Jeannie Rasmussen
/Birthdate: 9 January 1959
What is your occupation? Print Buyer/Traffic Manager for Trader Joe's
What/when was your first climb? 6 years ago, the AON Climb
How many climbs have you completed? About 20
Why/how did you start? My good friend Mark Trahanovsky
Do you have a favorite climb? Why? The Cystic Fibrosis Climb, the metal steps
Least favorite climb? Why? AON, the concrete steps and left hand turns.
Why do you climb? The physical challenge, competition and West Coast Labels team support.
Are there other sports you’re passionate about? 5k runs
Did you have injuries or issues you needed to overcome to climb? I have issues with my left knee, peroidic right hamstring issues. When I was 21 I was in a mortor cycle accident and broke my pelvis and cracked my helmet (I thank God I was wearing one). I had to recovery peroid of about 8 weeks. I told myself to never take for granted the gift of movement.
How do you train? I train in the buildings where the stair races are being held, when available. I train at least three times a week in my gym, running, stair climbing machine and or the elliptical trainer (some sort of cardo for a half hour) weights for another half hour, conclude with set ups then stretch for 10 minutes.
Do you have a special relationship with any of your step-siblings? Mark T. and I have had a working relationship and friendship for the last 25 years. He got me into Stair Climbing, I don't know wheather to thank him or hate him, just kidding...
Who inspires you? My twin sister and all my step siblings. I especially admire Madeleine Ronk for her strength while battling breast cancer. She continues to train with such amazing spirit. She gives it her all no matter how difficult it maybe and she's always smiling!
Do you have a good luck charm or any superstitions or pre-race rituals? Pray
What's on your iPod during workouts/competitions? I train to mostly 70's rock music, I don't race with music, I want to hear myself breath.
What would you like to tell others about yourself and your experience with stair climbing that might inspire them in their lives? Since I started stair climbing and racing with the West Coast Labels team. I've had such a wonderful time being apart of a fantastic group of athletes. My 5k racing has also improved by adding stair climbing and racing to my training skill set. In my 50-54 and 55-59 age groups, I've enjoyed metaling in numberious 5k events as a result of stair climbing.
My mother has type 2 diabetes and it also runs in her side of the family. I've always included exercise and eating well as a part of my life to avoid contracting type 2 diabetes myself.