A lifelong athlete and collegiate swimmer, the former Kelly Daley of Peru is married to Camp Pok-O-Moonshine Headmaster Erik Zimmerman, and the mother to three. She has trekked the Patch Sprint the past four years.
Among her notable related athletic achievements are a Patch Sprint open women's title (walking, of course), and a Top Ten at the 2004 Patch Sprint South in Wilmington, North Carolina.
There are a few best parts... a) The reunion aspect. Being able to be with lots of friends, alumni and my entire family for a long weekend. b) I love walking. The Patch Sprint is one day when I can walk a lot of miles with friends and not alone. c) Hanging out with friends and alumni in a smoke free environment - the Pasta supper, Registration/Expo, on top of Poko, at the picnic the day after the race. d) The atmosphere - everyone is always so happy and fun and so kind - but that's camp and camp people. It's one of my favorite events of the year.
2. What is the biggest challenge of the Patch Sprint?
For years it was finding my way. I always tagged on with Phil and Kenny and other CHUMPS who have done the race with them. I have loved hiking with Phil and Kenny over the years. They make me laugh and laugh. But, Kenny outgrew me and decided to try hard and word is out that Phil started taking a boat, so I had to figure out how to get down Sugarloaf and over to Poko on my own. Last year I did it with Augusta and had a fantastic time. And, we navigated the course beautifully, we only got misplaced once.
3. What is my training regimen for the event?
I walk between 45 minutes to two hours at least 358 days a year. On the days I can't walk, I ride a stationary bike. But, I would be doing this without the Patch Sprint. Really, the Patch Sprint is an excuse for me to exercise. I am a little hyper and need to get the energy out. And stay fit. And think. And get outdoors.
4. My goals for the 2006 Patch Sprint.
To stay hydrated this year. And, to do the Patch Sprint at night. Chris Bell and I had talked about doing it last summer but couldn't fit it in in August. If I don't do it at night in May, I would like to at some point over the summer. Chris, let me know when you want to hike it at night.
5. What advice would I give someone who has never done the Patch Sprint?
To stick with someone who knows what they are doing. Use the first year to learn the course and the next as many years as it takes to get faster and more efficient. And of course to have fun and enjoy the whole experience.
