Tony Handler is an eight-time cancer survivor who has battled six different types of cancer and endured 14 surgeries and monthly chemo injections for 11 years.

Rather than curling up and waiting to die, he started running. And running. He started running harder and farther, and Tony, who is in his 70s, has completed 255 triathlons.

Tony said his goal is to hit 300 triathlons … and beyond.

After being told 29 years ago that he had two years to live, Tony says he has one important message — don’t ever give up. He says he’s living proof that you CAN get through this stuff.

Through his many cancer battles, Tony says he’s found that it doesn’t do any good to ask “why me?” You just have to keep going with your life.

He’s and his family have even found a way to laugh through the serious times, including joking about his “cancer of the week.”

Tony explains why he only has one competitor when he competes in triathlons — Mr. Cancer. He says every time he crosses a finish line, he’s beat him one more time.

Listen to this interview and find out what it feels like to cross the finish line, especially when he’s the oldest competitor in a race.

Then, click here to watch Tony in action. Growing Bolder was there for one of the Tony’s triathlons and we were so inspired by him that we awarded him the first-ever Growing Bolder Inspiration Award.