We're Better Together
At iDaph Events, we believe movement is powerful — but movement together? That’s where the magic happens.
Sure, we can run, bike, swim, or walk on our own anytime. We’ve got watches that track every detail, apps that log every mile, and photos to prove we did the thing. But when we show up for a race — when we line up side-by-side with others chasing their own goals — something changes.
Strangers become cheerleaders. High-fives turn into fuel. We push a little harder, dig a little deeper, and leave with more than a medal. We leave with a story. A connection. A feeling of being part of something bigger.
Since 2011, iDaph has been honored to create and host events throughout the beautiful mountains of Western North Carolina. We’re locals — and we don’t take it for granted that people travel from all over to experience this place and these races. Whether it’s your first 5K or your fiftieth triathlon, we’re here to support you, celebrate you, and create a space where everyone feels welcome.
We’re committed to designing unforgettable experiences that move your body, lift your spirit, and connect you to community. This isn’t just about racing — it’s about living better, together.
Meet the Team
We are small but mighty. This group of passionate and creative individuals are the guiding force behind the iDaph events. Together with our awesome volunteers, we collaborate to create racing events that celebrate fitness, community and an active outdoor lifestyle.
Daphne Kirkwood
Founder, Owner & Race Dynamo
Daphne is passionate about keeping bodies moving and loves creating, designing and producing events that encourage people to do so. She is a mother, cancer survivor and avid fitness enthusiast.
Amy Silvers
Director of Getting It Done
Amy holds it all together. She doesn’t just meet deadlines — she tracks, reminds, and occasionally rescues them. She is a wife, mother, and distance runner. In fact, Amy loves those ice-cold days more than anyone we know.
Allison Capps
Visual Virtuoso
From race swag to custom medals, Allison creates all the fresh designs our events are known for. She juggles creativity with the craziness of being the mom of two little ones and running whenever she can.
Mike Krol
"MikeGyver"
Mike literally does it all - from course signs to emergency repairs. Affectionately known as “MikeGyver,” he can fix just about anything with a hammer and a grin. He’s always ready with a one-liner and helps keep race day running smooth.
Jessika Poppe
Chief Vibe Curator
Jessika brings her love of running and storytelling to race day, capturing all the moments for our social media. She’s hiked the entire Appalachian Trail and spends her downtime with her three cats, her pup Ranger, and has a serious love for donuts.
Kevin Jones
Event Jester
As an avid runner and cyclist, Kevin uses his wit and humor to keep us all smiling on race days. He is part of the behind the scenes crew that sets up everything before you even wake up in the morning.
Conrad Shirk
Warehouse Gnome
Conrad knows exactly where things are and needs to be in the warehouse and understand how everything works. If there is a supply or equipment question he knows. Give him a list and he is a happy man!
Justin Friede
Photo Biker Guy
You’ve probably seen him zipping around on his bike snapping race photos and videos! He’s also the guy behind our website, digital media, and all those iDaph communications you see.
Crystal Shirk
Race Cheerleader
Crystal brings big energy and keeps volunteers, vendors, and awards running like clockwork. A breast cancer survivor and endurance athlete, she’s all about family time and living life to the fullest.
Julia Stepp
‘Jill of all Trades’
Julia tackles event day like a pro, jumping in wherever she’s needed — from merch and packet pickup to timing. She’s all about getting things done and making race day amazing.
Jen Heaslip
Volunteer Whisperer
Jen is our behind-the-scenes powerhouse, making sure volunteers are prepped and in place on race day. When she’s not managing the crew or helping with merch, she’s running ultras or hanging with her family.
Craig Moore
Officer of Fun
Captain Craig is our retired cop from Ohio who keeps race day safe and smooth. When he’s not managing safety spots or setting up, he’s out on the course—so don't run too fast!
Robert Farmer
Event Ops Ninja
Robert brings decades of logistics know-how to keep race day running smooth. He’s all about family, his three pups, and Jiu Jitsu—and loves exploring WNC with his wife in their vintage Land Cruisers.
