The Kansas City Smoke has been a USA Track & Field Elite Development Club since the program’s inception in 2002. Shawn Love was the founder and original director until 2010. Eric Hunt and Ron Kochanowicz each had terms at the helm and the club is now led by today’s guest interview, Randy Wasinger.
Will: Randy, Shawn Love and I share a remarkably similar path and friendship. In 2002 The Kansas City Smoke joined Team Nebraska as part of the freshman class of USATF’s Elite Development Club program. Let’s talk about The Smoke!
Randy: The Smoke was founded by Shawn, Eric Hunt and Ron Kochanowicz both had terms as president before I assumed the position.
Will: How has The Smoke evolved? How would you describe the club today?
Randy: The Smoke is committed to building and maintaining support within the Kansas City Community. Our current membership is around 100. While we maintain LDR at our core we also are able to provided for jumpers and throwers and sprinters.
Will: The Smoke is on a pretty impressive upward arc as evidenced by your 1st overall team performance at this year’s Shamrock Shuffle 8K in Chicago. First three fellas under 23:55, top shelf performances!
Randy: The Smoke’s Elite Level athletes continue to work hard. Zach, Joe, Evan and others have run remarkably well.
Will: You have an Elite level aspect, what other components of the club exist?
Randy: We also serve the running community by offering “A”, “B” and Masters athletes opportunities to compete.
Will: What are the biggest challenges for The Smoke?
Randy: Geographics. We serve athletes across the entire Missouri Valley region.
Will: What do you consider your biggest success?
Randy: Our Club Trophies from the USA National Club Championships events.
Will: What are The Smoke’s plans for the future?
Randy: More of the same. Primarily focusing on USA Club Cross Nationals and USA Club T&F National Championships.
Will: And the Marathon Road Relay at next year’s Valley 7 Lakes Marathon?
Randy: Of course!
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