Jerri Lynn Fields, Mamaroneck, NY

Jerri Lynn Fields 

I started running in 2004, ran my first marathon in 2005 (Chicago), second marathon six months later in spring of 2006 (Nashville), completed my first triathlon in summer of 2006, ran on a team for the Reach the Beach Relay in New Hampshire in 2006 where I experienced a horrible injury, was sidelined for four months.

The attached photo is from my second triathlon, Philadelphia Women's Triathlon in 2007.  Finished in 1:37:54, compared to a 1:57 sprint triathlon finish the year before.

This summer I will compete in one more sprint triathlon, will return to New Hampshire for the Reach the Beach Relay 2007 and will do the bike leg on a relay team for the Westchester Triathlon (Olympic distance).

In my spare time I am the director of a literary arts organization and teach nonprofit management courses at a local university.  Oh, in 2003 I was a smoker and weighed 25 pounds more than I do now.  Running changed my life.  I turn 42 in two months.

Words of wisdom: Life is a journey, not a destination.  What that means to me: don't just wait to enjoy the outcome (race?) enjoy the entire training process.  If you're not enjoying the training, you're not doing it right!