Prior to becoming one of the world's top competitive road cyclists, Kristin was a world-class runner, swimmer and triathlete. She's even a veteran of multisport's most grueling event, having competed in the Ironman World Championships in Hawaii in 1999. During her career as a professional triathlete, Kristin was diagnosed with osteoarthritis of the hips and was forced away from high-impact activities such as running. Cycling was considered the best form of therapy for her condition, and by 2003 Kristin was recognized as one of the top American cyclists.
After placing eighth in the road race in her Olympic debut in Athens in 2004, Kristin Armstrong returned to the Olympics in 2008 and set such a scorching pace in the women's time trial that no rival could match it. She went on to collect her second world time trial title in 2009 before retiring at the end of the season.
While pregnant in 2010, Kristin remained heavily involved in cycling. In addition to directing the Peanut Butter & Co. TWENTY12 team, she also hosted the Kristin Armstrong Cycling Academy, which gave cyclists of all ages camp-style coaching that focuses on skill and technique, as well as goal-setting.
After taking a one-year break to give birth to her first child, Lucas, Kristin and her husband, Joe Savola, announced in the fall of 2010 that she would rejoin the sport. Kristin returned to her gold-medal form to once again win the women's time trial at the 2012 London Olympic Games.
She is a co-owner of K-Edge Cycling Solutions, a component manufacturer that got its start designing and manufacturing chain catchers for Kristin's Olympic bikes. Kristin is also active with the YMCA, the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, and a number of community-building activities.
