“Journey to Blue Lake” Expands Its Inspirational Reach Beyond Endurance Sports

“Journey to Blue Lake” by Richard P. Benevento reaches readers as a story of personal recovery rather than a memoir reserved for athletes. In a recent interview discussion about the book, Benevento explained how an unexpected writing project grew from his effort to regain control after grief, divorce, and unhealthy habits had disrupted his life.

Benevento said he never set out with a lifelong ambition to become an author. His appreciation for writing took shape in the University of Iowa communication program, where frequent paper assignments showed him that putting ideas into words could be enjoyable. Years later, that comfort with writing returned when he began recording thoughts while his children attended tutoring sessions.

Those notes eventually formed the manuscript for “Journey to Blue Lake,” named for the site of his first triathlon. The book recounts how Benevento chose an intimidating athletic goal after seeing a co-worker take part in a triathlon. His largest obstacle was swimming. Pool training could trigger panic because his mind returned to the uncertainty of open water. Coaching, drills, repetition, and persistence helped him continue.

The memoir’s message has also found an audience outside endurance circles. Benevento held a successful signing during the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books 2026, appeared on the cover of Reading Glass Magazine, and saw “Journey to Blue Lake” appear in The New York Times Book Review. Those milestones have helped introduce his story to people looking for motivation in careers, relationships, new hobbies, and other difficult transitions, not only to runners, cyclists, or swimmers.

Book buyers can obtain “Journey to Blue Lake” via Amazon, as well as through additional major online retailers. The audio production is carried by Amazon, Audible, Google Play, Kobo, and Booktopia.

Purchase “Journey to Blue Lake” here:
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Amazon Audiobook
Audible
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Google Play
Booktopia

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