Athlete Profile: Jill Kuhn
Athlete: Jill Kuhn
Lives City/State: Spring, TX
Go to Orange Mud Gear: Endurance Pack/Adventure Pack
Primary Sport: Trail Running/Ultra Running/Triathlon
Bio
I am a wife and a mom of four very active boys. We spend most of our time outdoors with sports, swimming, hiking, etc.
What sports do you participate in?
I love triathlon! Running and swimming are my favorite. I am hoping I will learn to love the bike eventually.
What is your favorite race food?
It depends on the race! During Ironman Texas nothing in the world tasted better than watermelon. During Rocky Raccoon 50 miler the grilled cheese was to die for! Lol!
What is your go to hydration mix?
Honestly, I drink blue Powerade. That is what works best for me!
Do you have a major quirk you’d like to share?
I am addicted to Nerds…..the candy. Lol! I just can’t help myself.
If you were related to an animal, what would it be?
Hmmm…. I would love to say graceful like a gazelle, sly like a fox, and speedy like a cheetah. But I’d totally be lying! Ha!! What is an animal that is persistent and never gives up? Maybe stubborn like a mule!
If a newbie to your sport asked for one piece of advice, what would it be?
Have fun! So often we get caught up in our goals and forget to have a good time and enjoy the scenery! Have a blast out there! Smile!!
Do you have any racing pet peeves? (Gel packets, mud, thorns, smelly runners, etc).
Not being courteous to others. We’re all out there together! Let’s get it done and have a good time!
What do you do for fun?
My favorite family past time is hiking with all my guys – remember I have a hubby and four boys! We NEED to be outside! My fun time is all spent training and that is what really makes me happy!
What is your post race ritual?
I don’t really have one. My family typically meets me at the finish line and we celebrate together.
How long have you been running?
I ran off and on my whole life, but didn’t begin running consistently or training until I was in my late 30’s. I ran my first race at 37.
Why do you enjoy the sport?
It gives me quiet time which is a rare thing for me lol. It is something I do for myself that I believe makes me a better wife and a better mother.
I really love and treasure the relationships I have made thru sport as well.
What's your favorite trail race?
I think I would have to say Copper Mountain. It was extremely difficult for me. I was nicknamed “Flatlander” on the course. Ha! But despite the challenges it was very rewarding.
What's your favorite local trail?
I live just south of Huntsville State Park and I love getting to go up there to run or hike the trails.
What's your go to piece of Orange Mud gear and why?
I love the Endurance Pack. It is light and comfortable, keeps my fluids cool, and has plenty of storage. On longer races or outings I love my Adventure Pack!
Profession and educational background?
I went to Baylor University and received my undergraduate degree in Psychology. I received my Master’s Degree in Education from the University of Pittsburgh.
What is your biggest accomplishment in your sport?
I completed Ironman Texas 140.6 last April. More recently I just completed a 50 mile ultra, I am registered for a 100k, and I have my sites on a 100 miler!
Do you have a set training schedule and if so, what's it like? If not, how do you decide what to do?
I definitely need a training plan! I need a race on the books too so I have something to work towards!
What's your dream race?
I would love to do all the World Marathon Majors one day! Leadville is on my bucket list. And if I am dreaming I would love to do Ironman Kona!!
Favorite book for athletes?
Scott Jurek Born to Run was a great one!
Do you listen to audiobooks or music during exercise?
I listen to music and on long runs I like to mix it up with a podcast!
What advice would you give to a new runner coming into the sport?
Keep your eye on the goal, but also remember to smile and have fun! You GET to do this!! Enjoy it!!
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
It may sound cliché but I get my inspiration from my boys. I want to be an example to them. I want them to grow up with a love of the outdoors, a love for the sport, and a confidence in themselves knowing anything is possible!
Have you struggled with any injuries? How do you manage them?
I suffer from Rheumatoid Arthritis. It slows me down, but it does not stop me. It really has changed my entire perspective on the sport. I went from first in AG to overall last place. And as hard as I work for just a finish now I am super proud when I do cross that finish line!
Anything else you’d like to share?
We all have our battles it’s how we choose to deal with them that defines us. If you dream it, you CAN do it! Don’t let anything hold you back!
What was the best advice you were ever given?
SMILE! Whether you’re in pain or having a blast just smile! It makes all the difference!
What is your favorite local running or biking store?
Truthfully I order everything online! Ha!
Social
@ironwillironjill
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ironwillironjill/
Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/ironwillironjill/
Blog: www.ironwillironjill.com