T3 Coaching is proud to announce this month's athlete of the month, Mara Fronhofer. Mara embodies the spirit of triathlon. Her resiliency, longevity in the sport and consistent positive outlook is something special. When the news broke that most races would be canceled, Mara took it with great stride and continued her journey of lifelong fitness. At no time did she slow her training. She showed pride in the work she had done and continues that today. If ever in need of a good laugh or smile, Mara is your “go-to”. Congratulations Mara!

A:   Mara Fronhofer. I live in Moreau, NY.

A:   53

A:   I teach first grade.

A:   About 20 years. I started off doing one small race a year, then moved to a few off road races a year until I got more involved with road triathlons and longer distances.

A:   On and off for 12 years. Kevin has coached me through most of my big races.

A:   This is tough, I guess I don't have a favorite. I loved IMLP because I had a good day and great experience, especially with so many people I know cheering me on. Fronhofer Tool Tri was a favorite because It felt like home. So many friends and family there competing with me and volunteering. It was a great course and venue. Each year I look forward to The Wilmington Whiteface 100K mountain bike race. It's a fun course, so challenging, with so much comradery going on out on the course and a great after race party. Every year I meet, work with, and suffer with some great people out there!

A:   My bike, probably just because biking is my favorite leg.

A:   Beating Paul Fronhofer out of the water at an Xterra race back when we were just friends
7th place at Xterra worlds in 2007
Completing Ironman Lake Placid in 2008
Coming back as a competitive triathlete after having twins at 43 years old
First place NYS mountain bike series in 2011
7th place at ITU cross worlds in 2012
6th place at ITU cross worlds in 2015
5th place at Mont Tremblant 70.3 in 2014 (and competing in worlds there the same year)
Leadville 100 mountain bike race in 2011 and 2017

A:   I was supposed to race Ironman Lake Placid. I wanted to come back into triathlon after a few years off, due to knee and back issues which forced me to stop running. I have been competing in mountain bike races but feeling my fitness decline due to age and laziness. I set this big goal to help motivate me to get back into good shape and feel strong again. Although they have put the race off this year, I completed the three day Ironman challenge and surprised myself with great results and feeling strong and like an athlete again...thanks to a great coach! Goal achieved! I will most likely transfer my entry to next year.

A:   At this point in my life I would just like to stay active and involved. Who knows maybe next year I will compete more and rock the 55 age group if my knees hold up.

A:   Peanut butter, ice cream, beer.

A:   All kinds but when I’m on the trainer doing a tough workout - Eminem

A:   Make friends with some veteran triathletes and pick their brains, train with others, most of all have fun! In my opinion, you are winning if you’re out there doing it.

A:   Quality over quantity, we all have busy lives! Train with friends!

A:   Climbing hills on the bike!

A:   If you've got the triathlon bug, you're stuck with it or at least the drive and need to be competitive. I have been competing in all kinds of sporting events for most of my life from HS sports to bodybuilding, karate, mountain biking and triathlon. The trick is finding a way to make it part of your life and not let it control your life, something you can share with family and friends. Keep it fun and always smile along the way.