About Kelly


I’ve been running competitively for over 35 years, starting at the age of 12 in seventh grade track and cross country programs in my hometown Canby, Minnesota. In high school, I was a state entrant in cross country, track, and wrestling. I then attended Moorhead State University where I ran cross country and track. I managed to be one of only two runners in school history to become a three time All-American in cross country. I was also a two time All-American in track. Post college I started hitting the roads starting with shorter distances but transitioned to marathons and finally trails. Over the years, I’ve won numerous races including marathons and ultras. I still run as an age grouper but also add in ElliptiGO, snowshoeing, skiing, and biking for some cross training. As a USATF Level 1 certified coach with great knowledge on running training theory and exercise physiology I’ve been able to share my love and knowledge of running with numerous athletes; both novice and experienced. I’d love to share my ideas and knowledge with you as well, regardless of whether your goal is finishing your first 5k, beating the 100 mile cut-offs, getting a Boston Qualifier, winning your age group, or setting a course record.
Achievements of Note
• Three-Time US National Champion
• 2021 USA Trail Half Marathon Championships- 1st Master
• 2020 USA Trail Marathon Championships- 3rd Master
• 2020 USA Trail Half Marathon Championships- 1st Master
• 2017 USA Trail Half Marathon Championships- 3rd Master
• 2014 National Snowshoe Team
• 2013 USA Half Marathon Championships- 3rd Master
• 2012 USA Half Marathon Championships- 3rd Master
• 2010 American Discovery Trail Marathon- 2nd
• 2009 National Snowshoe Team
• 2008 Sunmart Texas Trail Run 50k- 1st (Fastest 2008 USA Trail 50k based on course – UltraRunning Magazine)
• 2008 Pemberton 50k- 2nd
• 2007 National Snowshoe Team
• 2002 LA Marathon- 11th
• 2001-2002 Team USA MN
• 2000 Olympic Marathon Trials- 12th
• 1998 St George Marathon- 1st
• 1990-1992 3 x Cross Country All-American Moorhead State University
• 1991 & 1993 2 x Track All-American Moorhead State University
Coaching Experience
• Successfully coached hundreds of athletes to PR’s in the 800m, Mile, 5k, 10k, Half-Marathon, Marathon, and Ultras
• Helped all levels of runners from couch to 5k, Boston Qualifiers, all the way to Olympic Trials Qualifiers
• Coached by some of the top Hall of Fame track and field/distance and wrestling coaches (Tom “Tinman” Schwartz, Gerry Gingles, Bill Bredeson, Ron Masanz, and Ron Dahnke)
• Certified Strength & Conditioning Coach
• USATF Level 1 Track and Field Coach
•RRCA Level 1 Distance Running Coach
•Safe Sport Certified
•CPR/AED/First Aid Certified