FACES OF BRAVERY
ABOUT JENNIFER
Kirby’s work focuses on capturing the human experience in authentic and powerful ways with her photojournalistic style. Her stories and photography highlight the unique nature of each person.
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KC DIRT COMMUNITY
The KC Dirt Community is a female-led inclusive trail running group that doesn’t let any kind of weather slow them down. I spoke with four of their leaders – Ashley Baker, Kelly Kardon, Kim Olson and Theresa Reyes-Cummings – who are marathon and ultramarathon runners. They found each other in this supportive running community, which was once named Mud Babes. Being a part of this group is about more than being fit. It’s a way of life.
Each of the KC Dirt Community leaders have hundreds or even thousands of miles under their belt. They have run 10k and 50k races, half marathons, marathons and ultramarathons. However, each of them began simply. Ashley was looking for a hobby and community. Theresa began running to establish new habits in her life. Kelly wanted to be part of a hiking group. Kim began by going on walks during her lunch break. Their simple beginnings have become incredible journeys.
Their success stories are staggering. For example, Theresa ran a 50k every month the year she turned 50 years old. She has trained for long races by running all night. Additionally, Theresa ran the Marine Corp Marathon in Washington DC. “It’s the only lottery I’ve ever won,” she says. Through that experience she met and ran with Billy Mills – the first Native American to win an Olympic gold medal. It was such an energizing experience to her that she walked another five miles at the end of the marathon.
It would be easy to feel intimidated by such accomplished athletes. However, part of their commitment to one another is that they never leave a runner behind. They don’t judge beginners, and they don’t pressure them to keep up with the ultramarathoners. Through the KC Dirt Community, they have found a familial kind of support. In fact, Ashley has not only formed lifelong friendships through the group, she also met her husband. The support they give to one another is rooted not only in helping everyone reach their goals but in their understanding of how important movement is to everyone.
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