With the success of Coach Valerie on her own athletic career, she has decided to pass on her knowledge, these are just a few of the people that have taken the time to thank her. |
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Mary Whitwell (W 50-54)
"Coach Valerie, I don’t have the vocabulary to correctly and appropriately thank you for the wonderful experience you provided for me these past 5 months. I have achieved more than I even dreamed I could, I have regained a confidence in myself that had dissipated, and I have reveled in an adventure that was absolutely a hoot from start to finish. I have found a friend beyond measure in K.P, and I feel I have done the same with you as well. Nothing can compare to that last part.
I look forward to years of athletic challenges and I am eager to face them all in whatever form they may take. I know I will be employing you to guide me towards another race because this was so invigorating. ...we can stay in touch as “comrades in arms,” women who will NOT go gracefully into their “middle age” but who march into it with the pride and knowledge that life truly gets only better if you are open to the possibilities.
Just to complete a half ironman was a mere possibility when we started this. Thanks to your tremendous talent as a mentor, constant contact and reassurance, and ability to make us each feel like we were the only athlete on the planet, it has been accomplished.
Mary Whitwell |
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Anne Viviani (14:40:45)
Coach Val what can I say? You are a magician and your coaching is truly amazing. I look back on that phone call in August when I asked you to help me reach my dream goal – to complete Ironman Hawaii just 10 – ½ weeks away. You not only agreed, but you held my hand as I trained, never giving up ……and we not only finished, but I completed this extraordinary triathlon 15 minutes faster than my time 10 years ago! Thank you from the bottom of my heart”
Anne Viviani |
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2007 Duke Liver Half Ironman 2nd fastest split (women) of the day.
2:44:28 (20.43 mph)
Coach Valerie,
Where do I begin? I have learned a ton from you as trainer and as a friend. Remember, in 2005, you helped me buy my first bike! You were there for my first rides, teaching and offering advice. There's something to be said for staring out with a veteran rider, i.e., starting out right, not developing bad habits, and being safe all the while. I no doubt owe alot to you.
Many thanks,
KP |
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- 2007 Las Vegas Marathon
“Thank you Coach Valerie for helping me to achieve what I thought impossible, and to do it with/for all those who could not. This has changed my life forever.”
With only two months to train, White contacted Chicago-based marathon coach, Valerie Ellsworth Gattis, who created a custom weekly training schedule for White. The training included running approximately 40 miles a week, cycling and weight lifting. “Of all the activities, my favorite was running,” said White. “And my favorite place to run was down the tree-covered streets of Hills Center Drive. The picturesque setting was calming to my spirit despite the physical demands of training for a marathon.” White claims her new goal is to run a marathon every year. “It’s a great achievement, especially at this stage of my life,” she said. “Despite my aches and pains, I can honestly say I am looking forward to my next marathon.”
Maria White, dedicated her run in the Las Vegas Marathon to loved ones who have passed away during the last five years as well as women over the age of 50. She finished strong with a time of 05:07:40. |
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