Is there one word that describes the joy you receive from your sport?
Alive!

How did you become interested in your sport?
During my athletic career I have experimented with many sports; swim team, track and cycling. Triathlon was an opportunity for me to combine many interests into one passion. I have also been intrigued by ultra distance racing and I always wondered just how far and fast I could go.

What other hobbies do you enjoy?
Riding my motorcycle, traveling, reading, and trying new things. Playing with my Bulldog Baxter!

What's your favorite meal to eat before and after a big race?
Pre race spaghetti and meatballs or lasagna.
Post race tuna sandwich with mayo and pretzels.

Do you have a favorite song, favorite music group, or is there music you like to train to, or is there a certain song that plays in your head when you race or ride?
Techno helps me move...

Do you have a personal motto?
If it is to be it's up to me.

The most memorable and meaningful race you've been in and why?
I would say Ironman World Championships because it is the "big dance" and an honor to be a part of. Also, my friends and family were there cheering me on.

Career Highs
My career as a triathlete has been one of steady progress. From my first triathlon to now I have learned how to train and fuel myself for better times and placement. Chattooga Dam Triathlon in Tennessee was my first triathlon under two hours and gave me the confidence to take on greater challenges within the sport. From that early race I learned the value of a pacing strategy and the importance of hydration. After that race I added more brick training and hill training to increase my strength to build for future races.

Gaining confidence from more Olympic distance events I moved into training for my first Ironman event. Training this past year for Ironman was challenging and rewarding. Completing my first Ironman was a career high and placing third in my age group was icing on the cake. Lake Placid was another great race for me where I placed 8th in my age group and had my fastest IM time. In 2005 I also participated in the IM Hawaii world championships and that was a thrilling and challenging experience. Lately, I have been recovering from the Ironman and setting goals in preparation for next season. I will be racing in IM Malaysia in February and then Lake Placid during the summer.

I would have to say that being a member of the Ultimate Triathlon Team has been very rewarding; SBR is my home away from home and my teammates are family!