Alisha grew up in Morganton, North Carolina and has always enjoyed sports. During her high school years at East Burke she was a 5 time state champion in cross-country and track. She went on to run in college at North Carolina State University and later transferred to Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina. In December of 2003, Alisha graduated with a degree in Elementary Education with a concentration in History.

During her last year in college, Alisha began to ride a bike to cross train for running. She quickly fell in love with the scenic rides around the North Carolina Mountains and during the summer competed in a few triathlons. She then decided to try out bike racing and quickly found success in the sport.

After sustaining a separated shoulder during the 2006 edition of the Wachovia Liberty Classic, Alisha took some time off the bike to fully recover from her injury. Part of her rehab was to begin swimming again to strengthen the ligaments that had stretched in her should joint. With the addition of swimming to her training regiment, and since she was still running to cross train for cycling, Alisha began to miss her triathlon days. Enough time had passed - Alisha decided to resume competition in Triathlon.

Being a professional athlete has taken Alisha all over the world. She regularly travels to races in new and unique places. It is difficult for her to be away from family and friends, but she stays connected through email and her website.