I am new to the triathlon world. I competed at McKendree University as a cross country and track athlete from 2015-2019, went on to run a few marathon after graduation and decided to get into triathlon last year after being persuaded by some extended family members. I found tri club after googling “what to do to start in triathlon.” First step… Join a local tri club. I bought a bike in the spring and decide to join in on a tri club group ride shortly after. In the summer, I went on to do a sprint and olympic distance triathlon and immediately caught the tri bug. In my free time I love to travel. The folks that frequent the summer group rides know that I am always on a new adventure. I have lived in STL for 2 and a half years and I love running on the Arch grounds and Forest Park, but attempt my longer runs on the Edwardsville trails. I look forward to being more involved with the tri club by volunteering and participating more in club challenges.
| When/Where was your first triathlon? | |
| I competed in my first triathlon in the summer of 2023. It was a sprint tri in my hometown of Noblesville, Indiana. I ended up placing 2nd in my age group! | |
| What is your favorite and least favorite gel flavor? | |
| My favorite gel is the Ucan strawberry banana, my least favorite is anything chocolate flavored or unflavored like the Maurten gels. | |
| What is your favorite race? | |
| My favorite race is the Indianapolis Mini Marathon. It is a half marathon where the course is filled with spectators and performers which makes for a fast race. You even get to do a lap around Indianapolis Motor Speedway! | |
| What is the most challenging moment you’ve had during a race? | |
| I think with every race I have ever competed in, every single time without fail I think of ways to give up. I don’t know why. I have never just dropped out of a race! It just gets so hard at the end, but I am always so proud of myself for pushing through and giving it my all when I just want to step off! | |
| What is your favorite place in or around St. Louis to train? | |
| I love running in Forest Park. I love the challenge of all the hills! | |
| What is your favorite thing about triathlon? | |
| I think how there is multiple disciplines you can work on. You can break your time up into different sports, unlike with running there is only one thing you can do to get better! | |
| Tip for new (or veteran) triathletes? | |
| My advice is to HAVE FUN. I am no pro at triathlon by any mean, but with my background in running, having fun was my secret to success and longevity in the sport. | |
| Add your own fun question and answer! | |
| What’s your favorite part about competing in a race?
My favorite part about racing is the post race beers at the end! |
