Minda Dentler is a history-making athlete, author, and global speaker who inspires audiences to turn adversity into achievement. Paralyzed from the hips down due to polio and left in an Indian orphanage as a baby, she was adopted by an American family and raised in Spokane, Washington. After enduring years of surgeries, she gained mobility with leg braces and crutchesbut her real journey began when she discovered handcycling and triathlons.
In 2013, Minda became the first female wheelchair athlete to complete the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, using only her arms. That achievement, following a failed first attempt, earned her an ESPY nomination and global recognition. She’s now a sought-after keynote speaker whose story of perseverance, resilience, and inclusion inspires corporations, nonprofits, and schools worldwide.
Minda is also the author of The Girl Who Figured It Out, an uplifting children’s book based on her life. She blends her personal story with actionable takeaways, helping audiences redefine their limits and find strength in setbacks.
Minda Dentler is the first female wheelchair athlete to complete the Ironman World Championship
Minda’s life is one of inspiration, courage, and determination; she will have you on your feet ready to face your personal Ironman and set even higher goals. As an infant in India, Minda Dentler contracted polio, resulting in the paralysis of her legs, and was left in the care of an orphanage. Adopted by an American family, she moved to Spokane, Washington and underwent a series of surgeries on her hips, legs and back, which enabled her to walk with leg braces and crutches.
Undeterred by her disability, she became an independent, educated woman with an intention and drive to face and overcome the many obstacles she has encountered throughout her life.
Minda’s athletic journey began as a young adult when she discovered the sport of handcycling. Soon after, she threw herself into the sport of triathlon. In 2013, Minda became the first female wheelchair athlete to complete the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii. This accomplishment led to her nomination for an ESPN ESPY Award.
This athletic feat was not easy. As a wheelchair triathlete, Minda Dentler completes all three disciplines of a triathlon using only her arms. Her first attempt was a failure. Her second attempt was a success, thanks to her perseverance, determination, and unique personal philosophy, which enabled her to see beyond setbacks and disability.
Minda now inspires people around the world to push past their fears, set goals, and conquer their personal Ironman. Every goal, whether athletic or personal requires hard work and training. Let her share her story with you.
Minda Dentler is an athlete, speaker, polio survivor and advocate, author of The Girl Who Figured It Out, a mom, and a force to be reckoned with.
After spending 20 years in New York City, Minda is now based in Scottsdale, Arizona with her husband and daughter.
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Minda delivers inspirational keynotes focused on resilience, overcoming adversity, disability inclusion, women in sports, and goal-setting. Her story encourages audiences to break through personal and professional barriers.
Yes! Minda offers both in-person and virtual sessions, and she has experience speaking globally to audiences in corporate, nonprofit, and educational settings.
Minda doesn’t just speak about resilience—she lives it. As a polio survivor, adaptive athlete, and mother, her story embodies authenticity and actionable inspiration. She connects deeply with diverse audiences because she’s overcome seemingly insurmountable odds.
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