Kelly Fillnow was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She moved to Hilton Head Island when she was a freshman in high school to train at Van der Meer Tennis Academy. Kelly Graduated with a BA in history from Davidson College. She went on to Duke University for graduate work in secondary education. She was nominated for the NCAA Woman of the Year for her outstanding performances in tennis and cross country. At Davidson College, she received the highest ITA National Ranking ever by a Davidson woman in 2003. She was a ten time Southern All-Conference honoree in tennis and cross country at Davidson. She was a member of the Duke University's Cross Country team, which ranked #1 in the nation in 2005.

Run Accomplishments: 17 minute 5k, 37 minute 10k, 1:19:58 Half Marathon, 2:57:01 Marathon, 4:25 70.3 Half, 10:16 Full Ironman

Multi-sport Accomplishments: Hawaii Ironman World Championships Podium Finisher 2010; Duathlon Age Group World Champion, 2009; Duathlon Age Group National Champion 2009; Top Amateur, 5th overall at Augusta 70.3 2010; Age Group Champion at Florida Ironman 2009

Kelly is a Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Lifestyle Fitness Coach and Certified Fitness Nutrition Coach. Kelly is a world class athlete and is passionate about sharing her expertise with UpGrade Lifestyle clients.