→ 2017 27 day Arctic sea-kayaking expedition in Norway
→ 2015 Seattle to Alaska Bicycle Tour
→ 2014 Auburn World Toughest Half-Ironman
→ 2013 Ironman Lake Tahoe
→ 2011-12 South America Bicycle Tour (10,000 kms over 6 months)
→ 2010 Pacific Crest Trail Thru-hike (148 days)
Merits
→ 2022 One Water Race, DNF, 50 hrs on the course
→ 2019 Bringing our daughter to the world
→ 2018 American River 50 mile endurance race
→ 2017 27 day Arctic sea-kayaking expedition in Norway
→ 2015 Seattle to Alaska Bicycle Tour
→ 2014 Auburn World Toughest Half-Ironman
→ 2013 Ironman Lake Tahoe
→ 2011-12 South America Bicycle Tour (10,000 kms over 6 months)
→ 2010 Pacific Crest Trail Thru-hike (148 days)
Q&A
– What other experiences do you have that demonstrates your competence and ability to complete One Water Race?
My husband (Justin Smith) and I have competed in endurance challenges for over ten years together before having our child, Meru.
– Why do you want to participate in One Water Race?
Being part of OWR 2022 was the first endurance feat (aside from day-to-day parenting) after overcoming the physical hardships (pains of an emergency C-section never really subside) and mental battles of postpartum life while reconnecting with myself in the midst of being a mother. I am excited for another opportunity to put my skills to the test and ignore the mind, while going into a state of rhythmic movement, constantly expanding what I know to be possible physically and mentally.
– Have you taken a similar challenge before?
In 2022, I served as Navigator and Support while watching Team 7 take on island after island after island… we all had our highs and lows and I am excited to make a few tweaks to aid our team in 2024 as we have another shot at OWR.
– What are your strengths?
My mental toughness is my greatest strength. Quitting is never an option. I can exit the monkey mind and just get.it.done. I felt like I rose to the challenge of mapping the route, prepping the food, and being the loudest cheer squad…. oh and my husband loved my surprise hats each with a note of encouragement on them.
– What are your weaknesses?
My greatest weakness is second guessing my strength and abilities. I call them gremlins in my mind that tell you that you are not enough.
– What would be your biggest challenges in this race?
I have concerns about sea sickness on the boat - especially when I lose the horizon at night. The other challenge will be keeping my teammates warm and fueled in this challenging colder environment.
– Have you been to the Stockholm archipelago and what do you know/think about the terrain?
I love it! A playground for adults.
– What are you most looking forward to, if you would participate in One Water Race?
Having already experienced the pioneer race of 2022, I must say I am most looking forward to being once more immersed with the greater community that makes this race possible. One Water Race participants and support staff quickly became a family unlike any other race I have experienced. I hold this group of individuals so highly in my heart. It's an honor to work toward this epic goal once more with this incredible race crew.
And Justin knows how the electric fences work over there now so we’ve got that going for us. 😉
