Craig Dietz was born on April 13, 1974 and grew up in the rural town of St. Marys, Pennsylvania. Despite being born without limbs, Craig was a very active kid—bowling in a league, hunting, fishing, playing percussion in the school band, and was a member of the High School honor society.

Craig graduated from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh in 1996, with a B.A. in political science.  At Duquesne, he was involved with the Campus Ministry and a member of the Delta Chi Fraternity.  He graduated from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law in 1999 and passed the bar exam on his first attempt, without any special accommodations.  Craig worked as an Assistant City Solicitor for the City of Harrisburg until 2006 when he took the same position with the City of Pittsburgh.

In addition to hunting, fishing, skiing, bowling and playing volleyball, Craig always had a passion for swimming. But, it wasn't until 2008 that he decided to start training for long distance open water swimming and completed the 1500 meter swim in the Pittsburgh Triathlon in 40:20.  That one race was all it took for Craig to become hooked on the competition of triathlon and open water swimming.

Craig returned to compete in the Pittsburgh Triathlon in 2009 and 2010, finishing the swim in 30:14 in 2010, faster than 140 able-bodied competitors.  Craig has also expanded his training to compete in multiple Half Iron Man Relays (1.2 mile swim) and 2-mile swim competitions.  In 2011, Craig competed in his first Great Chesapeake Bay Swim, which is a 4.4 mile swim across the span of the Chesapeak Bay Bridge.

Craig's parents, two sisters and brother have always been extremely supportive of his activities throughout his life.  His family was instrumental in getting him driving lessons and purchasing a van specially equipped for him to drive.  Craig has lived independently since graduating from high school, and currently resides with his wife in Harrisburg, PA.

Craig's story has been featured on ESPN'S telivision show E:60, as well as ESPN The Magazine and several local print and television news media outlets.  Invite Craig to challenge and inspire your community, school or workplace today.