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.
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!
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.
Mike Krol
"MikeGyver"
Mike is our go-to guy for everything from setting and cleaning up a race course, signage, and water stations. Known affectionately as "MikeGyver," he's the type who can fix anything with a hammer and a smile. You won't miss him—just look for the idaph flag flying proudly on his pickup, aka the official race vehicle. Always ready with a quick wit and the perfect one-liner, Mike keeps our events running smoothly and our spirits high!
Julia Stepp
‘Jill of all Trades’
From Hendersonville, Julia meets the demands of event production head on. She is extremely versatile and sees what needs to be done and just goes for it. Typically you will find her at the merchandise, packet pickup or timing areas at the races.
Crystal Shirk
Race Cheerleader
With her infectious energy and passion for endurance sports, Crystal keeps the volunteers and vendors organized and ensures the awards ceremony runs like a well-oiled machine. When she's not crushing races or supporting her fellow athletes, you'll find this breast cancer survivor soaking up quality time with her family and celebrating all that life has to offer.
Jen Heaslip
Volunteer Whisperer
Jen is the ultimate behind-the-scenes powerhouse; seamlessly coordinating volunteers and ensuring that they are all accounted for and in place on race day. When she's not managing the volunteers like a boss or supporting the merchandise area on race she can be found running ultra marathons or spending quality time with her family.
Justin Friede
Photo Biker Guy
You've probably seen him zipping around the course on his bike to capture photos and videos. If you didn't notice him, maybe you saw the big "smile" sign around his neck!
Craig Moore
Officer of Fun
Meet Captain Craig—our very own retired cop from Ohio who now keeps our races safe and sound! When he's not busy setting up, tearing down, or managing crucial safety posts, you might just spot him sprinting past you on the course. Rumor has it he's secretly training for a marathon where the race medals are made out of donuts!
Robert Farmer
Event Ops Ninja
Robert loves spending time with his family, three dogs and practicing Jiu Jitsu. He has lived and worked in Western North Carolina for 25 years, often adventuring, hiking and exploring with his wife in his vintage Land Cruisers. With several decades experience in logistics, he helps ensure each race runs smoothly. He is so eager to work he actually showed up a day early for a race!
