Celebrating the Strength in All Women at the 14th Annual Women's Triathlon

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Aug 18

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By 8:00 am on the morning of August 13, over 900 women and non-binary triathletes were gathered at Lake Nokomis to compete in the 14th annual YWCA Women's Triathlon. As the largest all-women triathlon in the country, the race attracted participants ages 11 to 80+ with varying levels of experience, diverse backgrounds and powerful stories. Racers challenged themselves to a swim, bike ride and run as individuals, buddy groups and relay groups.Athletes of every size, age and ability connected with other racers and got inspired by the palpable energy of nearly 1,000 athletes working toward a common goal. With multiple distances and levels of difficulty, the Women's Triathlon catered to first-timers and veteran triathletes alike.

Connecting with Community

This year’s event also featured community favorites, including food trucks, music and kids’ activities, as well as people of color and women-owned businesses, including Minnesota Aurora, Wilderness Inquiry, Black Garnet Books, Painted Turtle, Lunds & Byerly's - Nokomis, Grumpy's Bookshop, MN Nice Cream, Gastro Truck, Umbrella Woodworking, the Scarlet Team, the Hub Co-op, DBL Creations and Freezer Breezers.The Dripping Root, a local Black woman-owned juice business, was set to be at the Tri as well but suffered a break-in the night before, losing massive inventory. If you would like to support the Dripping Root, visit them or contribute to their GoFundMe.

A Victorious Finish

As triathletes crossed the finish line accompanied by their friends and family, volunteers and YWCA leaders awarded them with medals.

"I tell all my friends to try the triathlon. If you don't like it, you can cross it off your bucket list. If you like it, you can do it again and again!" — 8th Year Triathlete Stephanie

"Such an amazing event. Six years ago I did my first tri and now my daughter and I do it together. There isn't anything that compares to the grit, fun, support and strength that is displayed during this event! Grateful for the opportunity to be strong, authentic, so fiercely women powered." — Linda Roberts, Triathlete

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A Volunteer-Powered Event

Over 200 essential volunteers supported this event, from setting up the courses on Friday and Saturday, to noodle swimming, to aiding in the transition area.A noodle swimmer said, "This was the BEST volunteer role, and I cried at the very end when the two last swimmers completed their swim and hugged each other. It was absolutely magical and so beautiful and empowering. This is what triathlon and women's sports should be. Please NEVER stop holding this race."Another volunteer said, "One of the best parts of volunteering was the other volunteers were very friendly and helpful. I loved meeting them!"

Back for Good

At the beginning of the race, CEO and President Shelley Carthen Watson announced, "Stay tuned for the 2024 Women's Triathlon date. We can't wait to see you back at Lake Nokomis in 2024 for our 15th annual race! We are committed to the Women’s Triathlon, and hope you will join us next August, and every August thereafter."

Winners

Individual Overall

SuperSprint

Relay

Aquabike

Results and Photos

View the finish line photos and all race results.Race Results and Finisher Photos Women's Triathlon Facebook Album More About Women's Triathlon