Ambassadors & Athletes
Meet our ambassador team - the heart and soul of Topo Athletic. These athletes inspire and change the game of their sport every day by exemplifying their commitment to a gimmick-free approach to training while spreading their passion for natural movement to the communities they influence. Learn about their unique perspectives here and follow/contact them via their social media handles listed.
What are your top 3 career highlights?
2013 Leadville 100- crossing the finish line with my father 2014 Bryce Canyon 100- my first race as a professional athlete 2016 USATF-UT 50-Mile Trail Championships @ Pony Express Endurance Run- setting a CR at my first championship event 2018 University of Utah- Graduating with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy
Do you have any race day superstitions/rituals?
I stay away from superstitions. Race days are already so mentally draining. I don’t like the idea of adding an aspect to it that HAS to go perfectly otherwise it can be a huge distraction. It can be a set up for failure. And I really want to keep as much power and strength in my own hands as possible. In terms of rituals, I guess my most appropriate answer would be smiling through each aid station, being appreciative and thanking the volunteers and taking a few moments every mile to find something around me that I can truly appreciate. Running with a grateful heart always helps keep the mind frame positive.
How have Topos changed your running game?
Running, to me, breaks life down to its most raw and simplistic nature. I believe in keeping it close to natural so the body can do what it was designed to and move efficiently for long periods of time. Being an athlete and a physical therapist, I appreciate a company that wants to keep you moving as unadulterated as possible. There is nothing more important for me in trail running than to connect as purely with the land around me. As esoteric as it sounds, it's really just about being as free in those moments and miles as I can. And Topo provides my body with the protection I need without taking away from that connection and natural feel.
What is your favorite Topo model and why?
DO I HAVE TO CHOOSE?! To me, shoes are like tools; there’s always a specific one that matches the job. I use them all for different purposes. But the one’s that made me fall in love from the first step are the Magnifly 2 and the Runnventure. I love the Magnifly 2 for the comfort through long miles and road. But the Runnventure is just a gnarly trail shredder for any terrain I encounter and almost any distance! Two way tie???
How did your athletic career start?
After 10 years of very little exercise, I decided I needed to do something interesting in my life and started training to run a marathon in January 2004. As I became absorbed into the running community and realized I had some talent, a mentor of mine encouraged me to pursue triathlon. At age 28 I did my first local sprint distance triathlon, with a huge grin on my face thinking “I’m really doing it!” I nearly won that race, placing second. After that triathlon completely took over my life!
What are your top 3 career highlights?
2x Ironman 70.3 Champion 2x ITU Long Distance World Championship Bronze medalist 3rd Ironman Canada
Do you have any race day superstitions/rituals?
I always write out my race morning schedule down to the minute so that I make sure I get all my prep done and be warmed up and ready to go when the gun goes off!
How have Topos changed your running game?
Topos have allowed by feet to splay naturally in the shoe when running, yet hug my mid foot for a super comfortable feel. The minimal drop is great to encourage a natural mid foot strike and the cushioning is perfect for my foot for a bit of protection yet still enough feel for the ground.
What is your favorite Topo model and why?
Fli-Lyte 2 - Light, fast, versatile. Perfect drop!
Naeth is a 17-time Ironman 70.3 champion and has more than 35 Ironman 70.3 podium finishes under her belt. She has clocked in a sub-9-hour finish time on multiple occasions, including her impressive first-place finish at the 2015 Ironman North American Championships in a time of 8 hours, 55 minutes.
She hails from British Columbia, Canada, and has coached many athletes in all areas of triathlon. A physical therapist by trade, Naeth holds a master’s degree in physical therapy and bachelor’s degree in health science. Before becoming a professional triathlete in 2008, she worked as a pediatric and orthopedic physiotherapist.
In 2017, Naeth founded iracelikeagirl, an organization on a mission to bring together a community of women of all ages and abilities, using the sport of triathlon and other endurance sports as a platform to support, encourage and inspire one another.
How did your athletic career start?
I started running during my sophomore year of high school. Prior to that I played soccer for nine years. Strangely enough it was one of my soccer teammates who convinced me to try Indoor Track for the first time. I instantly fell in love with the sport and quit soccer the following year to run cross country. I have been running full-time ever since then.
What are your top 3 career highlights?
In college while at Cornell University I was a five-time DI All-American including two 4th place finishes in the 3000m steeplechase in 2013 and 2014. I’ve competed in eight USATF Championships, most notably taking 7th in the 2 Mile at the 2017 Indoor Track and Field Championships and 9th at 2018 Cross Country Championships. That 9th place finish also qualified me to compete at the 2018 NACAC Cross Country Championships, which was my first time ever representing Team USA in international competition.
Do you have any race day superstitions/rituals?
My laces are my only real race-day ritual. They are these three different colored shoelaces that can be seen sprouting from my ponytail whenever I race. I started wearing them at the Outdoor HEPS (Ivy League Track and Field Championships) my sophomore year of college. After having a great race, I decided to keep wearing them the rest of that season. After that, they sort of just became my thing. I haven’t run a single race without them since May 6, 2012.
How have Topos changed your running game?
My feet are pretty big (size 10!), and wide too, so finding shoes that fit me right had always been a struggle. I used to get these awful blisters on the outsides of my pinky toes because my shoes were always too narrow. For me, the wide toe box in Topo shoes has been a game changer. No more blisters. No more pain. Just happy feet!
What is your favorite Topo model and why?
Hands down the Ultrafly 2. The original Ultrafly was the first Topo shoe I ever wore back in early 2017. Prior to that I had worn the exact same model of shoe for almost eight years, but as soon as I put on that Ice/Red Ultrafly, I was converted. The new Ultrafly 2s are even better. They’ve got all the same great features of the original in addition to some new ones, like a stronger, more durable mesh upper. It’s such a versatile shoe that I can wear it for any type of run – easy, tempo, long – and know that I’m good to go.
How did Topo change your running game?
With the old shoes I was wearing, my toes were cramped and running in the shoes made it difficult for me to continue running. When I started wearing Topo, the first thing I noticed were the freedom my toes had, allowing me to run more. The transition from an 8mm drop to 5mm drop was a lot faster than expected and as soon as I got used to running in them, my feet feel so much better.
What are your top 3 career highlights?
My favorite would be making the Tennessee State Record at the Pistol Ultra 100 miler, then running 86 miles in a 12 hour race in Dahlonega, GA. I still have no idea how I did that. Finally, it would be the first time I finished a 100 mile race. It was at the Black Mountain Monster. It was definitely a career highlight and personal highlight. I didn't make any records, but I went out there to do something, and I finished it.
Do you have any race day superstitions/rituals?
Rituals? Well it's rather simple. As I've done all the planning the day before, I just don't think about the race at all and go through the morning prep without stress. I joke around and not care about the race and am extremely relaxed.... but 5-10 minutes before the race, I start getting focused and then right before the race starts, I pull everything together, have a good balance of the joker and a serious runner and go at it.
What is your favorite Topo model and why?
The Ultrafly 2 has been my favorite. The 5mm drop has been fantastic for me, coming from an 8mm drop. I had tried a zero drop and a 3mm drop but the difference was too much, but with Ultrafly 2's 5mm drop, I have been able to run pain free and my toes have been free... it's a light shoe and I love the bright colors. I've thoroughly enjoyed them.
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
"When your mind is telling you you’re done, you’re really only 40 percent done. -David Goggins"
Do you have any pre-race/competition rituals/superstitions?
Wake up and arrive early! And socks must match the color of my shoes.
What or who inspires you to push yourself to the next level?
Former Navy Seal and Ultra Runner, David Goggins. His capacities far exceed anything I can imagine but when I find myself in a difficult moment, I think of the determination of someone like him and find the strength to push through.
What are some of your other favorite hobbies when you are not training or competing?
I am a guitarist and I have a saying, "It's a good day when you can make music!" Additionally, I love photography and graphic design.
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
The task ahead of you is never greater than the strength within you.
Who/what inspires you to push yourself to the next level?
I am inspired by women athletes from around the world who truly believe that if they can dream it, they can achieve and they do the best that they can to make it happen. I am also strongly supported by my number one fan, my Dad.
What is your proudest athletic accomplishment?
"Willow Winter Solstice Marathon - 28 miles across frozen Alaska - 3rd Female I chose this one because i just came off of 4.5 weeks working in Costa Rica 5 days before this race. I had been working really hard there and I was only going to run the half marathon, but my instincts told me to sign up for the full and I felt really good - even after they told me the course was actually 28 miles :)
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
"Smile at the obstacle, for it is a bridge." MedusaDo you have any pre-race/competition rituals/superstitions?
Eating bacon... before, during or after is key!
What or who inspires you to push yourself to the next level?
My daughter is my "why". I want to be a role model for her and lead by example. We can do things that are hard, challenging and feel impossible. I push my self, set goals and work hard to demonstrate for her what it means to be strong, show tenacity and have fun.
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
Dig deep. Your body can do unbelievable things. But your mind must believe it first.
What is your proudest athletic moment?
My proudest athletic moment is crossing the finish line at the Arkansas Traveller this past October. It was my first 100 mile race. I'm still beaming with joy and gratitude!
What are some of your other favorite hobbies when you are not training or competing?
I love to go hiking with my three-year-old daughter, Sawyer. Right now our hikes are very short; 2 miles is her max! I also enjoy gardening, yoga and drinking craft beer with my husband.
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
Be comfortable with being uncomfortable.
Do you have any pre-race/competition rituals/superstitions?
Like Michael Phelps and other top athletes, I listen to music before hand to get me pumped. What do I do before that? I always go and checkout the race course beforehand, no matter what.
What is your proudest athletic moment?
Being invited to represent the USA in Canada at the ITU World Championships in 2017 as part of Team USA.
What is your go-to workout song?
Public Enemy vs. Benny Benassi: "Bring The Noise Remix"
What are some of your other favorite hobbies when you are not training or competing?
I have a large library and love to read. I enjoy audio books too when doing my century rides.
If you could race in costume, what or who would you dress up as?
Captain America. I love America.
What song energizes you through the toughest part of your workout?
10,000 reasons- good warm-up song that helps me to appreciate life & puts my mind in a peaceful place so I can zone in and be thankful for every moment I’m running or working out.
What is your go-to mantra for living an active life?
One foot in front of the other— I sometimes think this over & over in my head when doing an ultra. I just have to keep going, keep moving, keep pushing. Incredible what our bodies can do if we keep moving forward.
Do you have any pre-race/competition rituals or superstitions?
Wake up early enough to have coffee. I love coffee & I like drinking it in my stance socks I’m going to wear for the race. I like to feel cozy the morning of... before lacing up & heading out.
What or who inspires you to push yourself to the next level?
My wife Sarah for sure. There have been times when I am completely spent in a race and it would be easy to just give up. She's always so encouraging and positive! She has gotten me out of those dark places so many times over the years and many of my great races have come from her picking me up when I've been down.
What is your proudest athletic moment?
I think the longevity of my running career is my proudest achievement. My parents started taking me to their local running club's Sunday morning group run when I was about 7 or 8 years old. I fell in love with running, competition and enjoying it with others. I'm now 36 years old and cannot see myself ever not running. It truly will be a lifetime activity for me!
If you could race in costume, what or who would you dress up as?
Probably the Dude (aka: His Dudeness, Duder or El Duderino) from The Big Lebowski. I can just imagine a nice v-neck shirt with a sweater along with some baggie plaid shorts would be pretty comfortable to run in. Plus, if someone claims to be faster than me it'd be a perfect time for "Yeah, well, you know, that’s just, like, your opinion, man."
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
Shut up legs
What or who inspires you to push yourself to the next level?
My kids and family, I don't want to let them down and I want them to know that anything is possible
If you could race in costume, what or who would you dress up as?
The Punisher
What is your go-to workout song?
Pretty much anything by Five Finger Death Punch or 90s pop
What is your proudest athletic moment?
Completing the Boston Marathon when about 2 years prior I was told I'd never be a long distance runner again. And summiting Mt Washington on a whim, one of the tougher hikes in the Whites.
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough
Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do - John Wooden
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
Put on the full armor of God.
What inspires you to push yourself to the next level?
I am inspired by a desire to serve as an inspiration for older woman that they can do whatever they set their heart too. Everytime I hear from one of them that are following me and how excited they have become to try harder in their sport I get inspired to try harder in my sport to just help give them encouragement to keep going.
What are some of your other favorite hobbies when you are not training or competing?
I love the ocean. Walking on the beach, surfing, sailing, family time, rollerblading, hiking.
Who/what inspires you to push yourself to the next level?
My partner, Joe Uhan. Numerous injuries and set backs have caused a lot of frustration in my running over the last few years. Joe is a problem solver and is incredibly stubborn; he helps me to find solutions and remain positive, rather than succumb to the discouragement of defeat. There is always something you could be doing differently that will lead to different outcomes, it's just a matter of figuring out the problem. He is most inspirational for me in how he does this in his own running, and in how he instills the same problem-solving mentality while coaching our high school athletes.
What is your proudest athletic accomplishment?
I raced at the Penn Relays as a sophomore in college and ran a huge personal best in the 5k; 16:32. It was a perfect night under the lights and I executed well; it's also likely the race in which I was most mentally present and grateful for my performance. I ran faster later in my career, but unrealistic expectations led me to frustration, a negative outlook, and a lack of satisfaction despite solid performances.
What are some of your other favorite hobbies when you are not training or competing?
Coaching high school track/xc, gardening, cooking, working on converting our camper van, trail work, crewing/volunteering at races.
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
"“Because in the end, you won’t remember the time you spent working in the office or mowing your lawn. Climb that goddamn mountain.” ― Jack Kerouac"
What is your proudest athletic accomplishment?
Completing my first long distance overnight hiking trip. It was brutal. My group and I were hiking the West Coast Trail on Vancouver Island, a 50 mile mud-slog through a coastal rainforest. I was extremely unprepared, mentally and physically. My feet developed huge blisters on the first day, I was plagued by a bad case of plantar fasciitis, and I came down with a nasty head cold all within the week I was out on trail. It seemed impossible to keep moving when my body felt like it was falling apart. I thought I would never make it out alive, let alone ever go on another backpacking trip again! As soon as I saw the beachfront that marked the end of the hike, every bad memory of the trip rushed away and I was left with only the highest moments. I came away with a greater satisfaction for my body seeing that it can accomplish a lot more than I think when I push it to its limits.
What song energizes you through the toughest part of your workout?
I can't pick just one! It really depends on what I'm doing. When I'm hiking, anything goes. My favorite genre is indie/folk and I'll often turn that up on trail, but you can also catch me listening to classic rock or singing along to Disney classics. When I'm working out or trail running, I tend to listen to something a little more upbeat to keep me feeling energized. Think dance/electronic music... Anything that gets the adrenaline pumping!
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
"Try harder. Really rest. Have fun." This puts most athletic activities into perspective for me and I can usually draw on one of the sentences during anything. It's also a good reality check when I start to take any activity too seriously.
Do you have any pre-race/competition rituals/superstitions?
I'm not superstitious or very heavily wedded to a routine so I just try to keep everything consistent and in moderation. I usually have a beer or glass of wine the night before a race, why fix something that isn't broken?
What is your proudest athletic moment?
Recently winning the overall at the Bigfoot 100k in 2017 was huge. The course is very challenging (lots of vertical gain and rugged trail conditions) and it was a very hot day. I started hoping to compete for the win in my age group and for a top-20 overall finish and one-by-one the leaders dropped away. I ran the last 10 miles in disbelief and the last two miles with the biggest smile I have ever had.
What is your go-to mantra for living an active life?
For Mommy
What/who inspires you to push yourself to the next level?
My Mom, My Girls (wife & daughter), and those who want to do want I'm doing, but physically can't
What song energizes you through the toughest part of your workout?
Currently: Million Voices - Radio Edit by Otto Knows
Always: Somewhere Over the Rainbow by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole
When you are not training/competing, what are your other favorite hobbies?
Watching TED Talk, reading about leadership, wining and dining
Do you have any pre-race/competition rituals or superstitions?
About the only thing consistent is a beer at dinner for, you know, carb loading and stuff
Who/what inspires you to push yourself to the next level?
Primarily myself...I have always been my biggest critic, but my kids also drive me out of a desire to be the best role model I can be.
When you are not training/competing, what are your other favorite hobbies?
Is there time for anything else!? :-) Spending time with my family with any other time I do have.
If you could race in costume, what would you dress up as?
Captain America...always been a comic book geek
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
"Live to run another day". This mantra is what I remind myself when I have a bad run. It doesn't mean that I'm giving up; it means that I have another day to make myself better, healthy, and stronger.
What is your proudest athletic moment?
Although I have completed the distance of 50 miles + four times now, completing it the first time still resonates in my mind as being one of my proudest adult athletic accomplishments. I didn't think it was possible when I started running, and am proud that I grunted it out. A close second would be obtaining my black belt in Muay Thai.
What are some of your other favorite hobbies when you are not training or competing?
I enjoy lifting weights, boxing, Muay Thai, making kombucha, walking my dogs, woodworking, and traveling with my wife.
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
"Just keep swimming, just keep swimming"
What is your proudest athletic moment?
This one will definitely have to go to finishing my first marathon in December 2017. I'd put in months of work, but as the race drew closer an old nagging injury threatened my chances of racing. I did everything I could in terms of cross training to rest the injury but still train hard as not to lose any fitness before the event. Despite injury, I still managed to run a 3:31 marathon and qualify for Boston!
If you could race in costume, what or who would you dress up as?
If I could get my hands on a giraffe costume, you better believe I'd be in it.
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
"The best pace is a suicide pace, and today is a good day to die." - Steve Prefontaine
Do you have any pre-race/competition rituals/superstitions?
Nope. None.
What or who inspires you to push yourself to the next level?
My Family
What is your proudest athletic moment?
2nd place at Powerman Florida in the elite/pro field. It was my first elite/pro podium finish and it qualified me for the world championships.
What is your go-to workout song?
”Till I Collapse” - Eminem
What are some of your other favorite hobbies when you are not training or competing?
Coaching other athletes. I love coaching and seeing my athletes that I coach improve and develop. I love it.
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
“Swim for brighter days, even in the absence of sun” - Andrew McMahon It’s important to never give up working toward a goal just because you can’t see your progress today. It will be visible in the days ahead.
What or who inspires you to push yourself to the next level?
What has inspired me most is the amazing community of runners that I have been surrounded by. No matter how fast they are, or how slow I am, they’ve accepted me and encouraged me to dig deeper and set new, exciting goals for myself.
What are some of your other favorite hobbies when you are not training or competing?
Hanging with my pups, hammocking, swimming, camping, hiking, and crocheting.
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
Patience is a virtue
What is your proudest athletic moment?
Attempting ultrabeast (32 miles) in Tahoe, even though I did not finish due to injury and cut off times. The fact I pushed through and did not quit, was an accomplishment for me
What are some of your other favorite hobbies when you are not training or competing?
Hiking, eating, cupcake, donuts
What or who inspires you to push yourself to the next level?:
Learning about myself - how I cope in challenging times, and how as a response I get to the next level!
What is your proudest athletic moment?:
2016 AG 70.3 World Champion title
What are some of your other favorite hobbies when you are not training or competing?
exploring new trails and places, and cooking fun dishes from the weekly veggie box!
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
I have always loved the quote, "And though she be but little, she is fierce". I think it describes me pretty well. I have a strong desire to set huge goals and work hard to achieve them.
Do you have any pre-race/competition rituals/superstitions?
My go to pre race meal is from the Run Fast, Eat Slow cookbook; Bison Meatballs with Marinara sauce and pasta. It hasn't let me down yet!
What is your proudest athletic moment?
Running my first marathon, which happened to be a tough trail marathon. It was one of the hardest things I've ever done physically, but it was so rewarding to finish.
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
Give yourself a chance. Just hang on for a few more minutes.
Do you have any pre-race/competition rituals/superstitions?
I like skipping because its silly and it relaxes my mind.
What or who inspires you to push yourself to the next level?
There seems to always be another race that I want to run or place that I'd like to compete. It's a moving target of achievement. I want to go faster and push myself harder. I always want to wander and desire to meet and compete with different people.
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
I always try to keep my mind focused and in the moment and my body relaxed when racing. My go-to mantra (instilled by my college coach Robert Johnson) is "relaxed is fast". By keeping my body relaxed I can let my legs do what they have been trained to do and finish out tough races strong.
Who/what inspires you to push yourself to the next level?
"In terms of who inspires me, I have to say my wonderfully amazing and beautiful wife (and fellow Topo Ambassador) Rachel Schilkowsky! As to what inspires me the answer lies in that I believe that every person owes it to him or herself to fully explore their passion in life. For me, that passion is running and most importantly competing. I want to explore how far I can push myself and to what levels I can take my mind and body."
What is your proudest athletic accomplishment?
I would have to say running 4:02 in the mile. My bucket list still includes the ever-elusive sub-4 minute mile but getting so close at that time was a pretty great feeling.
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
"Everything will be okay in the end, so if it's not okay, it's not the end"
Do you have any pre-race/competition rituals/superstitions?
I say a prayer of thanks for health and safety for me and all the other competitors just before the race. Also, I currently am trying to replace my lucky shorts that got snagged on barbed wire during a recent obstacle course race!
If you could race in costume, what or who would you dress up as?
Robin Hood! Complete with a NERF bow and arrows!
Do you have any pre-race/competition rituals/superstitions?
I eat a pop tart the morning of, listen to Eminem on the way to, and wear a pink shirt during the race.
Who/what inspires you to push yourself to the next level?
My family and who I used to be. I want my girls to be proud of who their dad is and what he has accomplished, and I do not want to go back to that lazy lifestyle I had before running became a part of me.
What is your proudest athletic accomplishment?
Finishing my first 100-mile race (Arkansas Traveller) five weeks after signing up for it.
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
This too shall pass.
Who/what inspires you to push yourself to the next level?
Better, Stronger and Faster is a choice. I am not what happened to me. I am what I choose to become. Today, I have to make a choice.
What are some of your other favorite hobbies when you are not training or competing?
Golfing, rock climbing and hiking.
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
Bite off more than you can chew, and chew anyway.
Who/what inspires you to push yourself to the next level?
Female athletes breaking rules and breaking boundaries. From OG's like Katherine Switzer to modern-day hero's like Kara Goucher, Des Lindon, Emma Coburn, Shelane Flanagan, I could go on :)
If you could race in costume, what or who would you dress up as?
Oooh, probably a goofy TV character. I'd want to do it with another person, and be something fun like Bert and Ernie, or in a group, and dress up like the Power Rangers or Minions.
Who/what inspires you to push yourself to the next level?
When I need an extra push I think of those who are not capable of the movement I am blessed with.
What is your proudest athletic accomplishment?
Completing the Big Frog 65 mile mountain bike race through the Big Frog Wilderness by the Ocoee Whitewater Center in TN.
What song energizes you through the toughest part of your workout?
The wind in my ears ;)
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
One foot after the other.
What is your proudest athletic accomplishment?
Finishing top 20 in some seriously stacked races back in the summer of 2016. Hoping to get back to my former athletic form this season.
What song energizes you through the toughest part of your workout?
Rockstar- Post Malone
What song energizes you through the toughest part of your workout?
Emerson- The Past Should Stay Dead
What is the weirdest thing you have ever done to try to get better, stronger, faster?
Hard one. I guess when I was training and rehearsing to for the Tarzan show I did I had to learn how to move fast like a monkey on my feet and knuckles.
What is your proudest athletic accomplishment?
Making it to the Vegas Finals twice now on American Ninja Warrior
If you could race in costume, what would you dress up as?
Uhm..... Tarzan!
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
"Pepsi Cola's Got the Beat." My mom told me in 2nd grade to use that mantra to keep my cadence from dropping off when I got tired. She said it would keep me focused. I still use it in races (though now I say: "Koala Bear's Got the Beat" and get this great image of a koala thrashing away on a drum set).
Who/what inspires you to push yourself to the next level?
Bernd Heinrich writes: "Every animal knows more than you do." I am inspired by the experience of wild animals. I've spent countless hours tracking wild animals, trying to understand what their experience of the world is like, to have your survival so intimately tied to an awareness of your surroundings. I've tried to put myself in positions to experience the same level of attunement that a wild animal might have, and running feels like the ultimate expression of my feral animal self.
If you could race in costume, what or who would you dress up as?
A yeti! Which I've done on numerous occasions. Makes me feel more feral.
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
“You have not failed until you quit trying.” ― Gordon B. Hinckley
Who/what inspires you to push yourself to the next level?
My family and my health - I live a lifestyle that allows me to have the energy and capabilities to do active things with my family, which I plan on doing throughout my life. Nothing motivates me more than the thought of losing the ability to do the things I love with the people I love.
If you could race in costume, what or who would you dress up as?
A giant peach because...well, no reason. ;)
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
You can throw in the towel or use it to wipe the sweat off your face!
What is your proudest athletic accomplishment?
I found out I was nominated for a spot on the men's national team for rowing (which will eventually be the Olympic team) as a coxswain. There is one seat on the team and about 4 of us in contention and I'm the only woman, so I'm pretty excited to try to be the first. This is the first year women are allowed to compete with men on the world and Olympic level so I'm going all in to try to make the team. It's hard, it's expensive...it's totally worth it!
What are some of your other favorite hobbies when you are not training or competing?
I love filming with GoPros and doing travel/adventure photography while being adventurous! Shark diving, rock climbing, sailing, horseback riding, rowing, running, riding camels, exploring ruins...I do it all! I travel and runs marathons on all 7 continents, too (not quite done with all 7 of those yet!), but I consider myself the Carmen San Diego of adventure...without the crime.
Do you have any pre-race/competition rituals/superstitions?
I've got two little boys so I can't let myself worry about rituals or superstitions...if I did I'd be a headcase before every race because I've learned with kids life pretty much never goes as planned. Its actually helped because I don't have time to stress about a race or overthink it.
Who/what inspires you to push yourself to the next level?
My oldest son. He has Down syndrome and works so hard for even the simplest tasks. Its helped me realize not to take for granted how things like running are easy for me and to constantly push myself as hard as he pushes himself.
What is your proudest athletic accomplishment?
Big buckle at Leadville 100 in 2016 - I had been struggling with finding balance between work and kids and running, I worked so hard to get my training in and when the day came it was one of those days where everything came together and I had a great race. It was a huge mental win for me to know that I was capable of being successful at running, setting big goals and achieving them while still maintaining a family life.
Who/what inspires you to push yourself to the next level?
My peers, fellow runners, and my family. When the going gets tough during a race or training run I think about the goals I;ve set and not wanting to let my daughter down.
What is the weirdest thing you have ever done to try to get better, stronger, faster?
Tried running hills backwards. It wasn't pretty.
What is your proudest athletic accomplishment?
Completing my first 100k trail run. Even though I missed the cutoff I showed my daughter that you should never give up.
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
Before my longest run to date (135 miles around the perimeter of Oahu), my father sent me a text and reminded me to "Be strong and very courageous... and stubborn." The Bible verse, along with his added advice, has gotten me through many tough miles. I strive to be as mentally strong as I am physically tough.
Do you have any pre-race/competition rituals/superstitions?
When valued running friends and mentors send me advice and inspiration, I save these messages. Before every race, I take 10-15 minutes to read and reflect on these words. I also pick a mantra for each race to focus on when the fun has faded and I need to accomplish the goals I set out to achieve. This has been a very powerful tool for me!
What is your proudest athletic accomplishment?
I'm not sure I have just one. My running journey has included many amazing people that have pushed me to go beyond the limits of what I thought was possible. The highlights include my first 100 miler (Yeti 100 in 2017), my first sub 4 hour marathon (One City in 2017), and running the 135 mile Perimeter of Oahu with friends in 2016.
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
I GET to do this! Truly, I am ABLE to run these races and events in amazing and difficult locations. I am healthy and strong and so thankful to get to do this!
What or who inspires you to push yourself to the next level?
Knowing this life is a gift, and raising myself to my greatest potential.
What is your proudest athletic moment?
Finishing a 100 miler! Nothing prepared me for the feeling of joy and accomplishment when I crossed the finish line!
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
"You learn that how you got there was what’s important. Not what you accomplished." - Yvon Chouinard
Who/what inspires you to push yourself to the next level?
My partner. She always encourages me to train and race. She never makes me feel guilty or selfish for the time I dedicate to running.
What is your proudest athletic accomplishment?
Starting back up with running after tearing my meniscus and gaining 60 pounds.
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
My favorite mantra is "relax, run fast"
Who/what inspires you to push yourself to the next level?
Love is what inspires me to push myself. Love for my family, my friends, my rivals, and my sponsors. I never feel like I am alone in a race because my loved ones are always with me.
What is your proudest athletic accomplishment?
The toughest thing I ever did was finish second at the 2017 Terrain race in Irvine. I had the lead until I dislocated my shoulder early in the race. I managed to pop it back in, but my ability to use my arm was severely compromised for the rest of the race, and even a minor stress would cause it to dislocate again, which made every obstacle much tougher to complete. By the end of the race, I had had to stop to pop my shoulder back in the socket 5 times, but I never stopped fighting.
What is your go-to mantra for living an active life?
Why not me?
Do you have any pre-race/competition rituals or superstitions?
I always touch the ground (preferably actual dirt or grass) before I hit the starting line. I like to thank the world for the amazing places it allows me to swim, bike, and run! It helps calm my nerves and makes me feel more centered.
Who/what inspires you to push yourself to the next level?
Those that can't. I can't imagine how many people have missing limbs or are stuck in hospitals. I can't allow myself to waste this healthy and capable body when so many don't even get the chance to experience what running a trail or swimming the ocean feels like. When I don't feel like running I get annoyed with myself and think, ""Anna, at least you have the CHOICE when so many don't. Go.""
If you could race in costume, what would you dress up as?
Wonder Woman or a Ninja Turtle! I have been known to throw on a tutu when I can get away with it!
Do you have any pre-race/competition rituals/superstitions?
Typically a hamburger and lucky Guinness the night before a big race.
What is your proudest athletic accomplishment?
Difficult to pick just one, but winning the 2009 Cayman Islands Marathon was definitely a proud, proud day.
What are some of your other favorite hobbies when you are not training or competing?
Travelling, spending time with family and enjoying the local craft beer scene.
Do you have any pre-race/competition rituals/superstitions?
First thing I do on race morning is to drink a glass of water, then snack on fruit and maybe toast with almond butter, and sip on hot tea.
Who/what inspires you to push yourself to the next level?
Definitely my family! I just always want to make them proud and do my best for them and to also maybe be an example.
What are some of your other favorite hobbies when you are not training or competing?
I love to play music! I play drums and guitar and have even had the opportunity to play live music for race events. I also love to read and write.
Who/what inspires you to push yourself to the next level?
My teammates (and myself) push me to the next level. We are always competing with each other in a healthy way, continually encouraging each other to get faster and stronger. We have a lot of camaraderie.
What is your proudest athletic accomplishment?
Learning that my performance at the 2016 USAT Age Group Nationals qualified me for the 2017 ITU Age Group World Triathlon Championships in Rotterdam, Netherlands and then actually competing on Team USA as the youngest male athlete.
If you could race in costume, what or who would you dress up as?
A banana
What quote/saying do you lean on when the going gets tough?
It's what you do in the dark that put you in the light - Michael Phelps
Do you have any pre-race/competition rituals/superstitions?
Pre race meal: Espresso and a banana
What is your proudest athletic accomplishment?
Setting the record for the youngest triathlete from Gibraltar to complete an Ironman!