Stephanie Melkonian lives and trains in Albuquerque, New Mexico and is by no means new to Ironman. One might say she was not an overnight success in the sport - but what Stephanie DOES have is dedication, grit, and undeniable passion which FINALLY led her to earning that coveted Kona spot at Ironman Chattanooga in 2022. Stephanie shares her journey - the ups and downs and the "almosts" - which created the path she was destined to follow. You may find many parallels to your own triathlon journey in her stories. We also enjoyed hearing about the awards ceremony at Ironman Chattanooga where so many women were able to accept Kona spots for 2023. Stephanie shares that the room was full of energy and the women were SO excited. This is what it's all about - lifting up each other in sport and sharing in the joy of all the hard work day in and day out to reach dreams that were not possible until now. Follow Stephanie's journey: @iron_chipmunk Support the show Follow Mission Kona Podcast hosted by Mike & Michelle Payne: · Instagram missionkonapodcast · Do you know an age group athlete who has a great story to share? Send us a message via our website at www.missionkonapodcast.com or email to [email protected]