Jessica Popma, age 32, is a Huntington Bank employee who is competing in her third consecutive Grand Rapids Triathlon. Jessica works as a Teller Supervisor at the Alpine branch and has been with Huntington Bank for four years.
Q: When/How did you get started in triathlons?
In 2012 a couple friends asked me to compete in an all women’s triathlon with them, so I did and loved it!
Q: What’s your favorite discipline and why?
My favorite is probably the bike. For me, it is the easiest discipline and I really like the breeze you get when you are on the bike I find it sort of relaxing.
Q: What was your triathlon highlight moment?
My greatest triathlon moment so far was finishing the MiTi half in 2013! It has been the longest and hardest race thus far!
Q: What’s been your greatest challenge?
Swimming! I have never been someone to swim for exercise and have to force myself to include swimming to my training.
Q: What does your weekly training schedule look like?
Swim, bike, run, and repeat!
Q: Any pre-race rituals?
I really don’t have any crazy rituals but do make sure I eat a good dinner and get a good nights rest!
Q: Who inspires you?
I am inspired by my crazy wonderful boys who are 10 and 7! There is nothing better than seeing them on the race course cheering me on! And to know that I am teaching them to live healthy active lives!
Q: How do you reward yourself after hard training or tough races?
I always find some way to reward myself usually with a good nap when I get home followed by a really good lunch or dinner of my choice!
Q: What are your race goals for 2015?
My race goals are for me to finish and of course to try for better than the year before.
