I competed in my 1st Triathlon in June 2012 at the age of 43. I met Karyn not long after that and started training with her in February 2014. As is common for many athletes, especially women who may have taken time off to go to school, start a career and raise a family, until my 40’s, I had not participated in any competitive athletic activity since high school! Karyn provided me with a manageable training schedule that didn’t get in the way of family and work obligations.

Over the past 4 years, I have been able to achieve a level of success as an age-group athlete while balancing work and family that I never imagined could be possible. But probably most importantly, I have gained an amazing friend who inspires me, keeps it “real” and fun and always makes me laugh.

Just to highlight a few things that have happened under Karyn’s coaching:

• 2015 and 2016 St. Anthony’s Sprint Masters Female Champion
• 2016 and 2017 AG All-American, F45-49
• 2017 and 2018 Team USA Triathlon member
• 2017 World ITU Draft Legal Sprint Championships, AG 45-49, 28th overall (6th American)
• 2017 3rd place AG 45-49 Draft Legal Sprint Qualifier for Worlds 2018, Gold Coast, Australia
• 2018 USA Triathlon Ambassador (one of 44 AG Team USA members in the country); Karyn is a Team Captain

As a coach and friend, Karyn has helped me through some difficult times including the sudden death of my father 3 weeks after being diagnosed with metastatic cancer and two potentially career ending eye surgeries. I am prone to running-related injuries and struggle with knee arthritis and posterior tibial tendinitis which is one reason I transitioned to triathlon, and Karyn has been able to modify and adjust my training to recover from and avoid these training-related injuries. Say what you will about slowing down with age, but Karyn has proven that this does not need to be the case! She has certainly helped me get faster and stronger in my swim and bike while maintaining my speed in running.

Karyn’s approach to coaching is probably similar to her approach to life which is not to take yourself too seriously, to practice gratitude, to have a sense of humor always, and that set backs are temporary and can always be overcome. She is able to provide encourage when needed but isn’t the kind of person who lets you feel sorry for yourself. I find her approach to be the perfect balance for anyone who is motivated to challenge themselves and have fun at the same time.

I can hardly believe it has been only 4 years. I never thought I would be so excited to turn 50! I really could go on and on, but if you want to experience truly spectacular coaching and gain a great friend while doing so, you need to hire this coach!

Sharon B.