Flagstaff House’s Jack Stoutenberg Takes on Ironman for a Cause Close to Home
Cystic Fibrosis is a genetic disorder affecting the lungs, pancreas, and digestive system. Nearly 40,000 children and adults live with the progressive disorder in the United States. Just 75 years ago, a child with cystic fibrosis rarely lived long enough to attend elementary school. Today, many people living with the disorder achieve their dreams of attending college, pursuing careers, and in the case of Jack Stoutenberg, being the youngest person with cystic fibrosis to complete a full-distance Ironman.
Jack Stoutenberg races in the Boulder Ironman in June 2025.
“From the moment I took my first breath, my life was different,” the Boulder, Colorado, native reflects on his life full of twice-daily treatments, hospital stays, abundance of medications, and doctor visits.
His story came to light through Adam Monette, co-owner of the globally renowned Flagstaff House, a restaurant celebrated not only for its fine dining but for its close-knit, family-like culture. Jack is a dedicated member of the restaurant’s front-of-house team, and his determination, grace, and unwavering commitment extend far beyond the dining room.
Earlier this month, Jack completed the Boulder Half Ironman, a remarkable feat for any fit individual. But for Jack, who manages the everyday challenges of cystic fibrosis, the race was a powerful personal milestone.
“Thanks to the CF Foundation and CF research, I was given access to a potentially life-saving medication—a breakthrough that could give me more years, more memories, more life,” Jack explained. “For the first time, I started to believe in a future beyond what I had once accepted.”
That belief now fuels a bold goal: Becoming the youngest person with cystic fibrosis to complete a full distance Ironman triathlon consisting of a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride, and 26.2-mile run.
The athlete puts meaning to his miles, championing the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation throughout his training to raise awareness and funds for life changing medical research and advancements reshaping what is possible for people living with CF.
“This isn’t just about crossing a finish line. It’s about showing that no diagnosis, no statistic, no limitation should ever dictate what we’re capable of,” said the University of Oregon alum. “Because we are capable of more than we think.”
Jack Stoutenberg of Flagstaff House in Boulder, Colorado is the youngest person with cystic fibrosis to complete a half Ironman.
Jack’s journey is a testament to his strength, determination, and belief in the power of pushing boundaries, whether in sport, life, or service. His commitment to excellence is evident not only in his athletic pursuits, but in the care and hospitality he brings to Flagstaff House’s guests every service. The restaurant is honored to stand behind Jack in both his professional role and his personal mission to raise awareness and support for those living with cystic fibrosis.
Jack is racing at Ironman Wisconsin on September 7. To learn more about Jack’s journey or to support his fundraising efforts for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, visit https://fundraise.cff.org/RunYourWay/JackStouty.
Flagstaff House
1138 Flagstaff Rd. Boulder, CO 80302
https://www.instagram.com/flagstaffhouse_restaurant/
