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Member Highlight – Kelly Fuson

June 1, 2022 by Steve Woo Leave a Comment

Intro by Steve Woo

Some people try to avoid obstacles, while others see them as a challenge but only something they need to take on once, and never to do again. Then there’s those who choose to face the same obstacles over and over again – that’s Kelly Fuson and one of the first things I learned about her. Yes, she’s into OCR (obstacle course racing) – big time. 

While it seems like Kelly has been a part of DPMR for longer, it was only about a year ago that she showed up at the first DPMR newbies run of the season looking to get more running in, but also to connect and immerse herself in the community. Over the past year, she’s done just that, and has been among the most active first year members with her presence at DPMR events from runs to races to volunteering. I’ve had the pleasure to get to know her over this past year not just as an athlete/runner but the person she is.

As you will quickly find, running is just a part of what Kelly does to stay active. While she will drop in on anything from a 5K to 50K trail race, her primary focus is OCR and specifically Spartan series racing of which she is a seasoned veteran having competed in 36 races and counting (she plans to do 8 this year!). She’s also all in as an avid climber and snowboarder (who put me to shame for number of days we put on our passes!). 

Inside the athlete, is a genuine and giving person with a good heart who is loyal to her friends and the causes she believes in. What sticks in my memory is DPMR’s first trail clean up day last year on Brockway Summit, where Kelly was noticeably one of the few, if only newbie members to show up and volunteer. She actually reminded me about it that morning and got me to go just as I was heading out for a run!  That morning we watched her pull a giant object out of the forest – an old discarded TV!  We joked it was just OCR training for her! (google Atlas Ball or Bucket Carry). We laughed about it over lunch and then she was off to fulfill another commitment to meet up with a friend at Palisades! 

Beyond the running community and trails, you’ll see Kelly supporting other great causes and contributing to other areas within our community as well, including the Humane Society along with her pup Pixel.

When she’s not conquering obstacle courses, running, climbing, or chasing pow, Kelly’s juggling time zones as a global marketer for one of the largest companies in the world, and rallying friends for theme parties and trivia nights.

If you’re considering jumping into a Spartan race, Kelly’s our resident expert. But be careful – if you bring it up, she’ll rope you in! I had the pleasure of spectating her at the Palisades Spartan race. It was inspirational to watch her run, climb things, throw spears, and carry massive weighted objects!  (Yes, she’s holding me to my commitment to do one.)

A well balanced, dedicated, and determined individual, it is such a great pleasure to have Kelly as part of DPMR and as a friend.

Kelly doing the Bucket Carry in the Hawaii Spartan Race

Where are you from and where do you live now?

I was born and raised in Sacramento, CA and I feel so lucky to now be living in Truckee which was always a fun place to visit growing up.

When did you begin running and/or long-distance running, if that applies? Why?

I’ve been a runner for as long as I can remember. I loved doing the mile run in school and I was always faster than the other girls so when I was in 8th grade my PE teacher let me run the mile with the boys, which of course was an opportunity for other kids to tease me, but it didn’t stop me from loving the sport. I started running competitively in high school when I joined the XC team and specialized in the 800 meter race in track and field. I took a break from running in college but picked it back up in my twenties which is when I decided to try my hand at half and full marathons.

Do you race? Does racing motivate you? If not racing, what motivates you?

Yes I love to race! I’ve never been the fastest but I’m always the most reliable. I often have other racers tell me at the end that they were unofficially using me as their pacer. I like challenging myself and inspiring others.

Kelly on her way to clearing the Tyrolean Traverse at the 2021 North Lake Tahoe Spartan race at Palisades. Photo credit: Steve Woo

Do you have any dream races (either hoping to qualify for or get selected for)?

I would like to do more races in Europe. I’ve done the Prague and Vienna half marathons and aside from making sure I don’t trip on the cobblestone I really loved the passion that Europeans bring to the sport and the scenery that you get to run through.

Do you have a favorite on-trail food or nutrition strategy and favorite post-run meal or beverage?

For ultra running I try my best to eat “real” food and my go-to trail snack is a rolled up tortilla with peanut butter. I’ve never had any trouble eating while running thankfully, let’s be honest, food is why I run! My favorite post-run beverage is milk chocolate and you can’t go wrong with a good cheeseburger. My nutrition strategy depends on the length of the race, the terrain, and the weather, but in general I try to consume calories every 3 miles or 45 minutes. I have done a few races where I didn’t bring enough calories and there’s nothing worse than hearing your stomach growl and getting a little lightheaded when you’re just a few miles from the finish.

Do you have a favorite recipe to share?

I’m not much of a cook, I like to stick with the basics, and my favorite pre-race breakfast is hot oatmeal with a heaping spoonful of peanut butter and a dash of honey.

What was your favorite running experience this past year? 

I managed to make it back to Oahu, Hawaii for the Spartan race in August and it’s the most stunning race venue I’ve been to. It takes place at the Kualoa Ranch where they’ve filmed a bunch of movies including Jurassic Park and you run by a lot of the movie props throughout the course, including giant dinosaur bones!

What was your most challenging/ character-building experience this past year?

The Broken Arrow Skyrace is always a humbling experience. I thought that living in Truckee full time would give me an advantage, and I suppose on a small scale it did, but the course never fails to test your willpower and risk tolerance. Downhill is where I shine, but with the new course that took us down the rocky single track, I spent almost as much time on the downhill as the uphill for fear of tripping. I’ve seen people trip and split open their heads on that trail before and it’s hard to keep that visual out of my mind.

What are your upcoming racing/adventure plans?

I’m headed back to Montana in early May to do the Spartan Beast in Big Fork. It takes place on an Elk preserve and it’s very rugged terrain (I got lost the last time I did it in 2019). I’m also doing the back-to-back Super/Sprint Spartan races in Monterey in early June, which is always a favorite in California that the pros usually show up for. That should all prepare me well for a regularly-scheduled Broken Arrow 26k in mid-June, followed by a brief break before fall races.

What do you do for a living? Is it hard to fit in time for training?

I work in the field of channel marketing for Nest smart home products. It historically involved a lot of travel across the globe which made training difficult. Thankfully I’m able to bring my full self to work and my colleagues know that I’m an athletic person and are understanding when I block off a long lunch or late afternoon to get in a run before it gets dark outside. Every now and then I’m able to convince them to take a HIIT class with me as well.

What led you to join DPMR? 

I first learned about DPMR when I did the Racing Gnome Snowshoe Race several years ago. They seemed like a really fun and seasoned group that took running seriously but was also open to welcoming newcomers. It’s been really fun to be a bigger contributor to the group since moving to Truckee full time in 2020.

What has been your favorite DPMR experience so far?

The newbie runs have been my favorite experience so far because it has been a chance to meet new people and check out trails that I haven’t been to before. I also appreciate that it caters to all levels and isn’t intimidating.

Favorite local trail?

I really like the section of the PCT after Mt Lincoln, especially in June when the wildflowers are growing and you pass by all of the backpackers who have been on the trail for days. It’s fun to know that you made it that far on your own two feet and a hydration vest while they are carrying 35 lbs+ backpacks.

Do you have a mental training technique, mantra, or similar that you rely on to combat the mentally trying times of a longer run? 

When I get hit with mental fatigue or boredom I try to focus really hard on form and I pick a spot and tell myself I’m going to run to that spot, and then when I get to that spot I say, that wasn’t hard, let’s pick a new spot! And I keep that up until it passes and I’m able to take a nutrition break or catch a new view.

Do you listen to audio while you run and if so, what have you been enjoying lately?

I am hardcore about needing some form of audio while on a training run, although I’m fine without it during an actual race. I tend to listen to music on longer runs but stick with podcasts for shorter runs. For a quick afternoon ~3 mile run I’ll listen to the WSJ daily news which the morning and evening sessions are the perfect duration for that distance.

Recovery technique(s) that you swear by? 

Ice baths! I take ice baths religiously anytime I run farther than 13 miles. The only catch now is that my bathroom is on the third floor of my house and it’s a lot of stairs to haul bags of ice, in which case a quick dip in Donner Lake will suffice.

Do you have a favorite piece of running gear (sports bra, shoe, layer, sock, etc.)? 

I’m a huge fan of compression sleeves in lieu of long sleeve shirts. I heat up pretty quickly while running and I love being able to easily peel them off and roll them back up as the conditions change. Everyone should own at least a couple pairs, one thin and one thick, just like socks!

What other outdoor or indoor interests do you have?

Rock climbing is my other passion and how I like to crosstrain. It has a lot of similarties to running in terms of the meditative state you can enter and the flow that happens when your training is paying off. And because my focus over the past 4-5 years has been on OCR (obstacle course racing) it’s really helped me become a more well-rounded athlete with a combination of endurance and strength.

Any interesting facts about yourself you would like to share?

I got a tattoo on my foot of XXVI.II to commemorate my second full marathon. I told myself I had to do at least two before getting it, and thankfully I did three more after that!

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2023 Pt. Mariah Trail Marathon

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Join us on Aug 5, 2023!
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Sep
26
Tue
6:00 pm DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Sep 26 @ 6:00 pm – 7:15 pm
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout @ Alibi Public House, Truckee @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Keep an eye on Facebook for updates and cancellation due to weather.  Photo credit: Steve Woo These runs will depart from the Trout Creek Pocket Park, northwest corner of Bridge and Jiboom St (at the[...]
Sep
28
Thu
6:00 pm Evening Speed-work with Martin @ TBD
Evening Speed-work with Martin @ TBD
Sep 28 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Evening Speed-work with Martin @ TBD
Join us for for Thursday evening speedwork for runner’s of all levels. Run starts at 6pm.  Workout will be about an hour and can be adjusted to your level. Location TBD. Keep an eye on[...]
Oct
3
Tue
6:00 pm DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Oct 3 @ 6:00 pm – 7:15 pm
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout @ Alibi Public House, Truckee @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Keep an eye on Facebook for updates and cancellation due to weather.  Photo credit: Steve Woo These runs will depart from the Trout Creek Pocket Park, northwest corner of Bridge and Jiboom St (at the[...]
Oct
5
Thu
6:00 pm Evening Speed-work with Martin @ TBD
Evening Speed-work with Martin @ TBD
Oct 5 @ 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Evening Speed-work with Martin @ TBD
Join us for for Thursday evening speedwork for runner’s of all levels. Run starts at 6pm.  Workout will be about an hour and can be adjusted to your level. Location TBD. Keep an eye on[...]
Oct
10
Tue
6:00 pm DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout... @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Oct 10 @ 6:00 pm – 7:15 pm
DPMR Weekly Social Run & Hangout @ Alibi Public House, Truckee @ Trout Creek Pocket Park
Keep an eye on Facebook for updates and cancellation due to weather.  Photo credit: Steve Woo These runs will depart from the Trout Creek Pocket Park, northwest corner of Bridge and Jiboom St (at the[...]
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dpmrunners

Join @healdsburgrunningcompany for a run (and plen Join @healdsburgrunningcompany for a run (and plenty of fun)!

📍 : @donnerskiranch 
⏰ : Saturday September 16th, 8am
🏃‍♀️ 🏃‍♂️ : Judah Loop and continue on the PCT.
Run the Judah loop for ~6 miles, continue to Anderson peak for ~13miles (or further on the PCT if you want to go longer)
🗺️ : https://www.strava.com/routes/3135724872218937730
🎉 : Rejoin at the Donner Ski Ranch Old 40 Bar & Grill after the run (and there may be some sweeeeet giveaways...).
🙋‍♀️ : The Judah Loop is a trail adopted and actively maintained by DPMR as part of @truckeetrails' Adopt a Trail program

#unafraid #trailrunning #runningcommunity #runninglife #runningmotivation #donnerpartymountainrunners #tahoe #tahoerunners #mountainrunners #DPMR #TruckeeTahoeTrailRunning #WeRunTrails #ultrarunning #lakesonoma #lakesonoma100k
Who's psyched for the Pt Mariah Trail Marathon TOM Who's psyched for the Pt Mariah Trail Marathon TOMORROW?!! DPMR is so excited to bring you this second edition of the race that promises to be bigger and better than last year! RD Chris Cloyd and team have been working so hard all week with final prep. The course is in great shape with some beautiful fun flowy singletrack. He said he'd love a few more volunteers so checkout the signup genius on our volunteer page, but otherwise wants everyone to please come hang out, cheer, and join the party! 
Unique to this race is the 5 segment course that utilizes a central aid station and can be done as a 2 person or 5 person relay, in addition to challenging yourself to run the whole thing solo!
Registration is still OPEN in person until 6pm tonight with bib pick-up at @tahoemountainsports with reg remaining open online til 1159pm. Race day bib pickup available in the morning 6-730am. No Race Day Reg. 

Thanks to our amazing sponsors this year, every participant will be eligible for a prize giveaway and get a pair of @darntoughvermont socks and @drinklmnt hydration.

#unafraid #trailrunning #runningcommunity #runninglife #runningmotivation #donnerpartymountainrunners #tahoe #tahoerunners #mountainrunners #DPMR #TruckeeTahoeTrailRunning #WeRunTrails #ultrarunning #trailmarathon #trailrace #pointmariah #pointmariahtrailmarathon
Hey DPMRers!  We’ve got something special in th Hey DPMRers!  We’ve got something special in the works.  We’ve been collaborating with Alibi Ale Works to release a co-branded beer (YES!).   Join us for a social run next Tuesday, where we'll have the pleasure of running alongside Alibi's head brewer, Matt Garcia! We'll hit the trails together, and afterward, we'll gather at Alibi to brainstorm the perfect brew that represents our club.  And since the DPMR Pt. Mariah Trail Marathon is just around the corner, we're adding some extra fun to the mix. We'll also be assembling course markings during the event. It's going to be an unforgettable night! Hope to see you there!
🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ Calling All Running Ent 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ Calling All Running Enthusiasts! Join Us in Supporting the DPMR Pt. Mariah Trail Marathon! 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️
The Pt. Mariah Trail Marathon is just around the corner, and we need YOUR help to make it a roaring success! 🌟 This incredible event brings together the running community and showcases the determination and passion of athletes from all walks of life. Now, we are seeking volunteers to be an essential part of this memorable experience!
📅 Event Date: August 5th
⏰ Volunteer Dates: Several different shifts available from August 2nd - August 6th
🤝 We firmly believe that it takes a village to organize events like these, and YOU can be a crucial part of this vibrant community effort! No prior experience is required—just bring your enthusiastic spirit, and we'll guide you every step of the way.
📍 Positions Available:
1️⃣ Course Marking: Help ensure that the runners stay on track and have a smooth route to follow.
2️⃣ Finish Line Support: Cheer on our amazing athletes as they cross the finish line and celebrate their achievements.
3️⃣ Course Marshals: Guide and assist participants at key points along the trail, offering encouragement and direction.
4️⃣ Timing Assistance: Play a vital role in accurately recording race times and ensuring accurate results.
... and more! There are plenty of opportunities to contribute to the success of the marathon.
🌟 Not only will you have a fantastic time being part of this incredible event, but you'll also have the chance to bond with fellow running enthusiasts, make new friends, and create lasting memories.
💪 Together, let's show the world the power of community and support in making this marathon an unforgettable experience for everyone involved!
And remember, volunteering for a full shift earns you Volunt(HERO) credit towards the drawing for a YEAR OF FREE RACING (up to $1000) from DPMR!
Sign up here for a volunteer shift today! Link in bio.
Thanks to everyone who came out and volunteered at Thanks to everyone who came out and volunteered at the Diamond Peak aid station this weekend at the Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Runs.  Everyone out on the course really appreciated all of the support!!! Stay tuned, we will be posting the Volunt(hero) leaderboard soon!  In the meantime, we're seeking more incredible volunteers to join our team at the upcoming Pt. Mariah trail marathon, and we promise it'll be an experience you won't forget! 😄
Sign up today! No experience needed. Link in bio.
The heat is on! Our Volunt(hero) program is going The heat is on! Our Volunt(hero) program is going strong with more than 60 volunteers out helping runners get through our various aid stations this year. What is the Volunt(hero) program? The top 10 DPMR volunteers with the most hours logged in 2023 will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win free race entries for a year, up to $1000. We will be posting our leaderboard soon but only a few hours separate those at the top.  Adding a shift can catapult you in to one of the coveted top 10 spots to be included in the raffle.  So come and join us THIS WEEKEND out at TRT! There are still openings overnight, morning clean up Sunday, and sweeps for TRT (Double points for morning clean up).
All volunteers that work at least one 6 hour shift will be entered in to our lottery for a race entry in to the 2024 TRTER race. You get one entry for each 6 hour shift you work. Overnight shifts get a bonus with two entries! Winners of the lottery can choose the distance but 100 milers still must have a qualifying race.
And remember, volunteering for a full shift earns you Volunt(HERO) credit towards the drawing for a YEAR OF FREE RACING (up to $1000) from DPMR! 🔥🔥🔥
Sign up here for a volunteer shift today! 🙏🏻 Link in bio for more info!
Meet DPMR Board President, Diane Frederic! Diane h Meet DPMR Board President, Diane Frederic! Diane has been a DPMR member since the inaugural year (2014).  She has been a board member for 5 years with the last 3 at the helm. Diane loves a good joke and believes life is a whole lot better if you don’t take things too seriously.  She also believes that trail time is best shared with dogs and friends. And friends with dogs.  Diane is a recovering graphic designer but will come out of retirement for a good race logo opportunity (thank the cosmic forces for that!). Diane will be out on the course for the TRT100 next weekend - so if you see her out there, give her a big hello and high-five! Good luck Diane! #unafraid #dpmr #girlboss #100miler #paincave #yougotthis
Hey friends! DPMR is on the hunt for a trail-runni Hey friends! DPMR is on the hunt for a trail-running-obsessed artist extraordinaire to transform our boring old 3D foam sign for Pt. Mariah into a mind-blowing piece of art. Picture this: foam sculpture meets artistic genius equals immortalizing Pt. Mariah in your artistry.  The project consists of 30” letters, which are 4” thick, and spell Pt. Mariah.  The letters can be picked up in Truckee after Jul 3rd and need to be complete by August 3rd. This is a commissioned project with a budget of $500. 

Are you ready to unleash your creative beast? Then don't hesitate! Slide into our DMs faster than a trail runner chasing a PR. Don't miss out on this opportunity to create something truly legendary.
The Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Runs are almost here The Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Runs are almost here!!  Please consider volunteering with us.  We have many shifts available from Friday, July 14th through Sunday, July 16th! 
All volunteers that work at least one 6 hour shift will be entered in to our lottery for a race entry in to the 2024 TRTER race. You get one entry for each 6 hour shift you work. Overnight shifts get a bonus with two entries! Winners of the lottery can choose the distance but 100 milers still must have a qualifying race.
And remember, volunteering for a full shift earns you Volunt(HERO) credit towards the drawing for a YEAR OF FREE RACING (up to $1000) from DPMR! 🔥🔥🔥

Sign up here for a volunteer shift today! 🙏🏻
Link in bio for more information. 

P.S. If you are racing, let us know so we can cheer you on!!
What are you waiting for? Register today to take p What are you waiting for? Register today to take part in a unique, fun, multi-loop style course with five segments that tour different parts of the Royal Gorge land. Race solo, with a partner, or as a 5-person team!  There is something for everyone! Register today! Link in bio.
Congratulations to Courtney Dauwalter on absolutel Congratulations to Courtney Dauwalter on absolutely shattering the women’s course record at Western States 100 today! Such an inspiration to all. We know you are the GOAT but tell us the truth Courtney… is your secret weapon the DPMR pancakes?!?
Huge congrats to Tom Evans for his win at Western Huge congrats to Tom Evans for his win at Western States 100 just now. Incredible performance landing him the 4th fastest time in the history of the event!  Well done Tom!
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