Strong Epic Life

I have a very special "proud coach" moment to share today.

Years ago, when I was just lace-up-and-learn beginner back in Ohio, I spent my time looking up to Crystal Shinosky. She was the runner I watched from afar—the woman who inspired me to keep pushing and showed me what was possible in the world of trail running.

Fast forward to today, and I am beyond honored to say that Crystal has officially joined my roster. Having someone you’ve admired for years ask you to guide their training is a humbling, full-circle moment that I don't take for granted.

This past weekend crystal ran the Forget the PR 50k in Mohican, Ohio and beyond being proud of what a great race she ran, I love the happiness and crazy hair at the finish line 🙂

"Sometimes your inspirations become your teammates."

Please join me in congratulating Crystal on an incredible 50K finish! We’re just getting started. 🚀

This is Brad. We set out to run Fierce Dragon 100 together this past weekend. He came to me last year to coach him for Georgia Death Race this spring and being somewhat of an overachiever, when I told my GDR team that I wanted them running the 40 miler at Fierce Dragon- he took it a step further and signed up for the 100- one of the toughest races in the south with 30,000’ of elevation gain. He was a little nervous as he’d never run a mountain 100 so I told him I’d sign up and run it with him. This race is notorious for bad conditions- cold, rain, snow, high winds- and it definitely delivered. The race started Friday morning and we were able to stay on pace with our race plan until the rain hit Friday night and quickly turned to snow as the temps dropped. I developed a cough from the cold air and 50mph winds and by mile 55 around 4:00am saturday my lungs said No more and I sent Brad off to finish without me. Not only did he finish- he finished in first place! I am so proud of this man and I am so honored to have had the opportunity to spend 55 miles in the mountains in his company. His grit and determination are out of this world. Thank you Brad for the inspiration and congratulations on a fantastic performance! GDR will be a walk in the park after this ;)

I am so proud of Drina who just crushed a 50K in Kansas with an awesome finish time of 8:52!
This achievement is remarkable on its own, but what makes it even more amazing is that just one year ago, Drina was non-weightbearing due to an injury. To go from recovery to conquering an ultra at the age of 77 is the definition of resilience and pure grit!
Drina is a true inspiration to all of us. She embodies the spirit of our team by consistently showing up- every morning, she's there, working out online with our team of athletes; she maintains her flexibility and mobility with yoga; she fuels her body with a plant-based diet— she is committed to her wellness every day in every aspect of her life.
Beyond her running and fitness accomplishments, Drina brings unparalleled positivity and support to every single person on our team. She reminds us daily that with commitment, consistency, and a great attitude, anything is possible.
Join me in giving Drina a huge congratulations! 🎉

Photo credit: Mile 90 Photography