USA Fit Seattle Coaches
| ATP | Yellow | Red | Orange | Purple |
| Click on a color group above to see the list of coaches for that group. | ||||
| Advanced Training Program | ||
| Anne Szeto Head Coach I spent the majority of my youth participating in a variety of athletic teams and activities. Growing up in NYC, I was on the track and ultimate teams in high school and volleyball in college. My subsequent post-college years involved eating (and drinking) out and late nights as I attempted to simultaneously climb the corporate ladder and attend graduate school. Suffice it to say, I became stressed out and unhealthy. After a really honest conversation with myself, I started going to the gym and took yoga and pilates classes. A year later, I decided that I needed to do more. I started running around the Central Park Reservoir and decided to quit smoking. In 2008, I started training for the NYC Marathon with a fairly well-known coach four times a week. Then the unthinkable happened. I got a pelvic stress fracture while trying to break a PR because my hamstring literally pulled and broke my bone. After moving to Seattle and taking four months off from all physical activity, I found Seattle Fit. Training with Seattle Fit prepared me for my first half (2009 Mercer Island) and first full marathon (2009 Seattle Rock n Roll.) That following summer, I joined the Advanced Training Program. Through the support of my coach and team members (and a little bit of hard work and Advil,) I finished the 2009 Las Vegas Marathon. I look forward to helping others through their firsts (and seconds and thirds, for that matter.) | ||
| Beth Pirrong Head Coach I have been a part time runner as long as I can remember. I would run for a while (sometimes years) and then not run for a while (sometimes years!). But always in the back of my mind, I had the goal of completing a marathon. I started training twice but was derailed each time. And then a friend at work mentioned that he was going to run a marathon – and that he was training with Seattle Fit. He finished his marathon, and I started down the path to training for my marathon with Seattle Fit. What a change! Great coaches, group camaraderie, interesting runs, it was a great experience and I was able to complete my first marathon AND I enjoyed it! I have been bit by the marathon bug; I look forward to my training runs and working with the Seattle Fit groups. I am excited to be involved with the ATP team as they work to achieve their personal bests in the marathon and I am thrilled to help others accomplish their goals. | ||
| Yellow Group | ||
| Lee Haynes SeattleFitYellowCoach@hotmail.com Head Coach A good athlete decades ago, years of infrequent exercise took a toll. I joined Seattle Fit in June 2004 as a Purple Walker unsure if I could complete a half or full marathon. After following the program for several months a funny thing happened, exercise actually got easier and for the first time in decades I started to jog just a little bit too. Completing my first full, the 2004 Seattle Marathon was a great experience. I absolutely could not have done it without the knowledge gained from and support of this program. In 2005 I became a Red runner completing several halves and the full 2005 Seattle Marathon. In 2006 I had enough speed and became a Yellow Runner. Early in the season our head coach had a season ending injury I became the head coach of an awesome group of runners. Ever since then I’ve been a Yellow coach and definitely enjoy helping others preparing for and completing their half and full marathon goals. I have met a lot of great people through running! Besides completing the Seattle Marathon every year since 2004, other marathons I have run are the Vancouver BC Marathon, the Portland marathon, the inaugural Seattle Rock and Roll Marathon and the San Antonio Rock and Roll Marathon. I have completed 10 full marathons and more halfs than I can remember, each time a little easier, each with something learned from the training, the camaraderie with other runners as well as each marathon itself. Regardless of time/speed, completing a marathon is a huge accomplishment. I will complete more marathons, never as the fastest but always proud of accomplishing something many don not even try. Bravo to all those that do! | ||
| Bill Ralph Assistant Coach Years of office life and dwindling time spent to personal activities like running, backpacking and biking let me slip from a rather robust athlete (aka weekend warrior) to your common middle age out-of-shaper. I took up Seattle fit in 2007 specifically to reverse that course. From past marathons I knew that to complete the 2007 Seattle Marathon it would take dedicated time, effort and the right training so as not to injure myself. Seattle Fit met that goal to a tee. The program is laid out in a way that I could work it into my busy week and not have to worry about whether I thought I was getting the right type or amount of training. The program fits experienced marathon runners as well as those that may not have run any distance runs. Even after running more then two dozen marathons I learned a thing or two with the Seattle Fit program. The point to remember with Seattle Fit is that there is a dedication on the part of the (non-professional) coaching team, to get you to your goal, - be it completing your first+ marathon or just getting in a healthy and good running or walking shape. Plus, doing it in a safe and friendly environment. I look forward to sharing running experiences with all new and returning Seattle fit members. See you on the trail as part of Seattle Fit. | ||
| Kristina Kelley Assistant Coach I joined Seattle Fit in 2008 with the goal of meeting new people with common interests. I was unsure about running that the Marathon - thinking I might not be ready for it - but I had run plenty of short-distance races and some half marathons so I left the idea open. Within a few weeks I knew there was no way I was going to train with all these great new people I had met and not run the full distance, so I did. Within 1 year I have successfully run 5 marathons, including New York City. My most recent race (Seattle 2009) was the most rewarding as I qualified for the Boston Marathon. Many well-known distance coaches and runners have said: \'A marathon gives an ordinary person the opportunity to do something extraordinary.\' Running a long-distance race is not only extraordinary, it is empowering and leaves you feeling like there is nothing you cannot do. That mindset doesn\'t just apply to running - it spills over into every day life as well. That is what keeps me training for the next race! | ||
| Shannon Rich Assistant Coach I never used to see myself as a runner. Sure, I had completed the occasional 5k and 10k race, but I had never been interested in a real training program. Then, a few years back, I realized that a Marathon sounded like a challenge that I wanted to take on. I began to exercise on a regular schedule, but I knew that I needed support to get me through all 26.2 miles. I discovered Seattle Fit, and since then I have not turned back. I have run both the Seattle Marathon and the Rock-n-Roll Seattle; this will be my 3rd season with Seattle Fit (and first as a coach). I am looking forward to sharing my experiences and encouraging all of our members to reach their goal and enjoy the journey. Seattle Fit gives me the motivation to lace up my shoes for every run, and our Saturday gatherings bring me the energy and friendship to get through every mile. The challenge of running 13.1 or 26.2 is a daunting task, but the thrill and joy after crossing the finish line is worth all the work. Seattle Fit will get you there! | ||
| Red Group | ||
| Diana Ensenat Head Coach I have been with USA Fit for five seasons now. I never thought of myself as a runner but over time, and after four half marathons, I think I may have become one (yikes!). I started training for my first half marathon because a friend of mine (who was an assistant coach) talked me into it. I had not run more than 3 miles prior to that and did not really care for running. I never expected that I would be able to finish 13.1 miles but I did and it was all due to this running program. We are average (but awesome) people with jobs, kids, responsibilities that meet on Saturdays to encourage each other in attaining our running goals. I am looking forward to another coaching season with Seattle Fit, to make new friends and see old ones and to watch and support all in achieving fitness and running goals. | ||
| Cathy Wright Assistant Coach I joined Seattle Fit as a walker in 2007, mainly to get in better shape after I had trouble keeping up with my husband on a 2 mile hike. The following season I was an assistant coach for the Purple walking group. It looked like the Seattle Fit runners were having just as much fun as the walkers. I decided to give running a try for the first time since I was forced to run around a track in 8th grade gym class. So far I have run or walked the Seattle Half Marathon, the Las Vegas Half Marathon, the Seattle Rock n Roll Half Marathon and several 5Ks and 10Ks. I was an assistant coach for the Red Team last season am looking forward to being an assistant coach for the Red Team again this season. | ||
| Craig Wood Assistant Coach I started running seriously in 2006 when I joined Seattle Fit to train for my first marathon. That positive experience really carried me through the long runs and even the short ones. Since that time I have run 2 additional marathons and more than 30 half marathons. I have made numerous friends through Seattle Fit during the last few years and always look forward to coming back every season. It is really enjoyable watching everyone improve and accomplish their goals. Seattle Fit taught me that running truly is a team sport. | ||
| Ellen Taylor Assistant Coach I’ve been a runner for most of my adult life and it’s truly my best self-care and stress-management instrument. Other than a 5K here and there, my first organized long run was the Hood-to-Coast in 1996. At that point, 5 miles felt like a very long run for me! I completed my first Half Marathon in Seattle in 2005 and repeated it (although more slowly) in 2006. Moving to Seattle and starting a new job derailed my long-distance training for a while, but I had always wanted to complete a full marathon and when the Rock & Roll came to Seattle, I knew it was time. I joined Seattle Fit and with the help of this organization, I completed my first Full Marathon in June 2009. The Half Marathon distance works better for my busy life, but I’m so glad to have completed 26.2 at least once! I look forward to sharing my love of running and helping others achieve their important personal running goals. | ||
| Jill Van Andel Assistant Coach I started running with Seattle Fit and running long distances in 2005. Since 2005 I have completed three full marathons and eight half marathons. Some of the races I have completed include the Inagural Rock & Roll Seattle Marathon, Las Vegas Marathon, Disneyland Half Marathon (2006 & 2007) and the Seattle Half & Full Marathon. I think everyone should have fun while they are out running. It\'s great to challenge yourself and put a lot of effort into your training for your next event, but make sure you take time to enjoy the training as well. With Seattle Fit you will likely make some new friends and have some fun as we encourage each other and train for the great 2010 Seattle Rock & Roll event. | ||
| Leslie Jensen Assistant Coach I started running as a way to stay in shape during the mountain biking off season. I ran off and on for a couple of years before deciding I should try something a bit more challenging. But, I knew if I was going to run any real distance I would need some serious help. In 2008 I joined Seattle Fit and finished the Seattle Half Marathon. I came back for the 2009 season and finished the inaugural Rock & Roll Seattle Half Marathon and the Seattle Marathon. There is no way I would have made it without my Saturday morning peeps – they were awesome! I have also gotten it in my head that triathlons are fun and finished 3 local sprint triathlons in 2009 and planning more for 2010. I am looking forward to spending my Saturday mornings with another great group of Seattle Fit runners and watching all of us achieve our athletic goals. | ||
| Mark Carr Assistant Coach I have been running off and on my whole life, though never formally. I did my first Half Marathon (The Seattle Marathon) 5 or 6 years ago and, until The Rock n Roll Half in June 2009, filled the time with various local 5k & 10k runs and a sprint triathlon. My major motivators for getting back on the wagon last year was an expanding waistline and a 333 cholesterol level. Now 30 pounds lighter and cholesterol at around 40 I am excited to share my experiences and the running path with each of you. | ||
| Mark Osaki Assistant Coach I began running with Seattle Fit two years ago in their off-season and was extremely impressed with the structure, people involved, and what Seattle Fit stands for. It is designed to not only improve your running ability, but it also allows you to create and to accomplish personal goals. I have always been active in a variety of sports and have recently been drawn to running. In the past two years, I have participated in 3 half marathons, 4 full marathons, including the Eugene, Portland, Spokane, and Seattle Marathon, and have also run in two team events; the Bellingham Ski to Sea and the Ragner Relay. I feel privileged to be a part of the Seattle Fit team, and I am thrilled to help people accomplish their own goals. There is no better feeling then crossing the finish line in your first race...and participating in Seattle Fit is the first step! | ||
| Mike Lee Assistant Coach I have always been a runner. I started way back in high school running cross country. Then I used my running as a way to relieve stress when I entered the working world and of course to try to stay in shape. I trained with Seattle Fit 1 year ago in preparation for the Rock N Roll ˝ Marathon. Needless to say I could not have done it without the group support. My time? 2:04. I want to be a Coach to help those who do not think they can do it. You can do it! I may not be the fastest runner out there on Saturday but I am going to give it my all. I hope to see you out there and believe me it helps when you run with a group. We can help motivate each other to accomplish whatever your goals are. Mine is to beat last years time. | ||
| Orange Group | ||
| Crystal Boyce Head Coach I have always loved running/jogging. I grin to myself often, wondering if I get the same joy a dog feels when going for a walk. There is something magical about the stress relief you get, wind in your face, fresh air, lookie-looing at your neighbors, building your muscles and spending time on yourself. I joined Seattle Fit to recover from a foot fracture in late 2008 with the walk-to-run group. The structured program and gradual increase in mileage was perfect to rebuild my muscles and get me back in shape. I ran my first half marathon that season. The support and routine gave me all the motivation I needed. It is so amazing what your body can do if you give it time, care and challenge. This will be my second season guiding the walk to run group and I am looking forward to helping new friends cross the finish line in June at the Rock N Roll event! | ||
| Deborah Worthington Assistant Coach I joined Seattle Fit after I decided to return to running and pursue the goal of a half-marathon. My previous running experience consisted of a few 5Ks and a 10K several years ago, and I wondered if I could complete the training to accomplish a longer distance event. I found I enjoyed the structure, the camaraderie of the coaches and runners, and the motivation the program provides. Even after taking some time off to recover from injury, I was able to complete the inaugural Seattle Rock n Roll Half Marathon last summer. There is nothing quite like seeing the mental and physical progress that you make as you rack up the miles through training; as a previous coach said to me, “remember when four miles seemed hard?” There’s also nothing quite like the collective jubilation when you finish your event and I look forward to continuing coaching others to reach their finish line. | ||
| Purple Group | ||
| Cathy Stone Head Coach I have been walking all my life and would be crushed if I could not walk. Yeah, I have big thighs but I think about all the places these legs have taken me. I have been to the top of Mt Rainier, walked the Portland Marathon 2.5 times and Seattle once, walked in countless Half Marathons and I do a lot of the fun runs around Seattle. I started out volunteering at a lot of the local races as a way to do the race but not having to pay for the races. If you do enough of them they add up. I now work with several race directors and a timing company and have met some great people. Besides the Rock n Roll Half Marathon this year I have also completed the St Patrick\'s Day Dash, Bloomsday in Spokane and and Bay to Breakers in San Francisco. If you have never done B2B I highly recommend it. I have plans to run/walk another Inaugural Half Marathon in Florida later this year and of course Seattle. I have been part of Seattle Fit for a couple of sessions now. The first time was my first Seattle half marathon in 2005. I trained for the full with Lee the Yellow Head Coach coach but got pneumonia the week of the event and went with the Half instead. Then I came back in January 2009 to train for the Inaugural Rock n Roll event. I have to keep up now because my next big lofty goal is to climb Kilimanjaro in 2011. | ||
| Joan Huddlestone Assistant Coach I have walked for lots of years as I always had dogs and they walked EVERY day! I belonged to the Boeing gym and then about 2002 joined 24 Hour Fitness. I began gaining weight but was still going to the gym and walking a borrowed dog. About a year ago a friend suggested that I try to walk the Seattle Half Marathon and I thought it was an absurd idea but a few months later I found myself surfing Seattle Marathon which led me to Seattle Fit. It seemed the perfect thing to do and I began last July 2009. I was nervous at first but everything seemed to just work out. I enjoyed the walks and felt such accomplishment and relaxation after each Saturday walk and from the weekly training walks. And so I completed the Seattle Half Marathon on November 29, 2009! It was something I never thought I would do but I did! I am so grateful to Paul and my coaches at Seattle Fit for which to me felt like a great accomplishment. I am looking forward to our new season, to being in better shape and healthier and helping others achieve their goals. | ||
