Q&A with Gina Kehr

GU ATHLETE: Gina “GK” Kehr
SPORT: Triathlon
BIRTHPLACE: Mission Hills, California, 1969
CURRENT RESIDENCE: Redwood City, California
WEBSITE: www.ginakehr.com
VIDEO: View Gina Kehr's Interview Video

Proudest athletic accomplishment?
After dropping out of one race, the very next race I did I was in last place. It took everything I had not to drop out. I finished the race and I finished last. I believe if I had dropped out, I would not be as tough as I am today.

Superstitions for training or competition?
I wouldn’t say it is a superstition but I now train from my gut rather than from a schedule. I wake up each day and decide what feels right to do that day and at what intensity.

What’s the strangest thing a spectator has ever said to you while you were racing?
When I dropped from 2nd to 3rd at Ironman Hawaii someone yelled the amount of money I had just lost.

What characteristics do you most respect in your competitors?
Quiet confidence and fair play.

If you were not a pro athlete, what would you do professionally?
I’d be a sports psychologist.

When you were a kid, what did you dream of becoming when you grew up?
A veterinarian.

Song title that best fits your personality/spirit?
I can’t say there is a specific song; actually I should say I am afraid to admit the many that come to mind! Let’s just say I love funny hip hop songs with a great beat…

How do you reward yourself when you reach a key goal?
Sometimes a great meal, sometimes buying something either I have wanted or the family has wanted.

If you were a contestant on Survivor, what would be your one comfort item from home?
Pictures of my kids and hubby

If you were stranded on a desert island, what flavor of GU would you want with you?
Roctane, so I can be “on” all the time to survive!

What’s the most creative way you’ve ever carried your GU?
Under the shoulder straps or down the front of my race top.

Personal causes you’re involved in?
Jenny’s Light

Three things people don’t know about you?
I am related to Johnny Indresano - a professional boxer who was a body guard for Marilyn Monroe. My alter ego is a fly girl for MC Hammer. In 2004 I was inducted into the San Francisco State Hall of Fame for Swimming (1987-88 and 1988-89).