Keara McGraw – President
kmcgraw@kwtfc.org
Keara McGraw is a dynamic in nonprofit strategy, communications, and large-scale event operations, currently serving as the Grants and Communications Lead for the St. Pete Foundation. With a passion for storytelling and impact, she also wears the hat of Social Media Director for the Gasparilla Distance Classic, where she blends creative strategy with community engagement to bring one of Florida’s most beloved races to life. From managing nonprofit initiatives to orchestrating multi-thousand-participant events, Keara thrives at the intersection of mission, message, and momentum.
Beyond her professional roles, Keara is deeply embedded in community leadership across the Keys. She is the Head Coach of Key West High School’s Cross Country Team, President of the Big Pine Academy Board, and a Board Member of the Lower Keys Rotary Club. Her expertise spans nonprofit operations, race logistics, and strategic communications, making her a go-to for both big-picture planning and on-the-ground execution. Whether she’s guiding students, shaping public narratives, or steering community impact, Keara brings energy, purpose, and a relentless drive to everything she does. Keara is also the Co-Founder of Tidal Running dedicated to bringing the best support and education to runners of all ages and abilities.
Steve Hanes began pole vaulting at age 7. He established new National AAU Jr. Olympic records and won the National Championships at age 13 and age 15. At Ottawa High School (Kansas) he won 3 State Outdoor Championships and 2 State Indoor Championships and established a new Class AAA State record at the time. Steve still holds the Ottawa High School record in the pole vault at 15’. After 35+ years of retirement from track and field, Steve began competing at the Master’s level and is nationally and internationally ranked in the pole vault, 100m, and 200m. (see www.masterrankings.com) Steve worked with a number of non-profit organizations in Austin, Texas for over a decade including serving on the Executive Board of the Wine and Food Foundation of Texas. Since 2014 Steve has been a volunteer coach at Key West High School. Steve is listed on the USATF’s Coach’s Registry.
CAROLINE BAUER, Vice President
Caroline Bauer is very involved in the local sporting community including pickleball, golf, tennis, and all things water-related, skiing, kayaking, exploring and, a favorite, snorkeling. Caroline is a former Board member of the Key West Pickleball Club. She is a licensed Florida Real Estate Sales Agent in Key West. Before moving to Key West Caye was a plant manager for a large sporting clothes manufacturer.