first Barbara Schmidt Millar Triathlon. The sense of accomplishment and camaraderie that I get to witness and experience each time I compete is unparalleled. What a combined show of strength and love by and for the women of our community, and what a ripple effect of giving that it creates in the days and months that follow.

With a background in event coordination and marketing it is my goal to bring a new energy to this time-honored tradition. Knowing that I get to have a behind-the-scenes hand in this inspirational and worthwhile cause is a gift to me, and I hope to handle it as such!

to become more actively involved in addressing their health needs. Nevada County has been my home since 2001 and I have fallen in love with the heart of our community. The BSM Triathlon is near and dear to my heart. I first participated 10 years ago in memory of my grandmother, mother and a dear friend that all lost their battle to cancer. Every year I keep their memory alive while biking through our beautifully forested trails, swimming in Scotts Flat Lake and running on the trails along the NID. This event is proof that it only takes a few to make a lasting impact.

The women that participate in the triathlon continue to inspire me. They support one another on many different levels while giving back to our community for generations to come. Serving the needs of our community is of utmost importance to me; the opportunities in Nevada County are endless and I encourage everyone to become more actively involved. For over 5 years, I have also involved the students and parents of Echo Ridge Christian School in Nevada City, where I serve as principal. We must lead by example and give our children multiple opportunities to serve in our community. They are indeed our future.

Know that your time, energy, sweat and tears will not be wasted while participating in this event. You will create memories that will last a lifetime and be inspired by the many courageous women that are making a difference in our community every day. I am humbled and thrilled to serve on this committee; lives are being touched as our community works hand in hand to serve others in need. What an outpouring of love!

volleyball together where we met Cathy Anderson-Meyers. When Barbara became ill we, along with some other friends, planned a triathlon in her honor. I have been fortunate enough to have participated in 11 of the 16 Celebration of Life Triathlons. I am the type of person who lacks any real discipline when it comes to exercise. If it’s not fun, I won’t do it. Every summer around July, I start my version of training for the tri, always keeping it fun! My favorite part of this event is the camaraderie of all of these different types of woman who participate. Young and old, athletic and couch potatoes, fit and out-of shape, come together for their varying reasons and share a great day.

1999. Receiving that scholarship (and the friendship that came with it) fostered a spirit of encouragement and support in me that I will continue to pass on. I’m happy to continue that tradition as the sponsorship chair of the steering committee, as well as helping with scholarships. I’m honored to serve our community through the work of the BSM.

I was born and raised in Nevada County. I feel very fortunate to be able to raise my son in the same beautiful area where my husband and I grew up. I work locally as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, and love encouraging healthy habits in the community. The BSM tri has become an amazing annual challenge for me. I love the opportunity to connect with other women as we work to train and challenge ourselves in healthy directions. I thrive on the camaraderie of the group and the support that overflows on the day of the event.