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