For Tuesdays with Toyota, we are spotlighting some of USATF's most dedicated members with a short feature on USATF.org and our social media channels. Here is our feature with USATF athlete Kristin Terpening, a member of the USATF Arizona Association from Tucson. Why are you a member of USATF? I’m a member of USATF so I can compete in USATF meets, to be informed of upcoming competition opportunities and resources, to support the work of USATF, and because it’s just pretty cool to be a member! What is your "why"? I competed in track and field throughout high school and college. As a thrower I thought I wouldn’t have any further opportunities after graduating. In 2018 I was diagnosed with bladder cancer and had two surgeries to remove tumors followed by a month of radiation therapy. In June of 2019 I had a radical cystectomy, a major open abdominal surgery resulting in removal of several organs and lymph nodes. My major motivation for recovery was to get myself in shape to once again compete in the sport that has brought me such joy. So, after a 38-year hiatus, I competed in discus, shot, and javelin at the Tucson Senior Olympics Festival. Since then, I’ve fully embraced competing in USATF Masters and Senior Games meets across the country. I had another open abdominal surgery in late 2021, followed by a great 2022 track season during which I was USATF Masters national champion (W 60-64) in shot, discus, and javelin. As I write this, I’m recovering from a third major open abdominal surgery, so my 2024 season is questionable, but I know I’ll get back into the swing of things as soon as I’m able. The friends I’ve made competing at the Masters level have been wonderful, supportive, and inspiring. I hope I’m also able to inspire other track and field athletes who may think their track career is over. I’m sure not done! What is something that helps you focus while you train? I like to focus on the technical aspects of each different throwing event I do. When I lift weights, I concentrate on the mechanical technique, rather than how much I’m lifting. Since I’m on the small side for a thrower, technique and explosive speed is critical. How has USATF impacted you? USATF has provided a means for me to return to the sport I love in a competitive arena. Outside USATF how do you spend your time? I was a career wildlife biologist working in Texas and Arizona, with stints in academia, not-for-profit conservation, county government, private consulting, and finally state government. I also took a few years off to pursue furniture making and worked at a high-end yacht building company in Maine. My hobbies include those of most people: hiking, reading, travel, cooking, and enjoying my family, friends, and our cats. I also dabble in drawing and am trying to learn French. Lots of things to pursue now that I’ve retired, but mainly I’m focusing on being healthy and competing at track meets. It’s a great reason to travel to new areas of the country and the world! What is your favorite USATF memory? So far, I have two favorite USATF memories. In 2022 at my first USATF event, I won shot, javelin, and discus, and placed fourth in hammer (only my third time throwing in competition). What a thrill receiving that USATF Masters patch that says, “National Champion.” My second favorite USATF memory was receiving my Team USATF kit to wear at the World Masters Athletics Indoor Championships in Torun, Poland. What an amazing feeling wearing Team USATF gear to represent the United States at an international competition. I felt so proud to walk around Torun wearing my USA jacket and I can’t wait to do that again! Is there an athlete or person who inspired you to join the sport? Babe Didrikson Zaharias, Fanny Blankers-Koen, and Al Oerter.