Franklin resident Kristen Fisher is more than a wife, mom of two, graphic designer, and muralist - she is also an IRONMAN triathlete! In 2013, after the birth of her second daughter and with encouragement from her sister, Kristen laced up her running shoes and embarked on a life-altering adventure.
Initially deeming triathlon pursuits as outlandish, Kristen was daunted by the swim and road bike requirements (2.4-mile open water swim, 112-mile bike ride, 26.2-mile run) but discovered a supportive community in BEAT - Brentwood Endurance Athletic Team. Triumphantly completing her first full IRONMAN in 2015 fueled a dream—the pursuit of securing an invitation to compete in the prestigious IRONMAN World Championship in Kona, Hawaii.
This summer, Kristen achieved that dream, navigating challenges including solitary stretches through lava fields. Amidst the race's intensity, she felt a powerful sense of camaraderie noting, “Out there with the other athletes, you could feel a bond and sisterhood. Women were cheering each other on with high fives, hugs, and encouragement.” In town, crowds of strangers were also screaming words of encouragement to the athletes from over 75 countries. Kristen says, “This is humanity at its best. I felt like an Olympic athlete earning a gold medal.”
Beyond personal accomplishments, Kristen was thrilled her daughters were engaging with families worldwide and her husband was there providing unwavering support. After conquering seven full and six half IRONMAN events in three years, Kristen envisions new challenges—possibly ultramarathons, qualifying for the Boston Marathon, or additional IRONMAN events.
"You never know what you are capable of unless you try," says Kristen.
