1 Who are you? 

Stephanie Benson, 31, Grants Director

2 Favorite Athlete: 

I don't have a favorite, but I love watching Ironman and other endurance races.  Those athletes are amazing and inspiring. 

3 Favorite Quote: 

You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You must do the thing which you think you cannot do. -- Eleanor Roosevelt

4 Favorite Sport: 

Favorite sports to do: swimming and running.  Favorite sport to watch: basketball

5 Favorite Food: 

Greek food is my favorite.

6 First Triathlon? If not, which ones have you done? 

My first triathlon was the Santa Barbara All-Women's Super Sprint 2005.  So far, I've done Long Beach, Danskin, Redondo Beach, Camp Pendleton and Santa Barbara again this year. I'm working on mastering Olympic distance now and plan to do the Barb's All-Women Half-Ironman next summer. 

7 What inspires you to do triathlons? 

Training for and doing triathlons pushes me beyond where I thought I could go, both mentally and physically.  I love the feeling of accomplishment when you cross the finish line and everything you've worked so hard for has paid off.   And, I love training with my fellow divas who inspire me more than they'll ever know!

8 WHO inspires you? 

 My fellow TriDivas inspire me!

9 What is your biggest challenge/fear? 

My biggest fear has been the bike.  Prior to doing triathlons, my cycling experience was limited to cruising around my neighborhood as a kid.  But, practice makes perfect and it is getting easier with time.

10 Any advice for future TriDivas? 

Do not be intimidated by triathlons.  There are people of all ages, sizes and abilities who do triathlons and love it!  The TriDivas is a truly inspiring and encouraging group of women, so if you've ever wanted to do this, go for it!  

11 What do you enjoy most about training with the TriDivas? 

The fun, the encouragement, the friendship, the accountability and having Coach Kelly's wisdom in those times when I don't have a clue what I'm doing.

12 What are your future goals? 

Next year I plan to do Barb's All-Women Half-Ironman and eventually an Ironman.

13 Anything else you would like to add?  

I joined the TriDivas with the goal of doing just one triathlon, but I had so much fun I can't stop.  Thanks to all the TriDivas for your encouragement and friendship along the way!