Current City: Fort Wayne, IN

Age: 38

Division: Open and Submaster

Years as a Vegan: 9

Why you became a vegan: After being vegetarian for years, I started to educate myself on the dairy industry. Around the same time, I was researching diets for improved recovery time, since I was an endurance athlete. These both led me to a plant-based diet. I quickly realized the benefits and why a cruelty-free lifestyle is the only option for me.

Favorite foods/meals: A vegan sub loaded up with lots of toppings is my all-time favorite meal. I also love fruits, veggies, pizza, tacos, salad, and pretty much anything seitan. I’m not huge on sweets but I will never pass up a vegan donut.

Favorite exercises: Squat, deadlift, and anything shoulders or arms.