February Athlete Spotlight - Meet Irene Lopez

Meet this month's Athlete Spotlight -- Irene Lopez! Irene is a passionate athlete and friend. Her drive for excellence is inspiring, both in and outside of workouts. Check out the Q & A with Irene:

Age: 57

Occupation: Registered Nurse, Exercise Physiologist

How long have you been swimming, cycling, running, and/or doing triathlons?

My first triathlon was a relay in 2006. I loved the environment, and was hooked! I had started cycling at that time, and decided to train for triathlons as an individual. I originally come from a soccer background, including Olympic Development from 1985 to 1989. Needless to say, I love to compete!

What aspects of training and/or racing do you enjoy most?

I love the spent feeling after an event! I like looking at results and learning from them.

What has been your favorite training or racing event, and why? 2 answers: The 2006 Shiner BASH was my first century ride. The 2019 National Senior games tri was so much fun!

What is your favorite post-workout or race meal?

Post long ride of the week: one chorizo and egg with bean taco and one 12oz Michelob Ultra. Post event, I'm usually not very hungry.

What is one recent accomplishment you are proud of?

I recently started a YouTube channel about health, wellness, fitness, and nutrition, with a focus on women dealing with menopause.

What do you want to be when you grow up?

I don't know "what" I want to be, but I know "who" I want to be, and that's Laura Croft from the first Tomb Raider movie!

What is something no one knows about you?

I can wiggle my ears.

Why do you race/train?

I've always been competitive. I started playing soccer when I was nine... always wanted to win. Years later I'm still competitive, but I'm now more interested in besting myself and being better. And I still like the feeling of competing.

#athletespotlight #pursuitofexcellence #sufferfaster

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