After a childhood spent in the pool, Beth F. discovered a new endurance challenge that would shape the next two decades of her life. At 17, she completed her first triathlon — a modest start that sparked a lasting passion.
“I loved going on bike rides with my dad and ran to stay active and fit for swim season,” she said. “My dad recommended that I try a new sport called "triathlons". “I had my first triathlon at Raintree Lake in Missouri in 2002. I used an old competitive swimsuit, an $80 used bike and my running shoes. I did not have all the fancy bells and whistles others had on the course, but I absolutely loved the triathlon race and community — I was hooked.”
That early experience turned into a lifelong pursuit. Over the past 24 years, Beth has completed 11 full Ironman triathlons — each consisting of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride and a 26.2-mile marathon — along with two half-Ironman 70.3 races, and countless other triathlons and marathons. Her dedication to endurance sports reflects not just physical discipline, but a deep appreciation for the ability to move.
“I've always told people that, you know, that there's people that physically, financially, mentally, whatever it may be, may not be able to do what I do,” she said. “I'm in that season in my life right now with an injury that I can't do it. But when I can do it, that's what motivates me to like to get up and do it because there's so many people that can't.”
That perspective has become especially meaningful during her recovery from a significant injury. Last year, Beth underwent two-foot surgeries to correct Haglund’s deformity, a painful condition caused by a bone spur pressing into the Achilles tendon.
“I had to stop running completely in 2024 and knew I needed to see a podiatrist,” she said. “Once I was told I needed surgery, I joined the Lenexa Rec Center. I needed somewhere I could continue to stay active and healthy post-surgery.”
Even while sidelined from running, Beth has found ways to stay active and connected to fitness. Whether she’s swimming laps, walking the indoor track or using a stationary bike, movement remains a daily priority — and a family activity.
“It's not like a selfish place to go,” she said. “I can say I'm going to go swim laps, and they can go have fun as well. They can practice their strokes, or they can play on the slides. It's a nice place to just come and feel like you're all getting something done.”
Her motivation also comes from the moments she shares with her family, especially their annual trips.
“I just love being with my kids and traveling and we go to Disney World every year,” Beth said. “I came here after my foot surgery to get on the bike and the treadmill to get like we call our “Disney legs” so I could get kind of that endurance built up.”
Still, Beth is candid about the mental challenges that come with injury and recovery.
“We all have our down days and it understandable to be upset when you're injured,” she said. “Work in the gym on your weaknesses or go outside and explore a new hobby. Try to find something that can take your injury to a positive light. God gave me this body, and I am blessed each day to be able to do what I do. When I am fully healed, I never take for granted what " I get to do"! You don't have to go to the gym; you don’t have to lift weights — you get to!”
At the center of it all is her role as a mother and example to her children.
“Challenges will come and go through out life,” Beth said. “It’s my job to set the example and optics for my kids, that life will hand you problems and it’s how you deal with them that defines your character. Do the right thing, be kind and be honest. I want my kids to see that I do prioritize fitness and sports because you need to be physically and mentally healthy to be a well-rounded mom, firefighter, co-worker and daughter.”
For the past 18 years, Beth has also served her community as a firefighter/paramedic, balancing a demanding career with her commitment to family and fitness. When she’s not responding to emergencies or training, she enjoys spending time with her 11-year-old twins, biking, hiking, tackling home projects and relaxing with the family dog, Cocoa.
Through every race, recovery and routine, Beth’s story is grounded in gratitude — for movement, for resilience and for the opportunity to keep going.