Who are Slowpoke Divas?
Slowpoke Divas are women ages 50 and better looking to enjoy living a healthy, active lifestyle through walking, bicycling, strength training, and active travel.
Hi, I’m Bonnie Parrish-Kell
As I approached my 50th birthday, I wanted to do something to mark this milestone. After decades as a marketing communications professional stuck at a desk in front of a computer for hours on end, I yearned to be the athlete I always thought I was.
So I chose to do a triathlon. No, not an IRONMAN® triathlon but a simple “sprint distance.” That’s the type where you swim a little ways, bike a ways down the road, and then finish it all off with a short run.
How hard could that be? How much fun would that be?
Little did I know I was about to embark on an incredibly life-changing and life-enhancing journey!
The Journey Begins
My goal race was the Vancouver Triathlon sprint race in British Columbia, Canada.
That nine-month training time was filled with frustration and fun, self-doubt and growing confidence, disappointment and delight, and steady improvement in strength, stamina, and balance.
That finisher medal is still my favorite!
That year I made so many good friends. We encouraged each other to stay on course to realize heart-set goals.
The Journey Continues
I power walked the Bellingham Bay Half Marathon and the Rock ‘n’ Roll Las Vegas Half Marathon two times each, and countless 5Ks and Turkey Trots.
After discovering senior games (multi-sport competitions for active adults ages 50 and better), I’ve participated in power walk, race walk, cycling, and triathlon at state senior games in Idaho, Nevada, Utah, and Washington State.
Participating at the 2019 National Senior Games in Albuquerque, New Mexico was truly epic! I had so much fun participating in race walk and cycling, photographing and cheering on old and new friends, and exploring that beautiful city and culturally rich Santa Fe.
I’ve also been an active volunteer with the Nevada Senior Games since 2018: triathlon coordinator, board member, and now 5K/10K road races coordinator.
And I’m planning on traveling to the 2025 National Senior Games to participate in race walk. Yes, I say “participate” because I don’t care about how fast I am. I’m doing this for friendship, fitness, and the fun of exploring new places on foot and by bike. YES, REALLY!
You, Too, Can be a Slowpoke Diva
You’re not too old or out-of-shape to start walking, bicycling, or getting stronger. Let’s do this together!
I’d love to know more about your hopes and dreams. Drop me a line or connect with me via Slowpoke Divas on Facebook, Instagram, or Threads!
Updated: December 12, 2024