Kristen Smith is a highly accomplished multisport coach, race director, and open‑water specialist whose leadership has shaped the endurance community across Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach, and beyond. With a deep foundation in athlete development, Kristen holds an exceptional range of coaching credentials and her multidisciplinary expertise allows her to coach athletes with precision across swimming, cycling, running, and the growing sport of swimrun.

Kristen is the Director of Swim The Loop, the first open‑water endurance race in the Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach area, which she launched in 2011 and has grown into a signature National event. She also serves as the Director of SwimRun Lake James, helping expand swimrun racing in the Southeast and supporting athletes as the sport gains momentum in the U.S.

Her personal race résumé is equally impressive, with a long list of demanding swimrun, ultras, triathlons, and swimming events that highlight her endurance, grit, and passion for adventure.

Kristen’s commitment to water safety and athlete support extends far beyond racing. She serves with Wrightsville Beach Ocean Rescue, bringing real‑world lifesaving experience to her coaching and event leadership. Nationally, she works on Ironman Staff, supporting swim courses across the United States, and has served as the Swim Course Lead/Coordinator for Ironman North Carolina for three years (working the event for over 7), ensuring safe, efficient, and athlete‑focused race execution.

Driven, knowledgeable, and deeply invested in her community, Kristen Smith continues to elevate endurance sports through expert coaching, innovative race direction, and a lifelong dedication to open water and multisport adventure.