46; Therapist
I LOVE CYCLING: The cycling community here in Memphis is something special! Those who have been a part of it for decades can attest to its booming growth during COVID-19, which is when I started riding, especially in the women’s cycling community. I’ve enjoyed cultivating that growth through content creation on Instagram with WMN Cyclists of the 901. Alongside a few other local cyclists we’ve published content & organized pop up rides with the intent of creating new connections and further strengthening our diverse female cycling community.
UP NEXT: Zoom through the Zoo and Harbortown 5k. BPC and Grind City Racing each have a crit series through the summer, so maybe I’ll jump in on a couple of those.
FAVE FITNESS ACCOMPLISHMENT: I think anytime I toe the line and FINISH an endurance event I’m happy! In those moments I often find strength I didn’t know I had. Successfully suffering through the physical discomfort reaffirms that I CAN carry weight and that I CAN endure with joy. Those are lessons that serve me well in my everyday life.
HOMETOWN: Atoka
SPEED BUMPS: Grief can take the wind out of your sails. After losing my best friend in 2022 and then my mom suddenly in 2023 I really struggled with apathy. But I recognize that movement is medicine, even “heart medicine” at times. We have to keep moving. One foot in front of the other, one pedal stroke at a time. I’m forever grateful for those who never stopped patiently encouraging me, especially during the dreary winter months.
MY GROUP: I am not an official member of any teams, although I enjoy riding with all of them!
RECENT RACES: St. Jude Half Marathon. Sylamore 25k. Regional One Health – One Mile Championship, 1st AG.
GO-TO GEAR: Hand warmers for those cold race days!
MOST MEMORABLE FITNESS EVENT: In December 2022 I created and participated in “Basecamp for Bev: An Everesting Challenge,” a 14,515 ft. virtual climbing challenge benefiting West Cancer Foundation in honor of my best friend, Beverly Ellis, who had recently passed away from cancer. With the help of 20 cyclists and countless volunteers, we pedaled 8+ hours and collected thousands in donations.
BEST EATS: City Silo – Sunshine Burrito Bowl with fried egg
INSPIRATION TO BE FIT: Life is a precious gift, so my goal is to be the healthiest version of myself I can be, mentally and physically, so I can feel good and stay present for those who depend on me.
Photo by Tindall Stephens
