Karen Hoch (Kansas City, Missouri)

 

Headshot:  Coming soon!

 

Specific goals for 2007 season

-         Place in the top three of my age level (running);

-         Shave 30 seconds off my race running pace (currently at 7:30);

-         Participate in three local half marathons and one out-of-state half marathon;

-         Participate in at least two triathlons;

-         Buy a race bike (I’m new to cycling)!

 

Long-term goal:

Compete in an Ironman.

 

My favorite event, and why:

 

My favorite event of 2006 was the Rose Brooks Women Triathlon. It was my first tri and thought it was run very professionally.  I found it motivating and inspiring to be amongst all women athletes.  There was a special camaraderie I have not felt at other races.  I was also thrilled with my final results and feel confident I would have done better if I had a real racing bike! (Hence a goal for 2007...)

 

 

My bike:

 

Shopping for one!

 

About me:

 

At 37 years young, I have been involved in competitive sports since High school although I didn’t start running (recreational) until after my freshman year in college when I had gained the infamous ’20!’ 

 

In 1998, I heard a radio commercial for Team in Training and proudly completed the Disney Marathon in January of 1999.  My ‘running addiction’ didn’t come to full fruition though until after the birth of my son in 2001.  That spring I organized a group of moms who were also interested in getting back in shape.  Granted our top priority was the coffee after our run, but still it served its purpose. 

 

From there I started participating in local short races and eventually built-up to running half marathons.  In 2005, I developed plantar fasciitis in my left foot.  This left me with no other choice but to cut back on running and try other activities.  I took my first spinning class and was hooked.   With an almost healed foot and a new appreciation of cycling, I decided it was time to compete in my first Triathlon.  I chose the Rose Brooks Women’s Triathlon as my first race and loved every minute.  In addition to running and spinning, I enjoy strength training and yoga. 

 

I am the Director of Conferences for People to People International, which has provided me the opportunity to travel (another passion of mine) to places such as Italy, Australia, Egypt, and Denmark.  I am very interested in nutrition and made the big leap to ‘vegetarian’ beginning this year.  I love to spend time with the sunshine of my life ~ my five-year old son Luc.    Originally from the Boston area, I have lived in Kansas City since 1994 and currently reside in quaint Brookside (Kansas City, Missouri).