Interview with Chelsea Hansen
If you’ve ever scrolled through Pink Gorilla Events’ social media, opened one of our race-week emails, or felt the excitement building as race day approaches, you’ve experienced a little of Chelsea’s work! As the Marketing and Social Media Coordinator at Pink Gorilla Events, Chelsea is one of the voices behind the posts, stories, and communications that keep our running community informed, inspired, and connected. With a passion for storytelling and a love for all things running, she brings energy and creativity to every event, both behind the scenes and at the finish line. When she’s not busy bringing the Pink Gorilla Events brand to life, you’ll likely find Chelsea logging miles on the trails, leading her local run club, cheering on her daughter at a dance performance, or enjoying a craft beer on a patio with her husband.
What’s keeping me excited at Pink Gorilla Events?
There’s so much I love about what I get to do at Pink Gorilla Events! I’m in my fifth year as Marketing Coordinator, and I still love being part of all the creativity that happens behind the scenes. From race guides and emails to social media, photography, editing, and communications, no two days are ever quite the same! What keeps me most excited is knowing I get to play a role in bringing some of the best races in Nebraska (and Iowa!) to life. And what makes it even more special? So many of my friends participate in our events! There’s nothing better than seeing familiar faces out on the course, making memories, chasing goals, and having a blast at something I helped bring together. It’s pretty cool to be part of that!
Quote of the week:
Life is better when you say yes to adventure.
What am I up to health-wise?
I just wrapped up my training cycle for Market to Market Relay Nebraska! This year, I’m Runner 2 on an 8-person team, which means I get to tackle three 5Ks on race day! I love that I still get to run in both Market to Market Relays while also working behind the scenes. It’s the one race where I get to experience both sides of the event, which makes it extra special! 🙂
When I’m not running, you’ll likely find me on a bike adventure with my husband and our Team KSB friends! I’ve logged over 2,500 cycling miles so far this year and completed my second RAGBRAI this summer. There’s nothing better than exploring new places on two wheels with great people!
What is something funny that has happened to you or you have seen at an event?
I’m always on the lookout for runners wearing costumes or doing something a little out of the ordinary! I love seeing the creativity people bring to race day. Whether it’s someone running in an inflatable costume, carrying a balloon, or even the infamous barefoot runner, I’m always scanning the course for something fun and entertaining! You just never know what you’re going to see out there, and I love capturing those moments!
What am I reading?
LOL, the dreaded question! I’ll admit it, I haven’t read a book in over a year. Yep, I’m that person! In my downtime, you’re much more likely to find me scrolling TikTok. It’s amazing how much that app has taught me (whether I needed to know it or not)! Plus, it keeps me up on the latest trends and helps me stay somewhat cool and connected with my 21-year-old daughter. I call that research, right?!
What am I listening to?
The Life of a Showgirl: The Encore! Being the ultimate Swiftie, of course I’ve had this album on repeat! It’s also a great one to throw on shuffle for a run. So many bangers to keep the miles flying by!
What i’m into lately?
Outside of all the running and biking I mentioned earlier, I’m also a very proud dance mom! My daughter is a Senior Captain for the Northwest Missouri State University Bearcat Steppers, and we love making the trip to Maryville for all the home games to watch her shine! They’re also back-to-back DII National Champions, which is pretty darn cool!
I also lead Team KSB, our run-walk-bike club at Kros Strain Brewing! You’ll find me there every Wednesday, getting in some miles, catching up with friends, and enjoying a post-workout beer. It’s the perfect mix of fitness, friendship, and fun!
What would you like to share with people (your Strava, Podcast that you like, music playlist)
A little shameless plug from your Marketing Coordinator! If you’re not already following Pink Gorilla Events on social media, come hang out with us! We’re on Instagram and TikTok, and I love getting to connect with runners beyond our individual race pages. From behind-the-scenes fun and race day highlights to all the entertaining things that happen along the way, there’s always something going on! Give us a follow, say hi, and join in on the fun!
And give me a follow on Strava!