How long have you been doing triathlons?
This is my second season doing triathlons. I started in 2016 with the first timer's program that Justin Chester runs through Parker Rec.
What is your favorite distance?
I think that's evolving as I get more races under my belt, but I was pleasantly surprised by how much I loved racing the olympic distance at Boulder Peak. If the one next month goes that well, olympic will for sure be my favorite distance.... until I do the next distance...
What is your favorite race to date?
Without question Evergreen Triathlon. It was my second race, and the one where I really caught the tri bug. It was hard - the swim was cold, the bike is a legit climb, and I was gassed for the run. But it's absolutely gorgeous, and I loved every minute of it.
Why do you tri?
For my kids. I want them to see their mom take on impossible goals and work hard to achieve them, and I want them to learn that the journey and effort is more important than winning or being the absolute best. When I was a kid, I didn't try a lot of things because I thought I wouldn't be good at them.
What's your favorite - swim bike or run?
Swim - and it's shocking to say that because at the beginning of 2016, I didn't know how to swim freestyle.
What's your A race this year?
Chicago Triathlon (Olympic distance) - it's my first travel race, and I'm doing it with my training buddy Joyce St. Amand.
What do you do when you're not training?
I work full time as an administrative judge, and I spend a lot of time with my kids. I also love to ski and do crossfit (but I guess those are also training...).
How do you balance triathlon and family?
I'm very lucky that right now I work primarily from home on a flexible schedule, so I do a lot of my training during the day when my kids are in school. I'm also fortunate to be an ambassador for BringtheKidz which does day camps at a lot of local races. It's always a juggling act for sure.
What advice would you give to someone just starting the sport?
It's the same advice I still have to give myself - be patient with yourself. Sometimes gains in this sport come excruciatingly slowly, and it's easy to compare yourself to others and feel like you aren't getting anywhere. I've had to calm myself down many times, and just remember that the training itself is the success and speed is kind of immaterial (and will probably catch up eventually... I hope...).
What skill or experience would no one guess you have?
I had a black belt in TaeKwonDo when I was in my 20s (don't mess with Jess).
Speed Round:
Race Preference: Small and Local or Big and National?
Small and local (because that's all I've done).
Gu's, drink mix, or real food?
Shot blocks
Coffee, beer, or wine?
All of the above (separately, not mixed together)