Tri Beginner‘s Luck

The Kinetic Force behind Kinetic Multisports: Greg Hawkins

Race directors may not get as much limelight as athletes and coaches - but they should! After all, we wouldn’t have any races if it weren’t for the race director! This week, we chat with  Greg Hawkins, owner and race director of Kinetic Multisports, to get an inside view on how the RD is one of the most important ingredients for our race day fun and safety. 

Greg started with humble beginnings, riding his bike to school because he was too proud to ride the bus. On one of his rides, he saw a sign that would change the trajectory of his life.  It was a flyer for a triathlon.  From his first race, he was hooked and his love affair for triathlons began..  He went on to volunteer and then work for a production company, which helped him to realize he loved event production and wanted to do his part to have a party on wheels.  

We talk to Greg about the importance of safety at a race, what a beginner should expect, and the importance of being a USAT member (which you may recall a similar message from episode 1 when we talked with Rocky Harris).  We also chat about how racing has changed since Covid and what it takes to be a race director,  if you are interested. 

If you haven’t learned by now there is always a chance an episode can go off the rails and of course this episode is no different.  We talk about all things triathlon - and then some!

Greg is very passionate  about creating a safe yet fun and vibrant  race experience. To help with that he stresses the importance of reading all the material sent prior to race day. 99% of the answers are there and it will help in ensuring everyone has a great race.  We also chat about the most commonly violated Rules… Check it out!   

This is a great episode and I hope you learn, laugh, and #GoraceKinetic #GoKinetic 

Follow Tri Beginner's luck on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.  And send any questions or feedback you have to  imreadyto@tribeginnersluck.com.  

 

There are No Limits with Lindsay Leigh, Triathlon and Nutrition Coach

The 4th discipline of triathlon is the least mentioned yet it can be the most important.  In this episode, we talk to Coach Lindsay Leigh about her journey to the sport of triathlon, demystify nutrition vs. fueling, when the best time is to eat sugar, and the basics of how to fuel for different triathlon distances.  We also focus on the importance of clean eating while getting high nutrient density foods that are full of lots of good stuff to help our bodies repair and grow. 

Do you know how to  distinguish the difference between dietitians, nutritionists, and nutrition coaches? We got you covered. 

Lindsay is so freaking amazing!   She’s a wife, mother, has a M.S. in Biology and is a certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist through NSCA, USAT Level II long course Coach, Training Peaks Level 2 Certified Coach, Certified Yoga Instructor, and NESTA Nutrition Coach. Lindsay was a competitive swimmer from a young age and throughout college. She also ran cross country her last 2 years of college. This perfect blend eventually led her to become a formidable triathlon competitor, having done multiple Ironman Triathlons, including two world championships in Kona, multiple 70.3 world championships, and eight marathons.

If your nutrition plan isn’t dialed in, it can make a triathlon very difficult. So get prepared to learn more about the 4th discipline of triathlon as this episode is bursting with flavor (You have to listen to get the inside joke)!  

Follow Tri Beginner's luck on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.  And send any questions or feedback you have to  imreadyto@tribeginnersluck.com.  

Dare to Dream with Sika Henry, The First African-American Professional Triathlete

A dream deferred has become a dream realized.  Next to the definitions of perseverance, overcomer, determined, and committed, you will find a beautiful picture of the First African American Professional Triathlete, Sika Henry! 

Sika is beloved not only for her athleticism, but her authenticity and transparency as she shared the details of her journey on her blog and social media..  Sika doesn’t hold back on the ugly truths, nor does she paint a beautiful picture that seems unrealistic or unattainable. She shares the good, the bad, and the ugly in a way that helps everyone learn the power of big dreams and determination. .  

Can you believe that Sika works full time as a corporate analyst and still finds time to make her dreams come true as a professional triathlete?  My Goodness: she makes tri’ing look so easy although she will be the first to tell you that being a triathlete is HARD!  

In this episode, Sika brings the laughter, the inspiration, the hard truths, and you will hear how she is still learning how to tri, as she conquers training with power, as well as the importance of looking good when she races.  Because when you look good, you feel good, and you race good!  

You already know this is a good one, so sprint to your favorite listening platform and get into this episode!

 

Follow Tri Beginner's luck on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.  And send any questions or feedback you have to  imreadyto@tribeginnersluck.com.  

 

We Are Better Together When We Tri with Kings and Queens Rule Together Relay Teams

We’ve got a bonus episode for you this week, with our interview with two different relay teams.  Joining a relay can have a lasting impact for those who participate - like a gift that keeps on giving.  We hope this episode is a great present for you as we start off the season of giving! 

In this episode, we talk to two relay teams from the  Kings Rule Together and Queens Rule Together, a community of passionate, active cyclists of all ages, genders and skill levels. Founded in 2019 with 4 eager riders from northwest Philadelphia, PA, and now with 200 + riders and counting. Their mission is to promote a fun healthy lifestyle while fully committed to bringing diversity to the sport of cycling. 

During our interview, we learn how being on a relay team really is the gift that keeps on giving, with an impact that spans well beyond race day.  In one case, a relay has sparked an interest to do a solo triathlon for another athlete, winning a scholarship created a pathway to entry, which encouraged one member to get other athletes inspired and engaged to want to compete in relays.  And, we see how one company is putting their money where they want access and creating unique opportunities to build community around sports, specifically triathlon. 

It only takes one to change a life.   Tune in and enjoy this Bonus episode! 

Follow Tri Beginner's luck on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.  And send any questions or feedback you have to  imreadyto@tribeginnersluck.com  . 

 

Because of you, I can Tri with Leslie Tookes

Has a friend introduced you to the sport of triathlon, and encouraged you to tri? Or, have you been inspired by people you know who tri, and in turn, thought about whether you could do so as well? 

If so, that is the case for most triathletes! Somewhere along the line, we had a friend, family member or acquaintance who tried, and then we caught the tri-curious bug. Before we know it, we can’t imagine our life without it  and we start to invite others into the sport. 

That’s my story!  I first learned about the sport from my friend Leslie Tookes, and now I can’t imagine my life without Triathlon.  I am so grateful that Leslie Tookes and I  met so she could convince me to TRI! 

Leslie is a wife, mother, triathlete, and community engager!  She uses her lifestyle to introduce and engage people in sports.  Leslie is what we like to call a lighter,  She helps to ignite  passions and help steer them on  the path to health and fitness.  She was featured in Essence in 2009 in an article entitled, “Going The Distance” for being a working mother and triathlete.  She is truly phenomenal. 

This episode is very personal for me.  If I hadn’t taken a bite of the Tri pie, this podcast wouldn't exist. As we celebrate what we are thankful for this week,  I thought it would be fitting for me to express my gratitude to Leslie and give her verbal flowers while she can hear them.  

We all have a Leslie in our lives and I just want to encourage you to take a moment and thank them.  Whether it’s your family member,  friend, co-worker, or some strangers' social media feed that inspired you.   Say Thank you!  Our lives are better because of them! 

As you prepare for your Thanksgiving meal I hope this brings back memories of when you first tri’ed or helps you get prepared to Tri!  

I also want to say thank you for listening consistently to this podcast and for sharing your valuable feedback.  I couldn’t do this podcast without two wonderful women who believed in my vision and were willing to take a risk on me.  So they know who they are and would light me up in our group text if I mention them… but I want them to know how incredibly grateful I am of them!  This world is better because of  people like them and the reason you can hear this podcast!  

Okay already… we can save the mushies for the episode!   

 

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your families!!!

 

Follow Tri Beginner's luck on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.  And send any questions or feedback you have to  imreadyto@tribeginnersluck.com. 

Time to Tri Beginners Luck with Tisa Holley, Matthew LaPointe, Rob Mara, and Saadiq Stewart

The Pointer Sisters got it right with the song, “I’m so excited, and I just can't hide it, I'm about to lose control and I think I like it!”  OHHHH YESSSSSSS!!! 

This podcast has had an explosive effect on me and I’m just bursting with gratitude every time I get to chat with a guest. And with this episode,  I’m not sure how I contained myself because I get to chat with four beginners who have four very distinct personalities and journeys!   They are the reason this podcast exists!!!  

Oh these stories will have you laughing and feeling inspired, as we chart the pre-race journey for 3 of our 4 guests. If you are thinking about taking the leap to tri, this episode will help you find the courage to make it happen.  

Allow me to introduce you to the Accidental Triathlete, Matthew LaPointe; The Avid Cyclist/Runner, Saadiq; The Pinterest Queen, Tisa Holley; and Mr. Zero to 70.3 Rob Mara! 

All I can say is put on your googles,  clip in , and let’s get ready to roll and run into this episode!   

Follow Tri Beginner's luck on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.  And send any questions or feedback you have to  imreadyto@tribeginnersluck.com . 

Knowledge Builds Confidence with Brian Grasky, USAT 2020 Coach of the Year

The more you know the more you can grow.  So naturally, more knowledge builds your confidence.  Can I get an Amen!  I love that Brian Grasky’s philosophies are rooted in expert knowledge and long term education. 

Brian Grasky is a coach’s coach.  He is the ultimate athlete’s coach.  He is the 2020 USA Triathlon coach of the year. That tells you what you need to know about Brian,  He is the bomb.com! 

With over 20 years of coaching experience,  Brian is a certified level III USAT Coach where he assists the USAT Coaching education team with course certification for Level I and II coaches. 

Our Host, MichandaShines gets real with Brian.  This informative yet candid conversation is one that can support your tri journey now and into the future. . We learn how Brian was introduced to triathlon, we get some of his coaching secrets, learn more about him personally, and how he balances a military job with owning five businesses.  

 

You are in for a treat, so tune in and enjoy!  

 

Follow Tri Beginner's luck on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.  And send any questions or feedback you have to  imreadyto@tribeginnersluck.com . 

It Takes A Village To Raise A Triathlete with Yvonne Spencer, CEO and Founder of Fast Chix

Royalty is in the building for this episode.  Tri Royalty that is!  

Now, have you ever put your foot in your mouth and gotten stuck in a situation you couldn’t get out of? Well, that’s what happened to Yvonne Spencer when she expressed an interest in triathlon. She was held accountable to get it done - and get it done she did!! She has become an amazing triathlete, leader, and community organizer.

Yvonne Spencer  has been doing triathlons long before they were popular.  She is a leader in the triathlon world, forging a national community of amazing women who tri as the CEO and Founder of Fast Chix.

If that’s not enough, Yvonne is active duty military where she serves as a Colonel.  She’s also a coach and influencer.  What can’t you do Yvonne? 

She is the epitome  of a dedicated community leader.  She is helping to change the face of triathlon one fast chix at a time. She recognizes that community is a significant component of being a triathlete to increase longevity in and enjoyment of this sport. 

With their recent 501c3 status, let's help them continue to reach their goals.  Visit www.fastchix.org to find out more information and ways to give or email fastchixltd@gmail.com. Also connect with them on social media: @withlipgloss  and @fastchix1_ . 

Trick and Tri with Jason Bahamundi, CEO of Run Tri Bike

In this episode of Tri Beginner’s Luck, we have the pleasure of talking to Jason Bahamundi, triathlete, ultrarunner, and co-owner of RunTriMag - a magazine and website that helps those new to endurance sport. We find out what sparked Jason’s passion for beginners,  learn more about his magazine,  bike handling skills, how overtraining can lead to DNF’s and most importantly how finding your Tri Tribe can be a game changer. 

 Can you believe his friends tricked him into doing Triathlons?  

Jason is just as energetic as I am, so if you want to laugh while being informed this episode is for you. 

Be sure to visit runtrimag.com to subscribe to Jason’s magazine and follow on social media: @runtrimag. 

Tri for Impact with Rocky Harris, USA Triathlon CEO

In this episode of Tri Beginner’s Luck we chat with the CEO of  USA Triathlon, Rocky Harris.  We learn about Rocky’s journey in sports from his passion for sport as an athlete and business person to his focus on ensuring sport has a positive impact on society. 

We learn how a tragic infection forces him to make a decision about his health and his future in sport. He chose to challenge himself and that was the start of Rocky’s love affair with Triathlon, over a decade ago.  He experienced yet   yet another health scare that studies have shown affect many triathletes today.  It’s important to know your body to a fault and FIGHT for your HEALTH. His story can help us all!

It doesn’t stop there.  We dig deeper to find out more about who Rocky is beyond being the CEO of USAT.  We dive into what USAT is and it’s importance for the triathlon community.  We discuss how members contribute and support the organization and the role that USAT and its members play in the Olympics.  

We have some juicy juice on an important update from USAT and what’s happening to the USAT one day fee.  Then we just let loose with some rapid fire questions, you sure don’t want to miss. It is mmmm. mmmmm GOODT, yes with T on the end! 

Finally, We practice what we preach at Tri Beginner’s luck.  We are Tri-ing!!!!  Literally and Figuratively!   You may hear some outdated information… but the content is still dope.  I mean,  we are beginners as well in the podcast space so be gentle with us!  Follow us on our Social Platforms, Subscribe on your favorite Podcast app, and please support what we are doing!