My name is Zach Josie. I’m a triathlete with a rare type of disproportionate dwarfism (skeletal dysplasia) called Ellis Van Creveld Syndrome (EVC.) My torso is nearly the size of an average height male while my legs and arms are extremely short in comparison. I also have bowed knees, unusual bone growth in my hands and feet and a few cosmetic issues.

I’ve competed in ten 70.3 triathlons, two full distances triathlons and many more sprint and Olympic distance events.

After riding a bike 4 sizes too big and wearing a wetsuit too small in some places and too big in others. I realized there were not many equipment options for someone with my condition or any condition like it. deBoer wetsuits was able to take my measurements and make a custom wetsuit that allowed me to swim in the open water pain free. In 2020, I began discussions with Kú cycles out of the Netherlands. They were able to build a bike to accommodate my extremely short legs and very long torso. With the added help of Ramus Seats for better saddle height adjustments and Appleman Bicycles for appropriately sized crank arms, I was able to get an incredible fit on a bike.

Many adaptive athletes require Equipment modifications like mine, which can be frustrating and expensive. I hope that the few companies I have found to help are just the beginning something bigger. I look forward to helping other athletes get the support, both in terms of programming and equipment that they need to be successful.