Name: Kelly Hadiaris

When you started in TRIgirl: April 2008.

Why you TRIgirl:
I started competing in triathlons after learning to swim and cycle following an injury that kept me from running for several months. I continue with the sport because I love the variety it offers and the successful feeling that comes from achieving goals.  Triathlon gives me much more than an outlet for my cardio addiction.  It also improves my mental toughness, adaptability and life balance skills.  I enjoy being a part of Trigirls for many reasons.  With the help of Trigirls, I've made significant progress and learned a lot about the sport very quickly.  The clinics, large network of training friends and coaches have been a wealth of knowledge.  I went from being terrified of my bike on a 6 mile loop to looking forward to long weekend rides with friends.   The tremendous support by fellow Trigirls at the races is also a bonus, especially along the course and being greeted at the finish. 

Your family (or with whom do you reside?):
My wonderful and supportive husband, Nick.  He races cars for fun, but I think he'll try a sprint triathlon next year.

What do you do for work?
I have dedicated the past year helping to build a start up division as a commercial liability underwriter for an excess and surplus lines insurance company.

The best meal you cook:
I can make a delicious fettuccine alfredo with steak tips, garlic bread and salad. The best dessert I can make is baklava. It takes a full day to make baklava, so that's a once a year event.

What you'll be seen wearing most frequently:
Pinstripes and comfortable dress shoes.

Favorite quote:
“Wine is constant proof that God loves us and loves to see us happy.”- Benjamin Franklin

What you are reading now?
I love to read and I will read just about anything.  Right now I'm in the middle of two books:  “Bringing Down the House” by Ben Mezrich and of course the TG book club pick, “Barefoot” by Elin Hilderbrand.  I've read most of the book club books- I just never seem to be able to make it to the meetings!  I also just finished “A Chant to Soothe Wild Elephants,” by Jaed Coffin, an old high school friend.

Current favorite CD or IPOD download:
I'm behind the times. I do not own an Ipod. I listen to whatever is on the radio or XM.

Something you have accomplished in your life that you thought you could/would have not been able to do (not triathlon):
When I was a college kid I decided to study abroad in Australia for 5 months. I'm still proud that I was able to make that happen, travel alone and have some incredible adventures while I was there.

Your indulgences:
Starbucks coffee, especially pumpkin spice lattes.

Goals for the 2008 season:
The 2008 season has winded down and was a great year.  Now, I'm looking ahead to 2009 and hope to be able to complete an Ironman. It's overwhelming to think about right now, but if I take care of myself and follow the plan I'm confident I'll be able to do it. 

Favorite race and why::
My favorite race so far has been the Angels Race in Lynchburg , VA.   That was the first triathlon I ever completed and it was perfect.  Being able to race in honor of your “Angel” adds another dimension to the race.  The spirit of the event itself and the camaraderie among all athletes was incredible.  The race was scenic with some challenging hills.  Plus, my husband kept popping up in the most unexpected places taking photos.