The Nonantum Resort has two unsung heroes among its staff. Owner and operator Jean Ginn Marvin and General Manager Tina Hewett-Gordon were among those taking on the Tri for a Cure last weekend.

The race, which raises money for cancer research, is close to home for both women. Hewett-Gordon competes for her sister, who passed away from cancer a few years ago.

“It became a very personal mission for me to raise money, to help do my part to fight against cancer,” Hewett-Gordon told the Post.

Hewett-Gordon is constantly inspired by her sister, who was able to compete in a relay with her one year while in remission.

Every year after that, her sister’s health got progressively worse, but she continued to compete until the day she sadly passed away.

“It’s an incredible event and an incredible day to watch so many women who participate,” Hewett-Gordon said.

When she feels like she can’t do the race, she said she remembers the strength of the women who have gone through cancer and chemotherapy.

This gives Hewett-Gordon the strength to continue racing, she said.

“It’s just a swim compared to what they’ve gone through,” Hewett-Gordon said.

Ginn Marvin lost a sibling to cancer, too. Her brother passed away from cancer, and she participates in Tri for a Cure in his memory.

As one of the only participants who has competed in all 17 races, Ginn Marvin has been a dedicated competitor and organizer since the race’s conception.

“We had a much smaller thing in mind,” she said. “We had no idea how big and crazy it would get. It’s been a thrill to watch it unfold and grow.”

According to the Tri for a Cure website, the organization hosts over 1,300 women for the race each year, and has raised over $22 million for cancer research.

It’s an opportunity to give back, Ginn Marvin said.

With the race taking place at Southern Maine Community College in South Portland, the bike ride is scenic and the swim is idyllic.

The energy during the race is contagious, Ginn Marvin said. It’s not all about the competition – it’s about the camaraderie and the common goal of raising money for cancer research.

“It’s an unusual experience in that women are there to help each other,” Ginn Marvin said. “If you see someone who’s fallen off of their bike or if you see someone with a leg cramp, you stop to help them.”

For Hewett-Gordon, the day is always overwhelming and emotional in a good way.

“I’m amazed by it,” she said. “The sheer amount of people cheering you on with signs is overwhelming.”

The Nonantum women have both competed for many years, but last weekend’s race might have been their last.

Hewett-Gordon is undecided on her future at Tri for a Cure, but Ginn Marvin is almost sure she will retire.

Her good friend, one of the founders of the race, retired this year, and Ginn Marvin believes she will do the same.

“I’ve done 17 years in a row,” she said. “It’s been a lot of fun.”