Tri-athlete Profile: Allison Parker

Allison chose the Blue Lake Triathlon, June 14, as her first event. Although she hates running, she figures a triathlon would be a great way to compliment her swimming and biking abilities. "I was on the swim team my whole childhood, and, while I have always biked, I definitely got more into it since I moved to Portland." Actually, the Portland bike scene leads to her favorite part about biking - the nods you get from fellow bikers on the road. "It gives you a real feeling of camaraderie."

Allison usually trains about four to six days a week. Because baby Avery is not in daycare, Allison runs with her in a stroller and the dog in tow. She sneaks in biking and swimming right after her husband comes home from work or even takes time off from her job just to make it to the pool. As for race-day, nervous she is not. "I know I won't even come close to winning so I figure I'll do my best and that's good enough. This whole thing was mostly to prove there is time for exercise in my busy life and that I hopefully can keep finding the time even when the race is over."