Tampa Bay FIT – Chapter Coaches

Vikki joined USAFIT Tampa Bay in 2014, and will be again be co-organizing the chapter this year with Kristin.  Vikki’s inspiring journey to fitness, motivates all of those around her to follow in her footsteps, with the confidence that they too, can do what may have once seemed impossible.

Vikki’s experience in her own words:

I started running as an activity after I lost over 100 lbs back in 2011. Since then, I’ve completed 27 half marathons. My coaching goals always are to be positive, provide motivation, inspiration and assistance to those seeking to complete their first or fiftieth half marathon. My personal goals are to improve my finish times at my goal races.

“Whether it’s a 16-minute mile or a 7-minute mile, it is still a mile.”

When you first start on your fitness/running journey, you may not be the fastest. You may even be the slowest. It does not make a difference – what matters is that you are taking that first step to challenge your limits and make lasting changes to your life and health. No matter your pace, we all have the same end goal and TBF can get you there.

Joining TBF in 2011 as a member, Misti Hons was quickly seen as an inspiration to others, making her a great fit to the TBF coaches.   While coaching she also motived members with lofty goals she set for herself, like running 13 half marathons in 2013 or 1,000 in 1 year. This season Misti is looking forward to encouraging others to do things they never thought possible.

Misti’s running journey…

I started running in 2005 to relieve stress.  At first it was just as far as I could, then the Susan G Komen 5K, the Turkey Trot 5K (in all cotton may I add, big mistake!), the Gasparilla 15K and I was off and running or called myself a runner.  My training was ok, done mostly solo or with a former member of TBF who convinced me to join.  Best decision ever!  Not only have the training runs and seminars improved my running and knowledge of running…it’s the PEOPLE, the people make the difference!  Long runs don’t seem so long, highs and lows are shared and celebrated; I am happy to say this group has really become my ‘running family’.

You’ll find Kurt at every TBF run and event, with encouraging words, and a high 5, when you need it the most.  Those joining us will have the fortunate experience of learning from and getting to know this great man and athlete.

Kurt’s fitness journey in his own words:

I started my athletic life beginning with multi-sport (triathlon) competition about 12 years ago.  After numerous triathlons, I’ve also completed several half marathons and a full marathon along with a 111-mile bicycle race for good measure. I’ve been with TBF for 10 years as a runner, and coaching half marathoners for the last 3 years.  I was (gratefully) cajoled into TBF by one of my best friends who was also a former coach. My goal is to assist the runners to achieve their goals – all (running) things are possible with TBF!