Keeping Pace with the Ks: The Loescher Family's Athletic Legacy in Stafford

Photo Credit: Karen Presecan Photography

The first letter of their names isn't the only thing the Loescher family has in common. Kristen, Ken, Kayla (21), Kendall (19), and Kate (17) all have a passion for athletics and academics, but each has carved their own path and made their mark in the Stafford community. 

Kristen and Ken's story began at Cedarville University in Ohio, where they were both on the cross country and track teams. Kristen humorously recalls her less-than-stellar cross-country performance:

"At the time, I was NOT a distance runner, but the cross country coach asked me to join the team after my freshman year of track because he said it would help me build endurance for the 400m hurdles," Kristen explained. "Let's just say that I was asked to return to the cross-country team for a second year because of my excellent van-driving skills, not my running skills." Kristen landed the honor of driving the van for the girl's team, and "Coach King knew he could count on me not to lose him in traffic— I think he also knew he didn't have to count on me to be one of his top seven runners at the meet," Kristen laughed.

But while Kristen had her sights on the road and getting the team to their away meets safely, Ken had his sights on Kristen. The couple quickly became college sweethearts, and their love blossomed into a lasting partnership. Today, they navigate careers, family life, and a thriving event business while passing on their passion for running to their three daughters.

Building a Life in Stafford

The Loescher family moved to Stafford in 2016, driven by Ken's job at the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) in Springfield and their desire for a shorter commute. They initially settled in Embrey Mill but moved to the Colonial Forge neighborhood in 2018 to be closer to the high school and enjoy more space. Kristen's role at the Jeff Rouse Swim and Sports Center made Embrey Mill an ideal location for the family. Still, their ultimate decision was also influenced by the excellent school system, which they knew would provide their daughters with a solid academic and athletic foundation.

Kristen, who holds a degree in Elementary Education, found her passion in the fitness industry after moving to Virginia. Over the years, she worked at the Rappahannock Area YMCA, eventually managing the Jeff Rouse Swim and Sports Center and Pure Barre Stafford. But it was in 2019, alongside Ken, that Kristen's entrepreneurial spirit took center stage.

Together, they launched Arsenal Events, a race timing and event management company. 

“Everyone remembers what 2020 was like, so let’s just say that it was NOT a good year to launch an events-based business,” Kristen explained. “Thankfully, through the support of the local running community, our faithful business partners, and one perfectly-timed grant, the business survived and is thriving now!” Arsenal Events organizes the Stafford Race Series today, which includes the Spring Fever 5K at Stafford Hospital, the Go for Bo race hosted by Ebenezer UMC at Stafford Regional Airport, and the Halloween 5K and Frosty 5K both held at Embrey Mill Park. In addition, they provide timing services for 50-70 races yearly.

For the Loeschers, the Stafford community has been a source of connection and joy, with many friendships forged at local races and high school sporting events. Kristen says it best: "It's such a convenient, peaceful, and fun place to live, but we especially love the people in this area. There are so many active families and individuals, and we love connecting with them at races we host or time and at high school sporting events."

The Next Generation: Kayla, Kendall, and Kate

The Loescher daughters have all followed in their parents' footsteps, excelling academically and athletically.

Kayla Loescher, the eldest, set the pace for her sisters at Colonial Forge High School, where she was a standout in track and cross country. Now a senior at Hillsdale College in Michigan, she's double-majoring in Physics and Applied Mathematics, all while continuing to run competitively.

Kayla's summers have been equally impressive, with internships at Hillsdale, Montana State University, and the Naval Research Lab in Washington, D.C. This past summer, she lived at home and commuted to D.C., giving her a taste of the daily grind. In her downtime, Kayla enjoys baking and is known as the family's #1 Nisu (a Finnish bread) baker.

Kendall, the middle Loescher sister, made her mark at Colonial Forge as a field hockey standout. Her senior year was particularly memorable, as her team made it to the State Semifinals, and she was named Region 6B Player of the Year.

Now a student at Grand Canyon University in Arizona, where she's majoring in Economics, Kendall is known for her strong work ethic. She balances her studies with working at Jersey Mike's in Stafford and Arizona. In her spare time, Kendall loves hiking around beautiful Sedona and attending concerts with friends.

The youngest Loescher, Kate, has already made a name for herself on the track. Known as "Killer Kate," she holds all of Colonial Forge's school records from the 800m- 3200m in track to the 5,000m in cross country. Her junior year was particularly stellar, with runner-up finishes in cross country and indoor track and a state title in the outdoor 3200m.

While still considering her college options, Kate is being recruited by several top-tier programs. When she's not busy with school and training, she helps out with the family business, Arsenal Events.

Pets and Outdoor Passions

In addition to their athletic pursuits, the Loeschers share their home with two cats—Kix (14) and Keven (13)—and two Pomeranian Poodles, Karli and Ken'Z, both 6. Like the rest of the family, the cats' names start with "K," and Keven is “somewhat of a celebrity on the neighborhood Facebook page.” Meanwhile, Karli and Ken'Z, although from different litters, were adopted as a bonded pair and love to make their presence known by barking at every delivery driver.

The Loeschers are outdoor enthusiasts, too. They often hike at Shenandoah National Park, with White Oak Canyon being a family favorite. They also fondly recall their most memorable vacation—a trip to Kauai, Hawaii—where they explored the island's breathtaking hikes, stunning beaches, and delicious food.

"Kauai was an unforgettable trip," Kristen said. "The hikes were amazing, and we still talk about how much we loved the beaches and the food. It was one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences."

They also visit Michigan each summer, where Kristen's father owns a berry farm. The girls time their visits with strawberry season to help pick berries for orders, and they enjoy the beaches and hiking spots during their stay.

This athletic family, with deep roots in the Stafford community, continues to inspire through their dedication to sports, education, and giving back—whether it's on the track, at local races, or in the comfort of their home with their beloved pets.