Team NOW

Chuck Patterson

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Bettina Breckenfeld

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Barry Nobles

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Kit Karzen

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Julia Lafranchise

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Olivia Dillon

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Beth Newell

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Robin Farina

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Christina Gokey-Smith

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Addy Albershardt

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Anne Samplonius

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Devon Gorry

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Collin Berry

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Ivy LeDonne

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Cam Zink

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Jordan Romero

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Ashley Kumlien

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Chris Barnes

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Tyler Lawless

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Jamey Yon

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Elle Keoghan

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Ty Loomis

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Ryan Flanagan

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Chuck Patterson

What are your goals for 2012?

I am gearing up for a very busy, exciting 2012 season focusing on several projects and competitions in a variety of different sports. I plan on doing a couple long distance paddles in international waters (location to be announced). I'm also excited to be working on a few film & photo projects for snow skiing and snowboarding in Alaska and North America, as well as surfing, stand up paddle surfing, tow surfing and pushing wave skiing in the big waves of Hawaii, Mexico and the West coast. Switching it up a bit; I wrote and directed my first Adventure sports film on stand up paddling called "H2O Indo," set to be released early 2012 and I'm working on my 2nd one which we plan on shooting the start of this year. In addition to my adventure sports projects, I plan on competing in 6 World stand up paddle events and the Battle of the Paddle World Championships. I will also be launching my new improved multi sport website chuckpattersonsports.com by 2012.

How are you preparing differently for this upcoming year versus 2011?

In 2011 I had a couple setbacks; plagued with a few injuries and a bad staph infection that put me out for 3 months. It was a huge challenge to come back from, but with a tough training schedule and a change in diet, I managed to finish the year off strong and healthy with a of couple major wins. In preparation for a very busy and demanding 2012 season, I have expanded my vigorous training schedule to 2-3 work outs a day, 6 days a week, as well as training with a couple of new coaches on experimental training methods to ensure a stronger/healthier season for competing and film projects.

What events/competitions are you looking forward to the most for 2012?

I am really looking forward to exploring and expanding on the business side of things with my sports and continuing to push myself in competition in skiing, big wave surfing and stand up paddling. I also look forward to a stronger, healthier year traveling, competing, filming and exploring the unknown around the world.

Bettina Breckenfeld

I guess you could say I was born into a family of explorers. My Dad was a Sea Captain, my Mom was one of the first female Wireless Radio Operators on the same tanker and my sister a member of the first all-women's team to ski to the South Pole. It just so happens I was reading Phil Keoghan's book "No Opportunity Wasted" when my sister suggested that her and I along with a group of college friends climb Mt Kilimanjaro to raise funds for charity. I had picked up the book because I felt like I needed inspiration to do something out of my comfort zone as I approach 50 and my only child leaves the nest. Once I told my sister I was in, I was flooded with excuses; I can't afford it; I probably can't get the time off of work and I didn't know if I can tackle such a lofty goal of climbing to the top of a mountain... and the excuses went on and on. I kept turning to Phil's book and about 2/3 of the way through I put the book aside and thought to myself I simply cannot waste this opportunity! Doing it for charity made me realize that I had to make it to the top. Not just for myself but also for the opportunity to help others in need...this became my true inspiration to reach the summit. Each woman chose a charity and using Phil Keoghan and what he does for in philanthropy for the National MS Society as inspiration, I decided to concentrate my fundraising efforts on behalf of The Unforgettable's Foundation (www.theunforgettables.com ) and the Midnight Mission in Los Angeles ( www.midnightmission.org ). I hope to also use my affiliation with NOW Energy Bars as a vehicle for building on fundraising and awareness for these two great organizations.

Barry Nobles

What are your goals for 2012?

Make the USA Olympic Team and leave London with a medal.

How are you preparing differently for this upcoming year versus 2011?

Still doing the same thing just pushing harder with that goal getting closer and closer.

What events/competitions are you looking forward to the most for 2012?

The whole ABA season will be good. The ABA puts together a great schedule every year. Mainly looking forward to the Supercross season and only a few more races till Olympic qualifying. Its a fun chance but I can't wait till the time is here...

Kit Karzen

What are your goals for the 2012 season?

My goals for 2012 include qualifying for the London Olympic Games, USA Elite Track National Championships and USA U23 Road National Championships.

What events/races are looking forward to the most for 2012?

What I am looking forward to most this season are Tulsa Tough - Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA Elite Track Nationals and the Pan Am Championships - Argentina.

What did you learn from last season that will help you progress in the upcoming season?

"When the going gets tough, the tough get going".

Julia Lafranchise

What are your goals for the 2012 season?

I want to push myself to my fullest potential, get some results and most of all have fun!

What events/races are you looking forward to the most for 2012?

I am looking forward to racing more of the NRC (National Racing Calendar) races this year. It will be a big step up and a huge learning process, but I am up for the challenge.

What did you learn from last season that will help you progress in the upcoming season?

I found out that resting is very important. Instead of racing every weekend I'll be looking to do specific races and capitalize on them.

Olivia Dillon

Beth Newell

Robin Farina

Date of Birth: September 3, 1977
Year Went Pro: 2008
Hometown: Nashville, TN
Current Residence: Charlotte, NC

How it all began: My dad taught me to ride a bike when I was very little. I started mountain biking first after a knee injury. Found my calling to road cycling. Enjoyed it so much I put my heart and soul into it until I made it on a pro team.

Why I'm proud to be a NOW and Novartis for MS rider: I know several people living with MS though our local MS Society. I am very excited about the opportunity to race with this team and more importantly for a good cause!

Career Highlights: 2011 USA Cycling National Road Champion
Currently ranked 11th in the NRC Individual Standings
Four top-10 GC finishes in NRC stage races in 2010

2011 Top Results:
Polka Dot Climbers Jersey - Nature Valley GP 2011 Cannon Falls Road Race
4th Cascade Classic 2011 Awbrey Butte Circuit Race
4th Tour of Elk 2011 Grove Overall
5th Tour of Elk 2011 Grove Time Trial
7th Tour de Toona 2011 Downtown Time Trial
7th Presbyterian Hospital Invitational Criterium 2011
10th Tour de Toona 2011 Final GC
12th Tour of Elk 2011 Grove Criterium
13th Cascade Classic 2011 Final GC
15th National Time Trial Championships 2011
15th Tour of Elk 2011 Grove Road Race
16th Cascade Classic 2011 McKenzie Pass Road Race
20th Cascade Lake Road Race 2011

2010 Top Results:
1st Airforce Cycling Classic
2nd US 10k
3rd San Dimas Prologue Uphill TT
5th Overall Joe Martin Stage Race
5th Altoona Criterium
6th Overall Tour of the Gila
9th Overall GC Redlands Bicycle Classic

Cycling strengths: Team leader, GC rider, lead-out specialist

Favorite training ride: Blowing Rock to Banner Elk and back around, a challenging 50+ mile loop

Favorite breakfast: 2 eggs, grits, sausage and toast

Favorite off the bike activities: Yoga, coaching, triathlons and duathlons

Favorite book: The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein

Favorite band: U2

You might be surprised to learn:

I own my own bike shop
I love to do triathlons
I want to race cars at some point in my life

Christina Gokey-Smith

Date of Birth: November 28, 1973
Year Went Pro: 2008
Hometown: Ft. Worth, TX
Current Residence: Denton, TX

How it all began: My dad taught me to ride a bike when I was 2. I've been involved in athletics my entire life, competing in track and field, cross-country and basketball. Along with cycling, I've competed and coached riders in the equestrian field for over 20 years.

Why I'm proud to be a NOW and Novartis for MS rider: I hope to increase awareness about MS. I am honored to socialize and offer emotional support for those that are facing the significant challenges that come with MS.

Top Results:
1st Jesuit Ranger Roundup Road Race 2011
1st Tour of New Braunfels Road Race 2011
1st Tulsa Tough Pro Women Omnium 2011
2nd Tulsa Tough Blue Dome Criterium 2011
2nd Redlands Bicycle Classic Road Race 2011
2nd Roswell Criterium 2011
2nd Walburg Classic Road Race 2011
3rd San Dimas Stage Race Road Race 2011
3rd Terrapin Twilight Criterium 2011
4th Sunny Hill Criterium 2011
5th San Dimas Stage Race Criterium 2011
5th Foothills Road Race 2011
2008 Texas Best All Around Rider (including men)
5th St. Paul Criterium NVGP 2011
7th Liberty Classic 2011
8th Menomonie RR NVGP 2011

Cycling strengths: Sprinting

Favorite training ride: The "plunge" in Asheville, NC and any dirt roads

Favorite breakfast: Oatmeal with fruit

Favorite training foods: Egg white protein drink and a natural Coke

Favorite off the bike activities: Horse riding and training, mountain biking, spending time with my husband and my three Pitt Bulls

Favorite band: Super Suckers, Willie Nelson

Favorite movie: The Wizard of Oz

You might be surprised to learn:

I jumped horses professionally
I was a platinum blonde
I was an aspiring actress

Addyson Albershardt

Date of Birth: August 20, 1994
Years Racing: 7
Current Residence: Charlotte, NC
Nicknames: Addy, Baby Pro

How it all began: My dad taught me how to ride a 2-foot-high pink Barbie bike with no training wheels when I was 6. The women's cycling team from Lees McRae stayed at my house a lot, I admired them, and I wanted to be a future pro, just like them.

Why I'm proud to be a NOW and Novartis for MS rider: I feel honored to be riding in support of MS because I am riding for a greater cause, and I can help someone who needs the support. I hope to help the Swart MS Foundation in honor of Carla Swart. She was a tremendous mentor for me and I feel like I can help other people in honor of her.

2011 Top Results:
1st USA Cycling Junior National Track Championships - Team Pursuit
1st USA Cycling Junior National Track Championships - Individual Pursuit
2nd USA Cycling Junior National Time Trial Championships (ages 17-18)
4th Juniors 17-18 National Criterium Championships 2011
7th Juniors 17-18 National RR Championships 2011

2010 Top Results:
1st Dragons Challenge Time Trial Women's Open
1st Donaldson Road Race (Women's 3-4)
1st Fork Shoals Road Race (Women's 3-4)
1st Greenville Spring Series Road Races (Women 3-4)
1st Lowes Motor Speedway Time Trial Series (Women 3)
2nd Junior Nationals Time Trial (Age 15-16)
2nd Rock Hill Bicycle Club Classic Criterium (Women 3-4)
2nd ETJC Omnium Time Trial Women's Open
3rd Sandy Springs Criterium (Women 3-4)
4th Tour De 'Toona Criterium (Women 3-4)

Cycling strengths: I love everything so far, I can't decide what I am best at, but I get the best results in time trials.

Favorite training ride: It starts from my front door and it is a 72-mile ride with a little bit of everything in it!

Favorite breakfast: Eggs, oatmeal and strawberries

Favorite training foods: My favorite post-race drink is a cold Coke and I love ice cream after a race I do well in!

Favorite off the bike activities: I like to go to high school, youth group, bake cookies for other people, and play with my dog.

Favorite book: Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris

Favorite movie: Stick It, Harry Potter

You might be surprised to learn:

I play 3 instruments: violin, cello, and piano
I am allergic to chocolate
My front five teeth are all fake, due to a crash descending off a mountain

Erika Graves

Date of Birth: January 5, 1985
Year Went Pro: 2011
Hometown: Born in Tokyo. Lived in Japan, Washington state and Nashville
Current Residence: Los Angeles, CA

How it all began: My Dad taught me how to ride when I was 5 years old. I remember it vividly because he put me straight onto a bike with no training wheels and told me to just start pedaling fast so I wouldn't fall over. It's amazing what challenges you can take on when you aren't given the option to take an easier route. On my first try I found my balance right away and sped off down the street.

I draw a lot of inspiration from my Dad because he shared his love for bicycles with me from a young age. He passed away from pancreatic cancer just as I was getting into cycling, so he never got to see me race. On many race days I imagine that he is watching me from wherever he is, and it pushes me to put in the best performance I can.

Why I'm proud to be a NOW and Novartis for MS rider: A family friend who watches after my dog has MS. He was a school teacher for many years before being diagnosed. He now owns a dog kennel (a long-standing dream of his) and loves his work. I am grateful for the opportunity to use my passion for cycling to draw attention to the MS community. By joining in MS rides and racing across the country for NOW and Novartis for MS, I look forward to raising awareness about MS and encouraging people to become involved in whatever way they can.

Top Results:
2nd Tour of Murrieta Criterium 2011
2nd Ride it Like You Stole it CBR Criterium 2011
3rd Devil's Punchbowl Road Race 2009
5th Dana Point Grand Prix 2011
5th Sea Otter Classic Criterium 2011
5th Tour de Nez Criterium 2009
5th Tour de White Rock Criterium (Canada) 2009
6th Redlands Criterium 2011
7th San Dimas Criterium 2011
8th Manhattan Beach Grand Prix 2010
9th Dana Point Grand Prix NRC 2010
10th Cascade Classic Road Race 2009
10th Cascade Classic Criterium 2009

Cycling strengths: When I started cycling, I trained to be a climber so that I could excel at hilly road races. As I became more confident in criteriums, I switched gears to train for shorter, faster efforts. My current strength is short to mid-length races of attrition where we are on the gas the whole time. My goal is to work on my weaknesses so that I can be an "all-rounder," strong enough to be competitive in a range of cycling events.

Favorite training ride: Go north on Pacific Coast Highway, right on Latigo (about an hour climb), descend down to Mulholland Highway, right on Mullhullond Highway, right on Las Virgenes, left on Piuma (about a 30 minute climb), then descend down Rambla Pacifica back to PCH. The ride has flats, climbing, a couple fast descents, and spectacular ocean viewpoints.

Favorite breakfast: A giant green juice followed by oatmeal loaded with berries and cinnamon.

Favorite training foods: Jam sandwiches, bananas, and sweet potatoes

Favorite off the bike activities: Grocery shopping is probably my favorite thing to do in my spare time. My bookshelf is stuffed with food magazines and various books on food science, culture, and policy. Can you tell I love food and everything about it?! I also enjoy hanging out at coffee shops with friends after a ride or in the afternoon by myself, in which case I study or people watch (very entertaining in Los Angeles). As a graduate student/bike racer, I've learned to appreciate low-budget forms of entertainment like staying in, cooking a good meal, and watching a movie. I like to go out every now and then but must admit I am mostly a homebody. Have to go to bed at a reasonable hour so I can get up early for those weekend group rides!

Favorite book: East of Eden by John Steinbeck

Favorite movie: Amélie, Chocolate, The Princess Bride

You might be surprised to learn:

I am a quarter Japanese and grew up speaking that before English
I am currently working on a Masters in Public Health and a Masters in Public Policy (MPH/MPP) from UCLA

Anne Samplonius

Date of Birth: February 11, 1968
Year Went Pro: 1994
Hometown: Toronto, Canada
Current Residence: Boulder, CO

How it all began: My dad taught me to ride a bike around age 5... I saw women's pro cycling on TV in Canada in the early 90's and that was the first time I even knew that women raced bicycles (or that bicycle racing even existed as a sport!) From there I researched more, read books, and bought my first road bike. I was hooked.

Why I'm proud to be a NOW and Novartis for MS rider: Since I have people I know personally with this disease I am glad that we can provide some exposure and support. I am glad that when I ride and race my bike for NOW and Novartis for MS that I can do something good for the world, make the world better in some small way... I have not felt often enough in my career that I have contributed positively to our world... so I am very motivated this year to be able to ride and race my bike and contribute to something other than myself.

Career Highlights: Member of Canadian National team since 1992
Attended World Championships 11 times
2006 Canadian National Criterium Champion
2007 Pan American Games Gold Medalist
2007 Canadian National Time Trial Champion
2008 Canadian National Time Trial Champion

Top Results:
1st Cascade Classic 2011 Awbrey Butte Circuit Race
1st Tour of Elk Grove 2011 Time Trial
Cascade Classic 2011 Sprinters Jersey winner
1st Tulsa Tough Riverview Criterium 2011
1st Chrono Champenois (France) 2010
1st Ronde van Gelderland (Holland) 2008
1st Tour de Leelanau 2008
1st San Dimas Stage Race Time Trial (2007)
2nd Tour of Elk Grove 2011 Final GC
2nd Cascade Classic 2011 Final GC
2nd Tour de Toona 2011 Blair County Road Race
3rd Cascade Classic 2011 Downtown Criterium
3rd Tour de Toona 2011 Downtown Time Trial
2nd Tour de Toona Time Trial 2011
2nd Tour de Toona Road Race 2011
2nd Canadian Nationals Time Trial 2010
2nd Canadian Time Trial National Championships 2010
2nd overall Tour of Gila 2006
2nd Canadian Road Nationals Championships 2006
3rd overall Nature Valley Grand Prix 2008
6th NVGP Pro Women Overall 2011
6th St. Paul Time Trial NVGP 2011
7th Cannon Falls RR NVGP 2011
8th Stillwater Criterium NVGP 2011 8th Cascade Classic 2011 Skyliners Time Trial
9th Tour de Toona 2011 Final GC
11th Cascade Lakes Road Race 2011
11th Cascade Classic 2011 McKenzie Pass Road Race

Cycling strengths: All-around rider, with time trialing as a strength, and decent climber.

Favorite training ride: In Colorado from Boulder to Estes Park. I can take a few different routes there, steep long mountain climbs or gradual, all scenic, all beautiful, and it is a 5.5 hour round trip.

Favorite breakfast: Toast. I love toast with butter and jam or honey. Has to be good artisan bread though.

Favorite training foods: I limit it to gels--they taste awful, but they are effective. On longer rides I have an energy bar (better) and sometimes will buy a Coke.

Favorite off the bike activities: Love ice hockey, and play in off-season with women's local teams, or men's lunch (beer) league. Love anything outdoors... backpacking, hiking, roughing it in wilderness, bike touring, hiking, backcountry skiing (but I am fearful of avalanches so I keep this on the lame side, plus I am not good at skiing). Love to write, and I am honing that skill as much as I can. Interested in keeping our planet as green (and alive) as possible.

Favorite book: Generally the last one I read. I would say that Under the Banner of Heaven by Kraukauer stands out in the past 5 years.

You might be surprised to learn:

I am very generous and a warm hearted person even though I come across as harsh at times
I am positive and happy 99% of the time
I love to write, but I do not practice or do it enough

Devon Gorry

Date of Birth: January 3, 1981
Year Went Pro: 2010
Hometown: Painesville, OH
Current Residence: Santa Cruz, CA

How it all began: I've been an avid athlete all my life. After years of playing soccer and running track, I decided I wanted to get a bike and try a triathlon after I graduated from college. That's when I fell in love with cycling. One thing led to another and I was hooked! Soon I was racing my bike every weekend and dreaming of riding professionally.

Why I'm proud to be a NOW and Novartis for MS rider: My husband's aunt has MS. It is inspiring to be riding for a good cause and a reminder to be thankful for all that my body allows me to do. I am excited to be a part of something that is bigger than just racing our bikes and I hope that our role has a meaningful and positive impact on others.

Top Results:
1st Central Coast Circuit Race 2011
1st Davis Criterium 2010
1st Agen Criterium 2009
1st Sun Prairie WI State Championship 2009
1st Monsters of the Midway 2009
1st Tour of America's Dairyland Fond du Lac Road Race 2009
1st Tour of America's Dairyland Greenbush Road Race 2009
1st Tour de Bretagne UCI 2.2 Classement Grimpeur (Climber's Jersey) 2009
2nd Tour de Nez Time Trial 2010
2nd Patterson Pass Road Race 2010
2nd Tour of America's Dairyland Blue Mounds Road Race 2009
2nd Tour of American's Dairyland Final Omnium
3rd Menlo Park Grand Prix 2011
3rd Snelling Road Race 2010
3rd Scott's Valley Grand Prix 2010
3rd Wheels on Willy 2009
3rd Snake Alley 2009

Cycling strengths: I would be considered an all-rounder

Favorite training ride: The Big Basin Loop: Granite Creek to Mount Charlie to Summit to Skyline then Big Basin Highway to Jamison (ouch) and down Empire Grade (weee!).

Favorite breakfast: Cereal with fresh fruit or eggs on toast (over medium) or oatmeal or maybe pancakes... I love breakfast!

Favorite training foods: I like eating dates on my bike rides... perfect little bite sized energy snacks. Afterwards, ice cream of course!

Favorite off the bike activities: Cyclocross (that is off the bike because sometimes you have to get off), economics (I'm kind of a nerd), and puppies!

Favorite book: The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay

Favorite band: Bare Naked Ladies - it's fun when everyone throws mac and cheese!

You might be surprised to learn:

I ran the steeplechase in college
I lived in a tent for three months while riding my bike around New Zealand and Australia
I have crooked pinkies
I am working on my PhD in Economics with a focus on Education and Health Research

Collin Berry

What are your goals for 2012?

I have four main goals for 2012. I want to have a strong showing at both Tulsa Tough and the U23 Road nationals, I want to be in the top 3 at an event at Elite Track Nationals, and most importantly to me, I want to be able to race in the Gent UIV Talents Cup on the track. I feel that it's a very prestigious event in the 6-day world and one of the crown jewels of Belgium. I would be honored to have a start in there.

How are you preparing differently for this upcoming year versus 2011?

Earlier in the year before the UIV's I was riding a very small gear on the track at a very high cadence to be ready for the constant and ballistic gear-restricted speeds of the 6-days, but now that that's over I am focusing exclusively on the road, trying to get my 53x11 legs.

What events/competitions are you looking forward to the most for 2012?

Tulsa Tough, Cascade Cycling Classic, Elite Track Nationals, and the whole winter track season.

Ivy LeDonne

For more than 25 years Ivy LeDonne has aspired to be the best equestrian professional she can be. She's dedicated her life to bettering the lives of her horses, students, those within her sport and the community. She does this with a fierce dedication and a heart-warming smile that enables her to achieve professional success and help others along the way.

Ivy has ridden most disciplines, but the majority of her professional career has been spent in the world of eventing. The sport is often called the equestrian triathlon as it combines three distinct types of riding - dressage, show jumping and cross-country jumping. After the loss of her talented New Zealand thoroughbred and years of competing at a grueling pace, she made the difficult decision to focus her competitive career in the sport of show jumping.

Like most things in her life, Ivy met the challenge head on. She started over, rebuilding her business with new clientele and no sponsorships. Her modest lifestyle and never-ending hard work enable her to hone her skills with occasional training trips to Germany, where she also develops business opportunities to import talented horses to the U.S.

Her never give up attitude carries into improving the lives of those less fortunate. Ivy has organized gift and donation drives for the local emergency housing shelter and children's hospital; as well as charities that provide for children with life threatening illnesses and animal rescues. She is also an active member of the board of governors for the Equestrian Aid Foundation, a nonprofit that provides financial assistance for people in the horse world who are suffering from life-threatening illnesses and catastrophic injuries.

"Phil Keoghan is an inspiration for living life in each moment," Ivy said. "I'm thrilled to share his wisdom and NOW with the equestrian world."

Cam Zink

What are your goals for the 2012 season?

My goals for 2012 are to simply win. Win as many contests as I can and hopefully get another world title! When I am not at contests I will be focusing on the film for "Where the Trail Ends" which will be premiering in Vegas in September.

What events/races are looking forward to the most for 2012?

I am first and foremost looking forward to Rampage and defending my title in the best mountain bike contest on the planet. I love big mountain riding and Rampage is the place to showcase the world what mountain bikes are capable of.

What did you learn from last season that will help you progress in the upcoming season?

I didn't learn too much this season, actually. I just need to ride as much as possible. I came to every event this year healthy and prepared - I just need to do the same this year and put it all together.

Jordan Romero

What are your goals for 2012?

Well for now, I need to decompress and relax a bit after the expedition. My real focus at the moment is to work on my skiing. Of course, the biggie is the 50 states tour of the U.S. It may take a few years, but that's what's on tap at the moment.

What is next for you in terms of climbing now that you have reached the 7 summits?

Well, it will be a casual, yet still with a goal in mind. I really have a dream to return to the Himalayas and do some big mountain skiing. There is so much to see and climb here in North American, I can't wait to explore, but with a lot more skiing involved.

What have lessons have you learned as result of your 7 summit experience?

I have learned a lot. Mainly, the importance of a my team. Also, I have been to some underdeveloped nations and have seen terrible poverty. I know to take nothing for granted. This is big lesson to learn.I also know now the importance of sticking to a goal. It's been 6 long hard years for this 7 summits quest, and it's been quite a lesson to learn.

Ashley Kumlien

What are your goals for the 2013 MS Run the US Relay?

Our overall goals for the relay are to raise $500,000 to donate to the MS cause through our designated charities and to raise awareness for the cause by increasing our support and connecting with individuals daily. We also strive to create a unique endurance fundraising experience for athletes of all skill levels.

How are you preparing mentally and physically for the 2013 MS Run the US Relay?

For myself, the 2013 Relay will be more of a mental challenge than a physical one. For this relay I will be taking the role of main support crew & event manager, making sure everything goes smoothly. My main concern will be for the runner putting in the miles at hand and raising funds & awareness for the cause. Having the experience of running the miles myself in 2010, I have a better idea of how to organize the event but it will still be a huge challenge to put together, coordinate and execute. I am looking forward to it!

What are you most excited about for the rest of this year and the upcoming 2013 MS Run the US Relay?

I finished off the rest of 2010 and the beginning of 2011 with my fiancée in Australia, so I am really looking forward to spending the rest of the year in America. I received a sponsorship to travel and speak about last year's run, so I'm really looking forward to that opportunity. I'm also excited to get my feet going in some ultramarathons and enjoy the outdoor activities that I've always been drawn too. I can't pass up my excitement about my wedding I am starting to plan, as well as getting some of the big starting projects out of the way for MS Run the US 2013; such as the new website. Throw some fundraisers in there, my job, and trying to balance it all...and there always just seems a lot to look forward to!

How is MS Run the US 2013 going to be different than your run in 2010?

I want to get more runners and people involved, but I also want to give runners the opportunity to know what it feels like to run across the US, even if it's just for a week. The 2013 Relay will be a 5 month-long end to end relay, where one runner will cover approximately 130 miles for the week; roughly translating into a marathon a day. I will be the project manager & main crew member with one to two others with me working on PR, community involvement and runner support. Mainly, the more runners & people we have involved, the more communities and networks we touch, which means we can raise more awareness about the MS cause and inspire others to donate and support...as well as have some serious fun too!

Chris Barnes

What are your goals for the 2012 season?

My goals for 2012... The main goal is to race and train injury free and have fun. With two ultra's this year, one being Leadville 100 trail run, the main goal is to finish each race in a decent time. Through racing I have found a foundation that I support, the Coats Disease Foundation. Through racing I am raising money to help find research and a cure for this disease. If you are not familiar with Coats Disease, check out the link, http://www.coatsdiseasefoundation.org. This organization is dear to my heart as I have Coats Disease and I went blind in my left eye when I was 15 years old. That is how I got into guiding blind athletes in marathons and triathlons. Overall the main goal for 2012 is to have fun. That is why I run, I love it. It doesn't seem like something I have to do, it's something that I love doing and have fun doing it. Whether it is running with friends, running through the woods, on the roads, it is all about running for fun.

What events/races are looking forward to the most for 2012?

2012 is going to be a different kind of year from most. The amount of races decreased but the distance increased. My main goal is Leadville 100 mile trail run in August. Everything this year is gearing towards that one race, with the San Juan Solstice 50 mile two months before. Also planning on guiding a buddy who is visually impaired as much as possible.

What did you learn from last season that will help you progress in the upcoming season?

I learned a lot from last year's season for sure. I raced a lot, more than I probably should have. I stayed injury free, somehow, during the season but ended the with a DNF (Did Not Finish) which was pretty heavy. I learned to listen to my body and if I need to back off, take a rest day (or two), sleep in, to do it. Life is too short to mess yourself up for life over one race. I learned this the hard way, with getting hypothermia in an Iron distance race in mid October. I also learned that racing and training is not the only thing in life, family and friends come first. Being happy and doing the sport you love because you love it is what it's all about.

Tyler Lawless

Background

In 2011, I played NJCAA Tennis for college in Upstate New York. The team went undefeated taking 1st place regionally, and 2nd nationally

Personal

As a kid, I always enjoyed being active. During the school years I had a busy schedule traveling for baseball, and in my free time I would skateboard, bike, hike, anything the central New York weather and landscape offered. I had to be on the go.

Interests

Working out all the time isn't always the answer for a healthy body. With my 6 foot 2 inch, 170lbs frame I need the proper natural nutrients to support my body and rigorous lifestyle. I have a NOW bar before and after my training because its there for me with everything I need. Can't go wrong with all natural.

Jamey Yon

Jamey started in the Sport of triathlon in 1986 and has competed, trained, and coached for the past 25 years! At the age of 45 he is now a husband, father of 4 children, Coach and Elite Masters triathlete and runner. Jamey's vast knowledge in Triathlon, Running, Nutrition, and Strength training helps him share with others the keys to success and longevity in their sport. With 100 plus races under his belt, 16 Ironmans, and 20 plus marathons, he is still healthy and well and competing as a Master's Runner and Triathlete. His Faith in Jesus Christ has given him vision and purpose through TRi-Yon Performance as a way to promote Health and Wellness throughout his community and abroad!

Career Highlights:

Triathlon Age Group National Champion
Bronze Medalist Age Group World Championships, Lusanne, Switzerland
16 Ironman Finishes with 5 Professional Top-10 Performances
2nd & 5th Overall @ 2000 Lake Placid Ironman USA in 8:56, 2:56 marathon leg
6th Overall @ Ironman California
8th & 9th Overall @ Ironman Florida
6 Time Hawaii Ironman Finisher, 49th, 42nd, 31st Overall
Over 30 Local and Regional Triathlon and Road Race Titles
2000 Motorola 26.2 Marathon in 2:23 Personal Best

How did your career as a triathlete begin?

While a student at Clemson University in 1986, I stirred an interest in triathlon after my older brother had bought a road bike and competed in his first "Biathlon". Of course, that summer I came home and wanted to follow in his footsteps. We decided to embark on our first triathlon together and traveled to Knoxville, Tennessee. We completed an Olympic distance triathlon and from that moment on my course was set!

What are your goals for the upcoming season?

As a Masters Triathlete and Coach my biggest goal of this season is to race with a cause, to support NOW and their goal to bring awareness and support to those dealing with MS. As a Husband, Father, Coach, and Athlete, I hope inspire others in our community about the importance of Health & Wellness through Sport & Nutrition!

Elle Keoghan

Ty Loomis

Ryan Flanagan

What are your goals for 2012?

My goals for 2012 are to come back stronger than ever and stay healthy. I had a number of surgeries and injuries over the past two years where I was always training or rehabbing to maintain my body and fight through the season. Now that everything has been repaired, my goal is to push my body to its limits everyday and come back stronger than I was before my injuries and do the right things to avoid injury.

How are you preparing differently for this upcoming year versus 2011?

I have been preparing differently in that I have been a lot more aggressive in my training this year versus last year. In 2011, I spent a lot of time rehabbing injuries or maintaining my body. I could not push myself too hard because of the injuries. I have been able to focus on footwork and speed and agility more this year versus last year. My workouts have changed in a sense that each day is dedicated to a certain part of the body and that body part is pushed to exhaustion on that day where as in years past I would try to focus on either my upper body and lower body in general.

What events are you looking forward to the most for 2012?

I am really looking forward to the 2012 Major League Lacrosse Season. This will be the inaugural season for the Charlotte Hounds and I am fortunate to be a part of the professional lacrosse experience in Charlotte, NC. We have had great support from the community and there is a lot of positive buzz around the team.