2025 HFP Racing Ambassadors

This group of enthusiastic athletes from all backgrounds will engage in grassroots marketing, social media, and community engagement to encourage others to become active while highlighting the various events and distances that HFP Racing offers throughout 2025.

Anay Sierra

I am a person who loves to be active! I have been running for many years now as well as being a part of the multisport community. I am a member of the Darby Creek Multisport Buffalos. I am an ambivert, I like to socialize but can definitely be a little shy at times. I am always in need of a running/biking buddy to explore new trails with me!

Favorite Event:  The Queen City at Caesar Creek State Park, Cincinnati

Spot me at these races: Pleasant Valley (potentially), Deer Creek, Queen City, and The Great Buckeye

Favorite song to get me pumped-up: Diva by Beyonce

On my plate for a post-race meal: Tends to vary for me but if I am able to get a good amount of protein and carbs it is all that matters. I also always have a banana after a race.

My special race-day ritual: Always pack the night before, get a good night sleep, eat a banana before my race, get a good warm up in and have a positive mindset going into the race!

Advice for future HFP race participants: It is okay to be nervous but just know once you start it will go away. Do not be afraid to ask for help or any questions you may have. The community is super nice, and everyone is willing to be there for each other. Make sure you read your course map!

Instagram: @itz_anay
Facebook: @Duathlons Anay & @Darby Creek Buffalos

Brigid Groves

I am a former collegiate swimmer who discovered cycling through Pelotonia and decided to take up running to keep up with my husband and friends. Put them all together and now I am a triathlete! We love to travel for race-cations and have done so in San Francisco, Disney, Michigan, and Florida.

Favorite Event: While I do appreciate how quickly a sprint race flies by, I enjoy the Olympic distance most. It gives a challenge without taking too much time to train. I muddle my way through a few 70.3’s for fun as well.

Spot me at these races: I am looking forward to American Triple T this year – my first time doing the Triple T! The Tri the Land (new Cleveland race) is a high priority for me too. I also have Ironman Oceanside 70.3 on my list and Pelotonia later this summer.

Favorite song to get me pumped-up: Right now it’s Pink Pony Club by Chappell Roan. Former faves are Tear in Space by Glass Animals, Sweetness by Jimmy Eat World, Animals by Martin Garrix, and anything by Fall Out Boy!

On my plate for a post-race meal: Changes with what I am feeling during that race, but usually includes an adult beverage.

My special race-day ritual: Must have my battle braids in! Banana and an egg first thing. Then reviewing my packing list, bike, and bag for the zillionth time!

Advice for future HFP race participants: Sign up and do it. We were all first timers once. The sport of triathlon is an incredibly inclusive and welcoming environment so take advantage of those around by asking questions and seeking recommendations. Take a moment during your race to revel in the moment that yes, you CAN and ARE doing it!

https://www.facebook.com/share/15vQhDA5Qe/?mibextid=wwXIfr

https://www.instagram.com/brigeybidsbyetolbs?igsh=MWNia3hoODdpdHV6Yw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Jimmy Little
I have been involved with HFP Racing since 2005. The experiences I have had during this time have been amazing! I never would have guessed that joining such a great group of people would help propel me to experience so many things I would have never found possible before. As a result of having such a great race management organization to provide me with quality races, I have been able to race all around the world in places like Italy, Scotland, Denmark and Australia. I feel that no other discipline comes close to what Multisport can provide an individual. It truly is a “Life Sport” and we are so fortunate to have HFP in Ohio to provide what we racers need…A safe and well ran venue. You can usually find me at most races, either being a competitor or as a coach! Our team- The Darby Creek Buffalos which is mainly a youth team but open to all, usually performs very well!
My favorite race would have to be Maumee Bay. I love the flat bike course and the often times, HOT run along Lake Erie. I have many fond memories of the venue and love when 80’s rock is played before the start! Getting up before a race has become a standard ritual of eating a couple of Clif Bars and drinking some Perpeteum (no closer than 2 hrs before though). I really like going for a nice breakfast after putting in the work after a race. By that time usually Bob Evans.
For those starting out need to keep in mind that the race is your “Goal”. The result or test of your hard preparation. Without that goal it’s harder to keep focused on your training.

Ashley Brancaleone

I am a physical therapist with Columbus City schools, a figure skating and hockey coach and working on my running/triathlon coaching certification. I am a mom of two very active boys, an 8-year old and 6-year old who love to work out with mom and dad, and are very involved in hockey and soccer. My husband and I both race triathlon and thanks to him, he is the reason I started the sport 13 years ago. I did my first triathlon in 2012 and raced a few races until 2013 and then took a 9 year break before coming back and racing Deer Creek in 2022. I love being active (running, boxing, cycling, swimming, hiking, lifting, etc.) and I especially love training and pushing myself to new limits. I enjoy running with my friends and the running community and also enjoy racing with friends and meeting new people.

Favorite Event: My favorite event is Deer Creek. I love the race course, especially the bike! I have raced the Olympic and the sprint and both are just as fun.

Spot me at these Races: You can find me racing at these events: Deer Creek, Ohio Fall Challenge at Deer Creek and the Great Buckeye Challenge. I will also be volunteering at a few races during the season. Keep an eye out…I may also make an appearance at American Triple T/Pleasant Valley racing or volunteering!

Favorite Song to get me pumped up: My absolute favorite pump up song is Welcome to the Jungle – Guns N’ Roses. I use it a lot during hard workouts to keep me motivated and working hard.

On my plate for a post-race meal: My post-race meal has to include French fries or potatoes, a cheeseburger and a Coke Zero.

My special race-day ritual: On race day, I always set up transition 3 times, usually 2 different ways until I finally decide on the way I like best. I’ve don’t this at every race, no matter how many times I have raced. It makes me laugh each time.

Advice for future HFP race participants: My advice for future HFP race participants is to go out there, have fun and do your best! Nothing is more rewarding than knowing you accomplished a goal/race/fear while meeting new people and potential friends along the way. If you have a fear of opening water swimming, know you are not alone. That is also my biggest fear and something I continue to overcome each race I do. If you have a fear of doing your first race, reach out to any HFP ambassador or any triathlete in your area. We are always happy to help you through your first race!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abrancaleone04

Instagram: @ash.brancaleone

Shannon Kurek
Founded Health and Fitness Promotions in 1988 (known today as HFP Racing). Handed the reins off to Craig in 2021 and continue to do whatever I can to promote triathlon and HFP Racing. Triathlon has been part of my life since the summer of 1988 and I still love it just as much today as I did then. Looking forward to racing and Lord willing, staying healthy for the entire 2025 season.
Favorite Event:
Great Buckeye Challenge. Lots of great memories from this event as the RD and as a participant. I personally raced at the GBC at its inaugural venue (Buckeye Lake @ Brooks Park) and now it returns to Caesar Creek State Park where the event moved to for a one year stand back in the day (maybe 2004) before it moved to Buck Creek State Park. I’ve raced at all the venues at least one time. Caesar Creek was the location of my very first triathlon in 1988.
Spot me at these races:
VERY EARLY
Favorite song to get me pumped-up:
Anything from Powerwolf
On my plate for a post-race meal:
Something with lots of sugar
My special race-day ritual:
I always like to be one of the first people to arrive at the race site AND love to help lead the pre-race prayer.
Advice for future HFP race participants:
Enjoy the day…not everything will go right but make it a priority to get across the finish line regardless of how your day is going. DNF’s suck!

Ashley Galownia

I love testing my physical limits, and proving that age is simply a number; not an excuse to slow down or give up on those big dreams.  I enjoy sharing my passion and love of fitness with the community, as a part-time personal trainer at the YMCA.  I have been married for 25 years to my husband, and we have a 15 year old son, and 21 year old daughter.  

Favorite Event:

I love Sprint duathlon. I also really enjoy all types of cycling so you most likely will see me at gravel events! 

Spot me at these races:

I am already signed up for the Three Rivers Gravel, and Homer Gravel is a personal favorite! 

I plan to attend Deer Creek, Pleasant Valley, and of course The Great Buckeye! 

Favorite song to get me pumped up:

Hope by NF, is a song that I relate to because it reminds me of the challenges I faced and overcame, that led me down this path as an athlete. 

On my plate post race meal:

I love Chipotle extra everything, and don’t forget the chips!

My special race day ritual:

Post race nap with my cat.

Advice to Future HFP participants:

My best advice is to have fun!  Also know your rules, and attend any clinics offered even if you are a seasoned athlete!  There is always something new to learn or possibly experiences shared that could benefit your future performances.  

Instagram: @ashly_runrideswim

Facebook: Ashly Axene Galownia 

Junior A Navarro-Bertrand

I am a dedicated athlete who loves to get everyone I know out and to get movin. I have fun competing with my cousins, be it running, soccer, or video games I love a good and fun rivalry. I work as a carpenter and most of my day is heavy lifting, but I love running and getting to spend time with my family after work.
Favorite Event: Multisport Duathlons. Triathlons are a little to difficult for me 😅 (Can’t swim well)
Spot me at these races:  Maumee Bay, Deer Creek, and maybe Buckeye or Caesar Creek
Favorite song to get me pumped-up:
Love me Again- John Newman
Wants U Back- Emma Warren
Number One(Bankai) (Ft. Hazel Fernandes) – Shiro SAGISU
On my plate for a post-race meal:
Lots of water, Hecka Candy (sweets), Fruit, et some oven baked ribs
My special race-day ritual:
Before the race begins i like to take care of “business” 🤣
Also a good and proper warm up!
Advice for future HFP race participants:
Run your own race and stay focused on your own pace. Also STAY HYDRATED! CRAMPS ARE THE WORST!!!

Audra Rooker

I have been doing HFP Races since 2018-2019, I believe is when I started! My girlfriend from high school got me into them, when she did one in Vermilion, Ohio! You can spot me at the Maumee Bay Tri-Atholon in the Toledo, Ohio Area.  My favorite song is anything by Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood or anything from the 80’s and younger!! I am a part time bus aide for my local school district. Special Day Race Food is an English Muffin sandwich with cheese, egg and some type of meet! You will see me at the OHIO HFP RACES this summer!! My advice to anyone new or wanting to try a Tri- Just Do It!! You can Do whatever you put your mind to!! 

Carl Nickels

I am an Orangetheory coach for the past 9 years at our Worthington and Upper Arlington locations! I love logging in long runs, getting in some weight lifting sessions, and going for walks with my favorite 4 legged friend, Cooper! My wife Katie is my favorite training partner, and she does not take it easy on me. 
Favorite Event: Deer Creek Triathalon!
Spot me at these races:  Deer, Creek,  Pleasant Valley, and the Great Buckeye and hopefully some more! 
Favorite song to get me pumped-up: Levels by Avicii! 
On my plate for a post-race meal: JT’s pizza 🍕 
My special race-day ritual: I like to wake up extra early, get my stretches in, and have my secret race fuel.(Welch’s fruit snacks) and listen to Zach Bryan to calm me down pre-race!
Advice for future HFP race participants: Just commit to your first race! There is never a PERFECT time. Get a race on the calendar and get after it! If you need support there is no better community! 

Ethan Roberts

I am a Sophomore at West Jefferson High school. I like to run track and xc with my friends as well as helping around my church and going to summer camps. I also like to hike and ski.

Favorite Event: Sprint Dualathalon 

Spot me at these races: Deer creek Duathlon, The Great Buckeye Challenge, Fall Challenge

Favorite song to get me pumped-up: Higher by Creed

On my plate for a post-race meal: Everything I can find

Advice for future HFP race participants: Leave some in the tank for the last leg

Teresa Fontana

This is my 4th season as a triathlete and I am running proof you can start this at any age. I love the excitement and energy of race day! It’s exhilarating and truly makes you feel unstoppable at any pace. Looking forward to another thrilling season with HFP!  See you at the races!

Roman Mitchell 
Favorite Event: Triple T!
Spot me at these races: American Triple T, Tri the Land, Portage Lakes, and Dirty Yeti.
Favorite song to get me pumped up: Pull the Trigger by Flux Pavillion
  • But my walk-out song (which should be implemented at races) at races would be: No More Sorrow by Linkin Park or Here’s to the Heartache by NOTHING MORE
  • This could totally be a thing for people who have had a winning season!
  • ”Born in Perrysburg, Ohio, raised in Celina, Ohio, Obtained his undergrad degree from The Ohio State University, and is now getting his Doctoral degree from Youngstown State University, a true Ohioan and long-time supporter of HFP events, we are proud to have Roman Mitchell!”

On my plate for a post-race meal: Carbs and water

My special race-day ritual: Show up late, win early

Advice for future HFP race participants: have fun, enjoy the pain, and remember the hard work you put in to get here today. I am proud of everybody here.

Emily Wiseman

I started running the week after graduating from college and the addiction has only gotten worse. I enjoy trails and pavement, have done over 20 half marathons, two full marathons and discovered multisport last summer. I travel frequently for work and I believe the best way to see a new city is with running shoes on your feet, and can often be found running before conferences early in the morning (like the time in Austin I ran to Barton Springs from the hotel, jumped in and swam as the sun came up, put my shoes back on and ran the several miles back all before 7 AM!)

Favorite Event: For road racing, half marathons are my favorite. For multi sport, I’m addicted to sprint triathlons, and the swim portion is absolutely my fave. Nothing quite like coming out of the water at the end of the swim, and charging towards transition to grab the bike.

Spot me at these races: Multiple summer events at Caesars creek, Mojo tri in August, Ohio Fall Challenge, Flying Pig marathon, and Ironman 70.3 Michigan.

Favorite song to get me pumped-up: Unstoppable by Sia is the pump up. Stompa by Serena Rider is my get through the extra mile song, and has been on my playlist since college.

On my plate for a post-race meal: Beer and a cheeseburger. Let’s be real here.

My special race-day ritual: Coffee, a piece of toast or banana with peanut butter, checking like 15 times to reassure myself that I have packed my bib.

Advice for future HFP race participants: Just do it! Go out there and have fun and know there’s an incredible community supporting you and triathlon is the most fun sport there is!

Mallory Golski
I’m a lifelong competitive swimmer turned runner turned “okay fine I’ll get on the bike and turn myself into a triathlete” who has been competing in multi-sport events since 2022. When I’m not training myself, I love being a swim coach for a couple teams in Columbus. 
Favorite event: 10K run as a standalone race distance, but the sprint distance triathlon. Both race distances feel like the perfect distance and duration for me to feel accomplished and like I pushed myself, but allow me to go about the rest of my day without crawling from couch to bed. 
Catch me at these races: Ohio Fall Challenge, always!
Favorite pump-up song: My friend and I would always listen to “Paradise” by Coldplay on the way to swim meets in high school, so that will always get me in the mood to race. It’s not an upbeat song, necessarily, but I’m usually so hyped up on nerves that I need something both triumphant and mellow to help me focus. 
Post-race meal: I love to eat Indian food! I’ll eat it any day, but I love eating it after a race because I’m hungry enough to try several dishes and make the most of the experience. I also love stopping by Little Ladies Soft Serve for an enormous ice cream sundae. 
Special race-day ritual: Getting to races usually involves being up well before the sun. So, as I’m getting my transition area set up, I like to take a few moments to watch the sunrise and take in the beauty of the day before the chaos unfolds. It helps to remind me how lucky I am to be able to be outside, moving my body and enjoying the abundant natural resources we have here in Ohio!
Advice for future HFP race participants: Take some time to chat with your fellow competitors as you’re getting ready to race! The camaraderie can help calm your nerves and it can give you some familiar faces to turn to at future races. I always love to learn more about how long people have been competing and what their multi-sport journeys have been like. It helps me realize how being a multi-sport athlete truly is a lifelong experience and it can take countless forms in that time — and it’s all epic!

Erica Clouse

Life-long runner turned multisport athlete, I’m in it for the cute kits & beer after the finish line and use running or cycling as an excuse to explore every new city I visit. Always ready to talk about training, books, animals, or crafty hobbies. Constantly debating between a new tattoo or a new race registration.

Favorite Event: Generally, any ½ Marathon. Specifically, probably the Thoroughbred Run Kildare 10K I did in Ireland

Spot me at these races: 5th Line 5K, Asheville Half Marathon, Deercreek Olympic Distance Tri, RunWild 5K, Great Buckeye Challenge, and whatever else I end up signing up for!

Favorite song to get me pumped-up: Everybody Loves Me, One Republic

On my plate for a post-race meal: The biggest container of take-out Hibachi I can find, extra steak, extra zucchini

My special race-day ritual: Early morning coffee (IYKYK), 10 minute warm up on my Peloton before leaving the house & singing along to showtunes as loud as I can on the drive to the race location.

Advice for future HFP race participants: Multisport is SO fun, so have fun! Ask every question you have, find a kit that makes you feel awesome, and absolutely practice the open water swim in your wetsuit before race day.  

Social Links: 

Wesley Keyes

I am a kid who that follows in the footsteps of my dad and love the triathlon community and am excited to be and HFP ambassador this season.

Favorite Event: Deer Creek Tri. love this one because it is the first race of the year and I love getting to meet new people.

Spot me at these races: HFP triathlons that my dad are doing

Favorite song to get me pumped-up. “The Drink Don’t Need No Mix” By Shaboozey

On my plate for a post-race meal: Lots of watermelon

My special race-day ritual: Getting to the race way too early.

Advice for future HFP race participants: Continue the training…even when it gets hard, it’s worth it in the end.

Rick Terry
I am a dad/husband/athlete who found his first multi-sport race with HFP in 2019. I found triathlons in 2019 with the HFP series and have been involved every year since as a participant and volunteer. I enjoy everything from mini-triathlons to ultra racing, and am honored to have my wife support me at every race. 
HFP gave me a safe place see how much I could accomplish as a new athlete when I started and there is nothing more rad to me than to see and welcome the new athlete on race day. I look forward to this season and if you see me at an aid station or at the start line – Be sure to say “Hi!”. You may not know me, but I’m one of your biggest fans out there. 
Favorite Event: 
Queen City Triathlon – The first time I did this race I walked almost every hill on the bike course. I just kept showing up every year and made it to the top of a few more hills each time. Eventually, I nailed every rolling hill on that course! Now I show up each year to show it who’s boss. 
Spot me at these races:  Anything at Deer Creek, Buck Creek, and Caesar Creek! Find me at the trail races too!!
Favorite song to get me pumped-up: Thunderstruck – AC/DC 
On my plate for a post-race meal: Rooster’s Wings!
Advice for future HFP race participants: Come to the start line knowing you will finish. Believe in yourself, your training, and that you can do hard things. It’s a gift to be able to race. Embrace it and don’t stop until you cross that finish line, no matter how long it takes. 
Matt Engstrom
I am an ex  HS/college/ old man runner who likes to ride bikes in place of some easy running mileage because easy mileage is boring and going fast on bikes is fun! I am also a PE teacher for two elementary schools. But my favorite title is dad to my almost two year old son Lucas who also has enjoyed our stroller runs (our PR in a stroller 5k is 17:58)
Favorite Event: sprint duathlon
Spot me at these races: OU duathlon, state championships, portage lakes and dirty yeti! Maybe more
Favorite song to get me pumped-up: fortunate son because who doesn’t love some CCR
On my plate for a post-race meal: whatever I can get my hands on first. Usually paired with a beer or several…
My special race-day ritual: none really, just show up and go for a ride
Advice for future HFP race participants: my advice for future participants is that there’s more than one way to have success in multi sports. You don’t have to measure power, HR, and so on. Just going out to swim, bike, run every day is huge

Zach Keyes

I am a passionate endurance athlete who uses racing and training as my playground. I am a father/husband/teacher/coach.

Favorite Event: My favorite event last year was the Pleasant Valley Triathlon.  You get to start the day with a fun swim around a giant inflatable in the middle of the swim course.  Then you go on a wild roller coaster of twists and turns on the bike and finish it with a run through the campgrounds.

Spot me at these races:  HFP Ohio triathlon race series

Favorite song to get me pumped up: Thunderstruck AC/DC

On my plate for a post-race meal: Coffee protein shake mix

My special race-day ritual: Lots of caffeine and lots of trips to the bathroom before the race

Advice for future HFP race participants: Have fun no matter what happens.  Be kind to yourself when you have that voice in your head that says you don’t belong know that this is something you get to do and have a grateful mindset.

 

Instagram @keyeszach

Facebook Zach Keyes

Strava Zach Keyes

Youtube @zachkeyes908

X @Zachkeyes4

Maren Knaus

I’ve been a fitness enthusiast and athlete for over 25 years and have a passion for health and wellness. From running, biking, swimming, yoga, and strength training I’ve done quite a bit over the years. What I love most though, is meeting new faces and being surrounded by a motivational racing and fitness minded community. 

Favorite Event: Any events at Deer creek!

Spot me at these races:  Deer Creek, Queen City, the Great Buckeye Challenge 

Favorite song to get me pumped-up: Tick Tick Boom by Sage the Gemini 

On my plate for a post-race meal:  A turkey sandwich, chips and a coke.

My special race-day ritual:  Only settling for the best pre race nutrition! Lots of coffee to get the caffeine flowing and my secret special oatmeal concoction.

Advice for future HFP race participants: Start where you are – Everyone begins somewhere. Whether you’re a strong swimmer, biker, or runner—or none of the above—progress is what counts. Celebrate the small victories!

FB: Maren Bauerle Knaus

Instagram: bauerlm