Deaf trans triathlete Kamden Romano on training, escaping Alcatraz & having coolest mom ever
completed their transition in 2018, and competed in their first triathlon the following year. “I fell in love with triathlons,” they said. “I knew it would be worth the wait to jump back into running after my transition, so once it was completed–top surgery, gender and name change–I jumped right into training and did my first solo in 2019.”Born deaf in a hearing family, Romano isn’t phased by obstacles.
They only further motivate them. Today, Romano has competed in 10 triathlons and two Ironmans, with another big challenge coming up.
On June 9, they’ll participate in the Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon, a grueling event that features a 1.5-mile swim around Alcatraz Island to the shore, an 18-mile bike ride and 8-mile run.
Romano is believed to be the first deaf trans person to finish an Ironman, and is set to make history at the Escape from Alcatraz as well. With the race days away, Queerty recently caught up with Romano to chat about their perseverance, athletic models and special relationship with their mom/coach.
