Where did you find your start? My official triathlon career started I was shooting the XTERRA USA Championships in Lake Tahoe in 2005 for the local newspaper and of out of shape at the time. I was super inspired and decided I would try to qualify for the race the previous year. That being said I was a collegiate runner and cross country skier and that started when someone in my Spanish class asked me if I wanted to be on the high school cross country ski team and I thought 'why not?'

Biggest-littlest achievement- Biggest: Placing 3rd at the ITU Cross Triathlon World Championships in 2011, littlest: getting @iamspecialized to follow me on twitter, they could have stopped following me but I'd rather not know. Having one of the kids I coach say, "I'm so happy inside!" during practice.

What did you win when you were younger that really got you hooked on racing? I remember winning two medals in a swim race when I was 5 or 6. My brother not winning any and kind of being bummed out on the car ride home. I remember looking at the medals and thinking about giving him one but decided to keep them for myself. I regret not giving him that medal but athletes are supposed to be somewhat selfish right?

Favorite race? Downieville Classic, The Great Ski Race, XTERRA Lake Tahoe

Favorite ride? The Crest Trail, Park City and the Tahoe Rim Trail from Mt Rose in Lake Tahoe

Favorite food to eat after a ride? A tri tip burrito from T's Rotisserie in Incline Village, Nevada.

Favorite training partner? My 6 year old border collie Kip. He's been with me from the start of my triathlon career, I really appreciate his enthusiasm even in the worst conditions.

my favorite quote is: "Style is knowing who you are, what you want to say and not giving a damn!" Gore Vidal

Music: The Generationals, Cut Copy, Miike Snow, The Head and the Heart, Junip, Kate Nash, Jenny and Johnny, Camera Obscura, Eels, Robyn.

First bike? I don't remember the brand, but I do remember it was red BMX bike and arrived Christmas morning. I remember seeing the made in Taiwan sticker on it which made me less of a believer in where and who my presents were coming from.

Future goals? I want to feel I've reached my full potential as an athlete and continue to inspire and influence others in a positive manner.

When I'm not training I'm...Coaching a junior cross country ski program, teaching Computrainer classes (well that's kind of training) taking photos, working at a bike/ski shop.

What are you riding and why? Specialized Fate, light, fast and fun!

Something most people don't know about me...Growing up I was known more as an artist than an athlete although I enjoyed both. Sports and art are usually seen as polar opposites but I don't think that's the case. I think you can be pretty creative on a bike, how you ride, the lines you pick, what you think about and even the bike itself.