Brooklyn Runner Kelly Roberts Takes on New Challenge: Half-Ironman
Kelly Roberts, a seasoned runner based in Brooklyn, has made a name for herself in the running community. With numerous finishes in 5K, 10K, half-marathon, and marathon races under her belt, she now seeks a new quest—completing a half-Ironman at Jones Beach, New York, later this September. As the founder of the Badass Lady Gang, Roberts emphasizes empowering women to achieve their running goals through personalized training plans and support.
A half-Ironman comprises a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile bike ride, and a 13.1-mile run, all completed consecutively. Typically, participants have a time limit of seven to eight hours to finish all segments of the race. Transitioning from her usual running-centric training routines, Roberts is venturing into the realms of swimming and biking—finding biking particularly challenging due to some elitist attitudes she has encountered in the cycling community.
Embracing a New Challenge
Why attempt a half-Ironman? For Roberts, this journey has long been a dream. Having grown up in San Diego—the birthplace of triathlons—and with a father who was a collegiate swimmer, the triathlon’s three sports were an integral part of her upbringing. She spent her formative years swimming in the ocean and riding bikes, which have set the stage for her current ambitions.
Mastering Biking Skills
Despite her background, Roberts admits that cycling has remained the most daunting aspect. She states, “Cycling is definitely the scariest of the three [disciplines].” Online cycling classes served as a precursor to outdoor riding, which Roberts embraced during the quieter days of the COVID-19 pandemic. A close friend provided her with a bike that she lovingly refers to as “midlife crisis red,” marking the beginning of her cycling journey.
Building Confidence on Two Wheels
Riding with others and navigating bustling city streets posed new challenges, but Roberts found camaraderie and support through her close-knit group of female friends. They have encouraged her throughout longer rides and assisted her in mastering essential biking skills such as braking and gear shifting. Despite this supportive network, Roberts has faced pressure from elite male cyclists, which she views as a barrier hindering a more inclusive cycling culture.
Size-Inclusive Gear and Community Challenges
Finding size-inclusive cycling gear has proved to be another hurdle for Roberts. While she typically fits into a 2XL cycling kit, the scarcity of quality apparel designed for larger bodies remains a pressing concern. She advocates for cycling brands to cater to all sizes, adding that there is a significant demand for diverse and functional cycling wear.
A Fresh Perspective on Sports
Roberts has been preparing for her upcoming half-Ironman by participating in various sprint triathlons, where she revels in the excitement and chaos of competition. “The sprint was so fun. It was chaos…in the best way,” she reflects. Her training experience extends to mastering water bottle grabs during ride transitions, testing different chamois thicknesses, and refining her nutrition strategy. Beyond preparing for the race, cycling has provided her with mental clarity and enjoyment, allowing her to embrace the beauty of the outdoors.
As she approaches her first half-Ironman, Roberts emphasizes the importance of joy in her journey. “I’m scared but also excited to own being new to triathlon,” she states, looking forward to putting herself to the test. With her passion for running and newfound enthusiasm for biking, Roberts aims to complete the challenge with a sense of accomplishment and happiness.
