Congratulations to T3's November Athlete of the Month, Erika Eckrote! When her first A race was cancelled (AG nationals) and her second went virtual (Pumpkinman), Erika did not miss a beat in her training. This summer she turned training into a lifestyle habit, and through consistent training set a 5 minute virtual Pumpkinman PR. Now almost two months removed from race season, she stays active at least 6 days every week, and we know she will only be stronger next year's race season

A:   Erika Eckrote I live in Poultney, Vermont

A:   50

A:   Special Education Teacher/Dept. Chair

A:   4 years

A:   First year with Tim Russell

A:   My favorite race would be Pumpkinman Sprint Tri. This would be my favorite race because of the atmosphere, the racers and the race itself. There is a unique challenge of running up hill when one exits the water, the ride provides opportunities to get out of your set and the run begins downhill. Unique challenges for each discipline. I will also mention the post race. The spread is beyond “race food” there are stations of pancakes, egg burritos, Mimosa’s and candy!

A:   My favorite piece of triathlon equipment would be my trainer. Before I purchased one November would roll around and my bike would be put up until April. Now I am aimlessly spin in the comfort of my own home no matter what the weather brings.

A:   Career highlights… I would begin in 1982 when I had the opportunity to swim in Berlin, Germany and see the Berlin Wall. I like to think about where my runs, tri’s or even hikes take me instead of specific PRs. However it was reassuring that my training in a season of so much unknown paid off. I decided to continue with the Pumpkinman Tri virtually this past year and looked for a course that was as equitable as if I were in person. I ended up swimming and riding a bit more than the course but all in all I shaved 5 mins. Off my time from last year. Most significantly the swim.

A:   The upcoming season I hope to spend my time focusing on training for Age Group Nationals, stay injury free and enjoy my journey.

A:   I have always been a sprinter and I would like to think that I can push myself beyond my limits and eventually train for an Ironman.

A:   Peanut butter, Fig Newtons and Spicy salsa for topping on everything

A:   Alternative and hip hop

A:   e kind to yourself. The hard part is the training, not the race.

A:   Do Not try anything new at a race. I made that mistake, prior to a half marathon I decided to try some new fad of an endurance drink.. It did not work out for me.

A:   I enjoy as hard as they feel in the moment track workouts. I find I can see the immediate results of what I am doing, pushing myself out of my threshold and getting stronger.

A:   In my opinion, this is the ultimate sport. One does not have to be an expert in all three disciplines, but instead determined to just finish knowing you did your best.