Who are you? /Age/Occupation:

Melinda McPherson/ 40 /CPA

Favorite Quote:

“Fall down seven times, get up eight” Japanese Proverb

Favorite Athlete:

Brett Favre. He always makes the impossible, possible!!

Favorite Healthy Food:

Cottage Cheese

Favorite indulgent Food:

French Fries/ Dark Chocolate

Pet Peeves?

People who whine!

Top five IPOD selections?

I own three IPOD’s, but too many favorites to name

Are you training for your first triathlon? If not, which ones have you done?

Last year, I raced the SB Triathlon and then was unable to compete due to a broken leg. This year I have completed four races and I am totally hooked to do more.

What inspires you to do triathlons?

I find competing in triathlons is a release from my everyday life of working in the corporate world. I love the process of racing and I am inspired by all the other women who compete.

Who inspires you?

My mom is the most amazing athlete that I know. My childhood memories are of watching her compete in dirt bike races in the 70’s, when there were few women in the sport. She has always been there to encourage all of my aspirations in life and never allowed me to quit anything.

What is your biggest challenge/fear?

My biggest challenge is to learn to run again after my “spectacular dismount off the bike” (Wendy’s Quote). The plate/screws in my leg limit the flexibility of my ankle/foot. I would say the biggest fear would be, disappointing myself.

Any advice for future TriDivas?

Have fun and don’t be nervous as everyone was once new!

What do you enjoy most about training with the TriDivas?

Race day is amazing, to see all the women competing and cheering for you along the race route. I hear more cheering from fellow divas, than from the spectators.