"Kate's Why" - Chapter Two

We know the challenge. We know the person.

“Because I have nothing to lose.”

Kate Raphael never thought that she would find herself chasing an Olympic Trials Qualifying time (OTQ). She thought that OTQs were reserved for people with sponsorships and crop tops - her words, I assure you. Coming off of a college season ending in the spring 2018, Kate’s race calendar took on a similar track to most post-collegiate athletes. Kate competed in a fall cross country season before changing gears to indoor season in the winter, including the 5k and 3k.

With almost no prodding, encouragement, or strain, Kate agreed to take on her debut marathon with this squad in June, almost one year after graduating from college. She may say that I convinced her over a beer; a truth we may never know.

Kate defines growth through the unknown and the uncharted; A void is an opportunity for gains in her mind. She recalled that her jump up to steeple chase in her junior year of college was one of the greatest challenges and reaped immeasurable results for her as a runner. A debut marathon is no different. Embracing and thriving in ambiguity is Kate’s value add to this team. She knows what she doesn’t know — and she’s ok with that.

“2:45 is dreaming really big and wanting to get it done with this group. Whatever the outcome is, It’s about the journey.”

Listen to her whole interview: