Our first Athlete Spotlight of 2025!!!! Fitting we shine the light on Darlene Goode, who just joined the team! If you know her, you know she almost always has that bright shiny smile on her face!!!!! And talk about determination, this talented lady never gives up. We are so lucky to have her as a team mate! If you haven’t had a chance to meet her, make some time. You will be hard-pressed to find anyone who loves cycling, running, animals, or kindness more than Darlene.
WHEN DID YOU JOIN VALHALLA + VALKYRIE RACE TEAM?
December 2024 ( why did I wait so long?)
December 2024 ( why did I wait so long?)
WHEN DID YOU START TRIATHLON?
I started triathlon around 2007.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR TRIATHLON JOURNEY:
I was an absolute pure runner (started in 2000 at age 39 to run my first marathon at Disney 2001 ) but kept getting stress fractures from running 5 days a week.
In 2006 we moved from Fl. To ATL I decided to get a bike and cross train. I did my first duathlon and loved it. Placed 1st in my first race. Then I got talked into a triathlon but I couldn’t swim (a fish I am not) . Luckily my first race was only 200 yards of swimming and I was still last out of the water. Unbelievable but placed in my AG. That was in 2007. I have competed in so many races all over the world including sprints, Olympics, Aquabike, Duathlon , swimming events, 3 Half IM and only one 140.6 and loved each and every one.. well except the Inaugural 2015 Vietnam 70.3 that one was love/hate …114 degrees but I finished and have great memories.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE RACE?
Probably Challenge Taiwan 140.6 as Jan Frodeno told me I was first in my age group as he put the medal around my neck! Priceless!
Close 1st was the Boston marathon 2011.
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST ACCOMPLISHMENT IN THiS SPORT?
My biggest accomplishment has to be qualifying for the Boston marathon. It took 8 years of never giving up . I had so many injuries my family and friends thought I was crazy. Now they know once I set my mind, there’s no stopping me.
2nd would be only training for 6 months and being able to finish an IM and come in 1St AG .
WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE?
Injuries, I have had more than my share. I have had 13 stress fractures since 2003. But most recently, major injuries sustained when I got hit by a truck on 1486 while on my bike. This was 12/23/21. It’s been a very long excruciating journey spanning 2 years. Some of my injuries are permanent but I find ways to work around that. I am grateful that I have a strong will and drive!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE POST RACE FOOD?
Not so much a food but I always carry a chocolate protein shake in a cooler for after every race. Years ago, after marathons, when I could eat it , pizza of course with a side of beer!
TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY.
My husband and I have been together 30 years and will be celebrating our 24th anniversary in June. I have 2 younger sisters and 2 older brothers that are all of my biggest supporters and cheerleaders.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR PROFESSIONAL/PERSONAL LIFE.
I have worked in many areas of the medical (oncology) and dental (oral surgery), chiropractic fields. But also have a long history as a bartender for 17 years in Savannah. Currently looking for a part time job “stress less” job.
WHAT IS SOMETHING NO ONE WOULD EVER GUESS/KNOW ABOUT YOU?
My gosh I am an open book. But probably that I used to sing in a band back in the 80’s.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS TEAM?
My favorite thing about this team is the camaraderie. The woman are truly inspirational and badass. I am a huge fan of so many in this group. And once intimidated I truly feel like I fit in.
WHO IS YOUR FAVORITE AUTHOR?
Daryl Gioffre, his book saved my life!
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANT?
I love Salada and Olive Oil
WHO IS YOUR BIGGEST INSPIRATION?
Probably my close friend Grace Kwong in Hong Kong. She talked me into trying for our first IM distance. I was skeptical with my injury background but she convinced me I could do it. And we did we trained for 6 months , practically joined at the hip and finished. I will never top that 1st place ever again so it’s quite special.
WHAT EXCITING PLANS DO YOU HAVE FOR THE NEXT YEAR?
Trying to find a part-time job and balance training and work again. I have a lot of races that were deferred from last year so hopefully I can make it to the start line of each and every one.
ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE?
I am a Humpty Dumpty but I never give up no matter what life throws my way. When you are passionate in all you do it’s so simple. We are blessed to do what we love so live life to the fullest! This is truly a gift.
