YWCA Women’s Triathlon Looks Forward to 10 Year Anniversary in 2017
More than 1,000 racers gathered at Lake Nokomis in Minneapolis on Sunday, August 14 for the 9th Annual YWCA Minneapolis Women’s Triathlon. The girls and women, spanning ages 11 through 78, swam, biked and ran their way through the beautiful urban course that the YWCA Minneapolis Women’s Tri calls home.
Over the last nine years, this triathlon has established itself as the largest all-women triathlon in the region, proudly attracting nearly half of its participants attempting their first triathlon. Returning for the second year, the SuperSprint, a race distance option perfect for beginners or those wanting to race a shorter distance, saw over a 40% increase.
Over Nine Years:
- 9,400+ Registrants
- 2,500+ Volunteers
- 2,000+ Participants in
- Triathlon clinics/classes
- Low-waste efforts divert
- 92% of waste into composting/recycling
- Youngest racer 11 years old
- Oldest racer 78 years old
- 2012 Race of the Year
- 2013-2016 Race of the Year Top 5
2016 Race Highlights
The singing of the National Anthem was performed by Girls Inc. at YWCA Minneapolis Eureka! program participants, inspiring all girls to be strong, smart and bold.
During the anthem, the U.S. flag was held by former Marine, YWCA Minneapolis personal trainer, and first-time-triathlete Emily Shelton. “I am extremely thankful for all the women before me who made it possible for me to serve my country the way I wanted.”
Race legend Judy Rykken (L) once again won her age group, but this time accepted as a great-grandmother. Judy has competed in all nine YWCA Women’s Triathlons and about 160 total triathlons. She is an inspiration to all! “It’s just so much fun to be outside with the excitement and camaraderie of other racers.”
Thank You Fundraising Team!
This year’s team of 26 triathletes raised $25,000+ to support young people and families leading healthier lives at YWCA Minneapolis. We are grateful and inspired by your desire to give back. You make those YWCA team jerseys look good!