Tough Chik Tuesday – Meet Elizabeth, Heather and Laura

Elizabeth

Name: Elizabeth H

Location: Nashville, TN

Sport of Choice: Running

What is you favorite distance/race? My favorite distance is the half marathon. My favorite race is the Disney Princess Half Marathon

What is your “must have” item during races or long rides Music!

What are your goals for 2015? Complete the Beach to Battleship Half Iron Man in October 🙂

What does being a Tough Chik mean to you?  Being a Tough Chik means never giving up. I am slower than a turtle running through peanut butter but I always keep going 🙂 When everyone tells me I can’t, I just go out to prove them wrong and that makes me tough!

What is you biggest struggle?  Staying motivated and sticking to a healthy eating program. I’m a work in progress 🙂

What is one bit of wisdom you would like to pass on to others? Never give up. No matter how hard it is, never give up on yourself or your dreams!

Random fact or biggest pet peeve? My husband and I did our first dance in Bride and Groom Mickey ears with our names on them 🙂

 

 

Name: Heather

Location: Ashburn, VA

Sport of Choice: Running & Triathlon

What is your favorite distance/race? St Charles Festival 10 miler and the Shamrock Half Marathon.

What is your “must have” item during races or long rides? During a race, I have to have my Island Boost and Salt Stick tablets. I’ll crash and burn without them.

What are your goals 2015? Reduce my 5k time!

What does being a Tough Chik mean to you? Setting goals and challenges and taking steps to accomplish them. No matter how big or small. Having an awesome support group to get me through training, races, and general life.

Social Media Links: http://trifrogblog.blogspot.com/

What is your biggest struggle? Staying on track – whether it’s nutrition or training schedule.

What is one bit of wisdom you would like to pass on to others? Don’t compare yourself to everyone else. Find a group that you can be yourself & be at your pace.

 

 

Name: Laura M.

Location: Bixby, OK

Sport of Choice: Running

What is your favorite distance/race? Half Marathon

What is your “must have” item during races or long rides? Music/ Itunes

What are your goals 2015? Set a new PR for a half marathon. Moon up in Half Fanatics by running 8 half marathons within 365 days. Run at least 2 races out of my home state.

What does being a Tough Chik mean to you? I am beyond excited to be a Tough Chik. I am thrilled to be apart of such an amazing, strong, and committed group of women. The going does often get tough and I am thrilled to have this supportive group to laugh, cry, vent, and grow with!

What is your biggest struggle?  I sometimes struggle with times when training or races take me away from my two daughters. I do feel guilty when I miss a soccer game or other kid related activity. I know my husband totally has it handled but I still feel guilty. I try to remind myself that there are A LOT of activities that I am always at. With two girls, I really want them to see how strong girls and women are. I hope on some level that they can see that through my commitment to running. Mom guilt. Blech!

What is one bit of wisdom you would like to pass on to others? Running will not be fun all of the time but those bad runs really make you appreciate the good ones! Like anything, you will have good days and bad days but just keep going!

Random fact or biggest pet peeve? Biggest pet peeve: People who don’t hold doors open for others!

Meet Debbie, Nessa and Jer…2015 Team Tough Chik

Debbie B

Name: Debbie B.

Location: Lawrenceville, Georgia

Sport of Choice: Cycling

What is you favorite distance/race? Love metric centuries (62ish miles). They are the perfect distance, not too long and not too short.

What is your “must have” item during races or long rides? Blueberry, coconut, chocolate rice cakes also know as Little Debbie’s crack cakes.

What are your goals for 2015? Seattle to Portland (200 miler), Week long MS Global ride in Sept (average 60+ miles per day), one half marathon and at least 2 metric century rides.

What does being a Tough Chik mean to you?  Being a Tough Chik means a soft place to fall when you are struggling; however it is also the place to go and get a swift kick in the a$@ when you need it. Love this group of ladies!

What is you biggest struggle?  Getting started. I work from home so making myself get up and go can be challenging.

What is one bit of wisdom you would like to pass on to others? Ride your own ride, don’t worry about how fast or slow you are, just get out there, pedal and enjoy the scenery.

Random fact or biggest pet peeve? Random fact: I have two fur babies, Riley and Jethro.

 

 

Nessa T

Name: Nessa T

Location: IL

Sport of Choice: Running

What is your favorite distance/race? 5 or 10k although I do love the Lincoln Memorial half in Springfield. My favorite race is the BIX 7. The most fun you’ll ever have on a tough course.

What is your “must have” item during races or long rides? The Roo Sport…holds your items and you don’t know its there.

What are your goals 2015? Be the best I can be and encourage others along the way.

What is your biggest struggle? Running in the heat.

What is one bit of wisdom you would like to pass on to others? Don’t compare yourself to others.

Random fact or biggest pet peeve? Love music on a run unless I’m running in a group.

 

 

Name: Jer

Location: Garden grove

Sport of Choice: Triathlons

What is your favorite distance/race? Race on the base, sprint Triathlon (favorites-swim and bike)

What is your “must have” item during races or long rides? Water bottles and fun

What are your goals 2015? Learn how to schedule “training” into my life schedule. Learn to put myself out there more and have fun!

What does being a Tough Chik mean to you? That other strong women are in my same shoes and we can support each other.

What is your biggest struggle? Running and training time with current life. Making time for me!!

What is one bit of wisdom you would like to pass on to others? Just keep swimming (Nemo reference). Feel like stopping-just go to the next short goal and the next.

Random fact or biggest pet peeve? Terrible things don’t happen – it is an adventure, a learning experience. Peeve: people that are not considerate of others.

 

2015 Team Tough Chik – Meet Katie, Michelle and Rasan

Name: Katie

Location: Chicago

Sport of Choice: Triathlon

What is you favorite distance/race? I am not sure yet what my ‘favorite’ is as I have only just begun.

What is your “must have” item during races or long rides? Good bike shorts!!

What are your goals for 2015? I am training for sprint tri’s in 2015 with my A race an Olympic distance. I also have goals to long complete some long distance cycling events.

What does being a Tough Chik mean to you?  I am so inspired by other women’s successes and so happy to be in this group to learn and grow with them.

Social Media Links: http://craftykhandytris.blogspot.com/ and CraftyKhandy on Twitter

What is you biggest struggle?  I have early and severe Osteoarthritis Arthritis in my knees. Running on pavement is difficult for long distances. I am learning how to train to minimize pain and prevent further injury.

What is one bit of wisdom you would like to pass on to others?  Life and Health are precious gifts; if you don’t use them to their fullest now… they will be lost.

 

Name: Michelle D.

Location: Beaverton, OR

Sport of Choice: Running

What is your favorite distance/race? Half

What is your “must have” item during races or long rides? Phone and music

What are your goals 2015? Run an entire half without walking

What does being a Tough Chik mean to you? The relationships and friendships are unreal and so genuine. A true family of constant support no matter what.

Social Media Links: Www.michdenise.com

What is your biggest struggle? Self love

What is one bit of wisdom you would like to pass on to others? Don’t ever give up.

Random fact or biggest pet peeve? I am mom to a 20 year old and 5 year old!
Biggest pet peeve are people online who push push push and are not genuine.

 

Rasan

 

Name: Rasan

Location: California

Sport of Choice: Running and Triathlons

What is your favorite distance/race? Running-10k
Triathlons-sprint

What is your “must have” item during races or long rides? At least one of my Tough Chik buddies, Jody or Holly!

What are your goals 2015? Not sure of all of them, but here are a few. i would like to complete a couple 40+ mile bike rides, 3-4 Sprint triathlons, another RAGNAR, Mudderella, and hopefully an Olympic distance triathlon relay with Jody and Holly!

What does being a Tough Chik mean to you? Being a Tough Chik means an overall mentality that I can face a challenge, physical or mental, and overcome it.

What is your biggest struggle? I struggle with my eating habits.

What is one bit of wisdom you would like to pass on to others? To never underestimate your inner strength and there is so much gained with having friends to train with!

Random fact or biggest pet peeve? I LOVE seeing family and friends achieve their fitness goals!

 

 

2014 Team Tough Chik – Meet Jessica, Michelle and Sue!

Jessica

Name: Jessica S.

Location: Miramar, Florida

Sport of Choice: Running, Triathlon

Hobbies: aside from my life hobbies of Running and Triathlon, my family enjoys boating, model airplanes, RC cars, bike riding, and any other outdoor activities.

2014 Race Plans: 2014 is a big year for me as I embark on many new adventures. I plan to continue in my new Triathlon endeavors with more Sprints, and potentially an Int’l and Oly distance. I will be continuing the HM’s with at least 3 on the schedule, and my biggest planned accomplishment is to complete my first full marathon next December

What makes you a Tough Chik? BELIEVING in my physical abilities. I have only been in the running sport for 3 years and my 1st tri this year and the only thing holding me back is me. I am a full-time out of the home working mom with a police husband working nights. I juggle the school nights of our 2 kids and their swimming mostly alone, but have made it a priority to fit in time for me to be healthy to inspire them.

What is the one gadget you CAN’T live without? none i thought i couldn’t live without my running watch until it broke

What is your favorite inspirational phrase? When you need something to Believe in…. start with yourself.

Fun Fact: I was born at 30 weeks at 4lbs 4 oz and my parents were told to have very low expectations. At 34 years old I have a Bioengineering Degree, have an awesome job designing/developing Heart Pumps (LVADs) and continuously exceed my fitness goals for running and now Tri-ing. Eat that dr’s in 1979 🙂

 

Name: Michelle V.

Location: Las Vegas, NV

Sport of Choice: Running, biking, triathlon in that order. But I love riding my cruiser bike anytime!

Hobbies: Cooking, traveling, hiking, drawing, crocheting, anything fun and creative.

2014 Race Plans: Surf City Half
San Diego Medio Fondo
OC Half

Fall racing not yet determined

What makes you a Tough Chik? I don’t give up easily

What is the one gadget you CAN’T live without? My phone. It connects me to family, friends and the internet.

 

Sue

Name: Sue S.

Location: Gettysburg, PA

Sport of Choice: Running

Hobbies: Running
Cooking
My kids!

2014 Race Plans: April 27, 2014 -Run Like A Diva Half Marathon Myrtle Beach
May 31, 2014 – Zooma Annapolis
June 21, 2014 – Spirit of Gettysburg
November, 2014 – Richmond Marathon (Hopefully!)
TBD

What make you a Tough Chik? Life makes me a Tough Chik! I had three little girls in FOUR years, and then was diagnosed with Thyroid Cancer. I had surgery, radiation, and today still deal with it. Having kids to care for though doesn’t give you an opportunity to hesitate. Life goes on and you need be the best example to your children that you can.

What is the one gadget you CAN’T live without? IPOD Nano

What is your favorite inspirational phrase? We Create Our Own Tomorrow By What We Dream Today

Fun Fact:I love anything with flowers, or plaid! Mornings

2014 Team Tough Chik – meet Christine, Erika and Barbara

Christine

Name: Christine H.

Location: Harwich, MA (Cape Cod)

Sport of Choice: Running

Hobbies: Outside of Running, I enjoy anything Walt Disney, I enjoy flying in our little Cessna airplane with my husband, I love going to plays, and reading.

2014 Race Plans: Feb 2014 Princess Half Marathon WDW
Hoping to do Coast to Coast with Sept 2014 Disneyland Half Marathon, Dumbo Dare with fellow TTC Virginia Howard, and also Rock’N Roll 1/2 St. Louis.

What makes you a Tough Chik? I think I am a Tough Chik because I keep moving- sometimes it isn’t what I want to do, but I do it anyways!

What is the one gadget you CAN’T live without? I don’t think I have any gadget I cant live without

What is your favorite inspirational phrase? My favorite inspiration quote is by Walt Disney,
“The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.”

Fun Fact: My husband and I were married at Walt Disney World and Mickey Mouse was at our reception.

 

Erika

Name: Erika M.

Location: Canton, MI

Sport of Choice: Triathlon

Hobbies: Other than swimming/biking/running, I love spending time with my daughter Julia (and now Emily!), my husband Rob, scrap booking, outdoor activities with friends and family and anything around Michigan State!

2014 Race Plans: I’m due with my second baby in April 2014 (she just had baby Emily our newest Toughie!), so race plans are a bit on hold until late summer. I hope to compete in the National Age Group Championships for Olympic distance triathlon in August, but that’s TBD. Beyond that, I may do some late season triathlons and maybe a half marathon here and there.

What makes you a Tough Chik? I am determined, focused and won’t let anything stand in my way. When I’m faced with difficult situations or trying to juggle a million things at once, I find a way to make things work and still continue to train and work towards my goals.

I also love helping my friends achieve their goals – and even though in the midst of a race when I’m pushing them beyond their limits and they hate me at the time, once we cross the finish line they are so thankful for my help. Tough love sometimes does the trick!

What is the one gadget you CAN’T live without? my iPhone

What is your favorite inspirational phrase? You will never know your limits until you push yourself to them and beyond.

Fun Fact: I was one of the first Bicentennial babies born in Washington DC

Barbara

Name: Barbara W.

Location: Llano, CA

Sport of Choice: Triathlon and Cycling

Hobbies: I own my own internet business and I also help my husband with his business. We each have our own Harley’s and enjoying taking them out. As well as off roading in our Polaris and cruising in our Dune Buggy. So basically anything with wheels I love. I also have a TT Bike, Road Bike and Mountain Bike. Yes, they all get used.

I love to go pine cone hunting and hiking.

I also love crafting and scrap booking.

2014 Race Plans: So far ..

Shadow Tour 50 Miler in January in Ocotillo, CA
Firecracker Bike 30 Miles and Run 10K in February in Chinatown – Los Angeles
Napa Valley 70.3 Triathlon – CA in April
Silverman 70.3 in Henderson, NV in Oct

What make you a Tough Chik: I’m a TOUGH CHIK because I don’t let nothing get in my way of my dreams.   I give it all I have and do my best. I want to show my family and friends it is never too late to start.

Here is my blog of where I came from and where I am going.

http://BionicBarbiTri-ing.Blogspot.Com

75 lbs later and a new hip and shoulder reconstruction I am ready to TEAR IT UP! Ironman 2015 is right around the corner.
What is the one gadget you CAN’T live without? Iphone because of the music

What is your favorite inspirational phrase? There are No Mountains You can’t climb!

Fun Fact:I am a jokester! I love making people laugh and acting goofy.

And if I see you out there racing, you just might hear me yelling HI or waving to everyone I can! Sometimes I forget its a race!

2014 Team Tough Chik – Meet Ronda, Christine and Jody!

Ronda

Name: Ronda W.

Location: White Hall, MD

Sport of Choice: Running, cycling, soccer, volleyball, hiking

Hobbies: Reading, sewing, crochet, gardening, playing 🙂

2014 Race Plans: Disney Princess Half Marathon in February, women’s sprint duathalon Columbia MD in August. I’m planning for a fall marathon too, just haven’t picked a race yet. Will run another half or two. I’ll also run some 5ks and 10ks. 🙂

What makes you a Tough Chik? Well….I wasn’t sure I qualified as a tough Chik at first. I started running regularly January 2012 for me and my sanity. I survived my divorce and was finding me. I ran a 5k in February. I ran my first half marathon October 2012. I’ve run 3 half marathons and a marathon since then. Completed a Tough Mudder. I’ve PR’d in my 5k, 10k, half and marathon this year. My journey has been fantastic and I can’t wait to see where this year goes!

What is the one gadget you CAN’T live without? My Garmin forerunner 10 aka “G”

What is your favorite inspirational phrase? Just one??
Doing today what others won’t so tomorrow I can do what others can’t.
Your legs aren’t giving out. Your head is. Keep going.
Run when you can, walk if you need to, crawl if you must, just never give up.
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Fun Fact: I have great Halloween costumes. This year I was Wonder Woman. 🙂
I named my bike Squirt.

 

Name: Christine C.

Location: Orange County CA

Sport of Choice: Road Biking, 5K races, Triathlon sprints, hiking

Hobbies: Tending my garden, road biking with my buddies and having fun with my cats.

2014 Race Plans: Race on the Base, as well as some other local Tri-sprint events. I’ll probably ride the OCW Century in September

What makes you a Tough Chik? I may not be at the top of the leader board, but I’ll grit my teeth and push on! As I become more athletic, I am becoming more OK with my competitive nature! I like being strong and active!

What is the one gadget you CAN’T live without? can’t think of one

What is your favorite inspirational phrase? pain is temporary, pride is forever
Destroy your illusions

 

Jody

Name: Jody D.

Location: Marysville, CA

Sport of Choice: 1) Running
2) Cycling
3) Tri

Can’t pick only one……

Hobbies: Training, reading, being outdoors

2014 Race Plans: Several small races + my first 10 miler and my first 1/2 marathon!

What make you a Tough Chik: Pushing myself beyond what I think are my limits and always trying to up the ante!

What is the one gadget you CAN’T live without? Garmin

What is your favorite inspirational phrase? Make your moves count ’cause you ain’t dead yet!

Fun Fact:I love the ocean.

2014 Team Tough Chik – Meet Kim, Danielle S and Danielle C!

Kim

Name: Kim P.
Location: Jersey Shore
Sport of Choice: Running, especially the Half Marathon
Hobbies: Crochet, movies, reading, logic puzzles, kayaking, paddle boarding
2014 Race Plans: Dopey, 14 half Marathons, a duathlon, some mud runs, including the Spartan Race, a bunch of 5Ks, a few 5 milers, and a couple 10Ks 😉
What makes you a Tough Chik? Perseverance, I never give up, no matter what! I may not be a fast runner, but I finish what I start!
What is the one gadget you CAN’T live without? iPhone
What is your favorite inspirational phrase? John Bingham: ‘The miracle isn’t that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start.’
Fun Fact: I was once the back cover/inside story girl in a Collage Video’s catalog.

Danielle

Name: Danielle S.
Location: Westbrook, Maine
Sport of Choice: running
Hobbies: Now that I have my son, my “hobbies” have taken a back seat… but other than running, I enjoy spending time with my family, taking photographs, reading, and attempting to learn how to sew.
2014 Race Plans: Mid Winter Classic 10 miler in February, Great Bay Half Marathon in April, Maine Coast Marathon in May, potentially the Pineland Farms 50k, Bradbury Mountain Trail running series, and potentially two fall marathons. I’m tired just looking at that schedule, haha (and I’m sure that wont be all!)
What makes you a Tough Chik? I think just being able to lace up my shoes and get out the door for a run makes me a tough chik (makes anyone a tough chik!)… but I ran a 10k, two 5ks, and two marathons (!!) while pregnant, and bounced back after having him and ran 3 half marathons in 6 weeks, and getting a new shiny PR. Life with a newborn is tough, but running makes me feel so good and helps me be a healthy role model for my son!
What is the one gadget you CAN’T live without? My nalgene water bottle… i know its not a gadget, but I cant live without it!
What is your favorite inspirational phrase? “When you come to the edge of all the light you know and are about to step off into the darkness of the unknown, faith is knowing one of two things will happen: There will be something solid to stand on, or you will be taught how to fly.” -Patrick Overton
Fun Fact: omg I LOVE fun facts! After meeting my (now) husband and deferring my acceptance into a Social Work masters program in Boston, I changed my career path entirely. I am now a Respiratory Therapist at a small hospital in southern Maine and I love the work that I do. There are many things in my life that remind me to always keep my mind open to new opportunities. You never know where the road of life may lead you, but its hard to see all the beauty if you keep your eyes closed.

Danielle

Name: Danielle C.
Location: RI / NC
Sport of Choice: Running
Hobbies: Other than running, I enjoy spending time with my family. I have two great kiddos who keep me very active! I enjoy reading, cooking, photography, designing, blogging at fitmomsfullplates.com, sewing, and watching Project Runway and Top Chef.
2014 Race Plans: I’m hoping to run a late spring marathon to try for another BQ time but I’m also going to be moving from RI to NC at that time so it will be difficult to train. If that doesn’t work out then I’m looking at Air Force Marathon in September as a last chance 2015 BQ time.

I think I will also be running NYC in the fall, as I am the last year grandfathered into the 3 and in rule for the lottery selection!
What make you a Tough Chik: I don’t accept anything less than my best! Running is not something natural for me–it has taken a lot of hard work and dedication to get where I am. I still have a long way to go in order to get where I want to be, and I won’t accept less than 110% of my effort. It’s about inspiring others and showing my daughter that if you put the work in and believe in yourself anything is possible!
What is the one gadget you CAN’T live without? iPhone…it has my music play lists AND a camera…what more do I need?
What is your favorite inspirational phrase? I have a few but if I narrowed it down to two the first would be from Dolvett on the Biggest Loser–“Hard Work; Dedication!” it applies to so many different areas of life–not just running!

My own mantra that I repeat to myself is “Be epic; run fierce; and have bitchin’ focus!”
Fun Fact: I’m moving from RI to NC at the start of the year. It’s bittersweet because I’m leaving my extended family and friends and everything familiar to me and starting a new journey with my husband and kids where we know 1 person. It’s going to be a challenge but w

 

2014 Team Tough Chik – Meet Dede, Kathy and Whitney!

Dede

Name: Dede H.

Location: Big Bear Lake

Sport of Choice: Biking, swimming, paddling

Hobbies: Biking, gardening, SUP, kayak, hiking

2014 Race Plans: Tour de Palm Springs
Snowshoe the Bear
Big Bear PaddleFest
Big Bear Memorial Day 5k
Kodiak 100 (support)
Tour de Big Bear (support)
Big Bear MTB Gran Fondo (organizer)
Big Bear Grizzly 100 (organizer)
Endure the Bear
Big Bear Turkey Trot
Big Bear Triathlon (support and/or participant)
complete a century ride or sprint tri???

What makes you a Tough Chik? I have always been one tough chik!!! At over 60, I keep on keeping on! Still think I can do everything I have done all my life and MORE.   I am thankful that my daughter and her friends all accept me as the “mom” of the group.

What is the one gadget you CAN’T live without? Kindle

What is your favorite inspirational phrase? My life is better than your vacation. (I’m retired and enjoying life!)

Fun Fact: Lauren’s mom…and the rest of the Big Bear gals!

 

Kathy

Name: Kathy A.

Location: Ohio

Sport of Choice: Running and biking.

Hobbies: Reading, studying (I am a college student now that my children are almost grown – and I love it!!) and running. Playing with my 2 adorable grandchildren.

2014 Race Plans: I always run a couple of 5ks in my hometown, and I would love to run my second marathon if I have time to train. I would really love to run a trail marathon. Maybe a couple of half marathons.

What makes you a Tough Chik? I started running a few years ago when I was 42 years old, but I have been biking for a long time. I bike the MS Pedal to the Point (150 miles) every year.

What is the one gadget you CAN’T live without? Garmin watch. No, my iphone.

What is your favorite inspirational phrase? Just change one letter and hill becomes hell. Hah! My sister & I say that repeatedly on long bike rides!

Fun Fact:I am one of 11 children and I have 7 kids of my own. Holidays are crazy but so fun!

 

 

Whitney

Name: Whitney Sutherland

Location: Bella Vista, AR

Sport of Choice: Triathlon – Running, Swimming, Biking!

Hobbies: I enjoy reading and hanging out with my family. I wish I was a craftier person! I do occasionally try to get crafty with new recipes!

2014 Race Plans: Still working them out but currently signed up for Disney Princess Half Marathon. I have a few signature triathlon races that I do every year…Route 66 Festivus in June and Shark Sprint in July.

What make you a Tough Chik: I think I’m a Tough Chik because I have the courage to try. I was not an athletic person growing up. My sport was dance which does count but it wasn’t something that I did competitively. I love doing triathlon and running races because it helps me discover what I am capable of and that has a huge impact on every aspect of my life.

What is the one gadget you CAN’T live without? My Garmin!

What is your favorite inspirational phrase? Finish stronger than you started.

Fun Fact:My family enjoys sports together. We do a Turkey Trot together every year and a 4th of July race together too. Even my nieces and nephew participate. What’s super fun for me is to see my sisters and their kids get interested in triathlon now too.

 

 

2014 Team Tough Chik – Meet Andrea, Maria and Katharine

Name: Andrea T.

Location: Jacksonville, FL

Sport of Choice: Running

Hobbies: motorcycle riding

2014 Race Plans:

The Gate River Run
Wolfson’s Children Hospital ultra marathon
The Donna Full Marathon

What makes you a Tough Chik? being a strong runner yet not having a “runner’s body”

What is the one gadget you CAN’T live without? gps

What is your favorite inspirational phrase? suck it up buttercup

 

Maria

Name: Maria L.

Location: South Lyon, MI

Sport of Choice: Running, skiing, bike riding.

Hobbies: Gardening, reading, sight-seeing.

2014 Race Plans: Marathon Maniac in May!!! with Flying Pig and Rite Aid Cleveland
Hollywood Half
Chicago Women Rock Half
Martian Marathon
Whatever comes up and sounds good.!

What makes you a Tough Chik? I’m a Tough Chik because once I set a goal I do whatever I have to reach it. I don’t give up easily!

What is the one gadget you CAN’T live without? NIKE GPS

What is your favorite inspirational phrase? You only get ONE life so LIVE it!

 

Katie

Name: Katharine R.

Location: Texas

Sport of Choice: Running, Triathlon

Hobbies: Girl Scouts
Weight lifting

2014 Race Plans: Galveston Marathon
Seabrook half
Austin Triathlon
Sugarland Triathlon
Fort Worth Marathon
Firecracker 4 Miler
BCS Marathon

What make you a Tough Chik: I may not be the fastest or smartest, but I am the most dedicated and I succeed by my sheer determination.

What is the one gadget you CAN’T live without? Iphone 5

Ragnar SoCal or BUST – Meet the Tough Chik Team!

I am beyond stoked for Ragnar SoCal!  What is Ragnar you may ask?  According to the Ragnar website:

“Ragnar is the overnight running relay race that makes testing your limits a team sport.  You and 11 of your craziest friends (or 5 of your crazier friends for an ultra team) pile into two vans and tag team running 200(ish) miles, day and night, relay-style. Only one runner hits the road at a time. Each participant runs three times, with each leg ranging between 3-8 miles (OR 12 in our case!) and varying in difficulty. So, from the elite runner down to the novice jogger, it’s the perfect race for anyone.”

I have wanted to compose a Team Tough Chik Ragnar team for years, but with the encouragement of Tough Chik Ambassador, Lisa, I decided that 2014 was going to be the year and So Cal was going to be the place!

 

We would LOVE for you to follow our adventure!  Below is our team and their individual blogs, twitter and instagram handles.  We will be using the hashtag #TTCRagnar14.  So follow Team Tough Chik and we tough it out down the California coast starting Friday April 4th at 6AM!  It will be EPIC!

 

Here is Team Tough Chik Ragnar So Cal 2014!

RUNNER 1 – LISA – FT. MONTGOMERY, NEW YORK

LISA

Blog: http://www.lisarunsforcupcakes.com/

Twitter: @lruns4cupcakes

Instagram: lisarunsforcupcakes

RUNNER 2 – KRYSTAL – FT. WORTH, TX

KRYSTAL

 

RUNNER 3 – VIRGINIA – YORBA LINDA, CA

VIRGINIA

 

RUNNER 4 – VALERIE – DIAMOND BAR, CA

VALERIE

Instagram – mrsvgoyer

Twitter – @vgoyer

RUNNER 5 – SHANNON – LAKE FOREST, CA

SHANNON

Blog: toughchik.wordpress.com

Instagram – toughchik

Twitter – @tough_chik

RUNNER 6 – HELEN – LAKE COUNTRY, BC

HELEN

http://www.helenmills.me

Instagram: @brit_chick

 

RUNNER 7 – AMY – FULLERTON, CA

AMY

Instagram: Bookaim

RUNNER 8 – THERESA – HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA

THERESA

Instagram: @theresadnelson

 

RUNNER 9 – KATHY – CHINO HILLS, CA

KATHY

 

RUNNER 10 – JESSY – HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA

JESSY

Blog: Jessynelson.wordpress.com

Instagram: @jessynelson

Twitter: @chicksthat

 

RUNNER 11 – CASEY – SKOKIE, IL

CASEY

http://CaseyGirl.net

Twitter: @CaseyGirl00

RUNNER 12 – TINA – CALGARY, AB

TINA

http://fabulosi-t.blogspot.ca

Instagram: crantina

Twitter: crantina

DRIVER VAN 1 – LAUREN – BIG BEAR, CA

LAUREN

 

DRIVER – VAN 2 – JULIE – SANTA ANA, CA

JULIE

Instagram – @moreylifescapes