Each week, we'll be profiling members of our action team. Tune in and learn some more about these amazing womyn.

In Their Shoes: Kristen B

Q1: Who are you? Describe your work, life, and sport of choice.

I’m Kristen Byers and I live in Washington, DC. I work at the University of Maryland as a Digital Content Strategist and I am finishing up my master’s degree in Human-Computer Interaction. 

Q2: What is your sport of choice? How did you get started with it? Do you compete in races, if so what's your favorite distance?

I am a retired roller derby skater who discovered distance running following ACL reconstruction surgery. I was cleared to run months before I was cleared to skate, and the rest is history. I ran my first half marathon in 2016 and my first full marathon in 2019. I plan to tackle my first ultramarathon in the fall of this year. I love taking racecations to new destinations and my favorite race distance (so far) is the 10-miler.

Q3: What is your driving force behind your sport?

I love running because I only have to depend on myself. I enjoy team sports and group fitness classes, but I prefer to run by myself. There’s something very cathartic about putting one foot in front of the other alone for an extended period of time.  

Q4: What are three words that people use to describe you?

Neat, focused, badass

Q5: What is your favorite thing to listen to while working out (music, podcast, audiobook, etc)...or do you prefer to go without headphones?

My go-to running playlist consists of Disney music and show tunes. Laugh if you want, but it helps me keep things light hearted even on the toughest runs.

Q6: What is your favorite meal or recipe?

This Instant Pot Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta recipe is my tried and true pre-race dinner.

Q7: Name a book you recommend to all your friends?

This is a tough one because I am a voracious reader, but I think my favorite book I've read so far this year is Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo. 

Q8: What is your secret pleasure TV show to indulge in?

The Handmaid’s Tale.

Q9: Last question - what are your favorite workout shoes?

I have run in ASICS Gel-Kayanos for a number of years now, and I like the ASICS Gel-DS trainers for general fitness endeavors.