big goals, I lack discipline. Ironman training forces me to improve not just in fitness but also in time management, which positively impacts my work, relationships, and overall life.

“I chose Ironman because it is coming to my hometown, Ottawa—the place where I was born, raised, and shot. After the shooting, I vowed to run a marathon despite nearly losing my right leg.

“I trained for my first two marathons on the same course Ironman will use. It’s where I rebuilt my confidence, made lifelong friends, and became the person I am today. 

“My goal is to raise $200,000 for trauma survivors, giving back to the community that shaped me. My best friend, a physiotherapist, is the reason I’m able to train for this Ironman today.

“He spent 3–5 hours a day with me, not just helping me heal, but making me stronger than ever. This effort is an homage to him and a way to ensure others have access to the same quality care.

“I believe that with the right resources and care, many individuals who end up on lifelong disability support could instead find their new 100%. I want to be part of that change.

“The triathlon community is incredibly supportive. I’ve had famous athletes, influencers, and world champions reach out with advice and encouragement. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind tribe where everyone wants to see each other succeed.

“Everyone has a story. Whether it’s overcoming trauma like me, or simply a drive to be extraordinary, it’s inspiring to be surrounded by people chasing something bigger than themselves.

“You can’t control what happens to you, but you can control how you respond. I couldn’t control whether I survived the night I was shot, but I could control my recovery.

“By focusing on rebuilding myself stronger and using my story for good, I not only healed but gave hope to my family and friends during a difficult time. Taking accountability for my healing allowed us all to move forward without being weighed down by bitterness or regret.”

Inspired by Brandon’s story? Follow him on Instagram and check out his charity Hit the Ground Running.