Renee Keane, 27, who serves as assistant director of building projects for the Los Gatos­Saratoga Joint Union High School District, has 10 hard months of training ahead of her. She plans to participate in the Ironman Canada in Penticton, B.C., on Aug. 29, 2004. The course consists of a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride and 26.2-mile run in less than 17 hours.

"My goal is just to finish in that 17 hours," Keane said. "I also want to be successful in either meeting or exceeding my fundraising goals."

Keane is not just participating in the event for physical or health benefits, she's also giving back to the community. Keane has formed an aggressive campaign to raise $7,500 to benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, which helps to fight blood-related diseases. Keane has pledged to raise $1,000 by mid-December, as part of the South Bay's team of the nationwide Team in Training program. There are 25 members from the South Bay team who plan to complete the Ironman, while raising funds to benefit cancer research and medical costs of cancer patients.

Keane said Team in Training doesn't just make sure the money goes toward the cause, but has connected her to the cause through volunteer opportunities and community service. But Keane already has a special connection to the cause because her father, Donald Plumlee, died from leukemia in 2001.

"I've been touched personally by the disease," she said. "I've seen the destruction it can have on a family, and I don't want anyone else to be impacted by that."

Keane has the ambition and motivation to complete the Ironman, with seven marathons already under her belt. Her husband, Scott Keane, serves as her personal trainer and support base.

Keane is seeking financial donations from the community to meet her goal. To donate online, visit http://www.teamintraining.org/personalpages/page.adp?section_id=156394 or send checks made payable to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society to 2042 Crist Drive, Los Altos, CA 94024.