As one of the most dedicated athletes in our region, Carole Cook has become a fan favorite as she wins race after race in her age group. Cook, a frequent racer in the SW Challenge Series, is immediately recognizable during a race by her long blond ponytail and her yellow/orange fade Cannondale. After a race you'll see her basking in the applause as she accepts yet another award. One of the friendliest and most gracious athletes on the course or off........here is our 10 questions with the "Southern Belle" of the SWCS.

TT.....Hi Carole, you’ve been having a great season (as usual). What keeps you coming back to triathlon season after season? 

CC.....You know how some people just can’t quit smoking? It’s a lot like that.

Most of the time you’re racing alone in your age group…..what do you do to stay motivated during a race? 

Trying not to be last is my main motivation.

You’re well known for your graceful acceptance of your many awards……..don’t you think you should patent that little flourish that you do? I might be tempted to steal it from you (if I ever win something!) 

Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. I would be happy to give you some pointers on perfecting it. And don’t be so modest—you won the Roadrunner.

How long have you been involved in triathlon? 

This year’s Roadrunner Triathlon marked my seventh anniversary.

You seem to do a lot of races per season………what do you enjoy more…..racing or training? 

Racing beats training all to pieces. You don’t get awards after training sessions.

It seems like our race entries run 3 to 1 in favor of men. How can we get more women involved in triathlon?

Publish your picture in more places.

When I first started racing you were beating me like a drum………..what were you thinking when you ran past me yet again? 

Nothing. I passed you so fast I didn’t even see you.

What would you most like to improve in your racing?

My running, especially when it’s the last event in the triathlon. My running stinks even more when it’s warmer. No pun intended.

Anything special in store for us when you accept your SW Challenge Series age group  award at the Polar Bear? 

Don’t you think my presence is special enough?

Do you mind your new nickname “ The Southern Belle”?

Mind it? I think it’s wonderful. I just don’t know what I did to earn it.