WOMEN LIFTING UP WOMEN

"Every stroke, every step and every mile is a testament to your courage," said YWCA Minneapolis President and CEO Shelley Carthen Watson at the start of the 17th YWCA Triathlon on Sunday, Aug. 9, 2026. "Every woman here is proof of what is possible when women come together, lift one another up and pursue something bigger than themselves.” 

YWCA Women's Triathlon is the largest women-only triathlon in the contiguous United States. Athletes ranged from 11 to 84 years old and participated for many different reasons.
Some were pursuing personal records, working towards growing faster and stronger. Others competed alongside a mother, daughter, sister, friend or neighbor. Others used the event as a time to hold space for themselves through the summer, often modeling healthy habits and perseverance for their children.
The oldest finisher, AnnLiv B., 84, crossed the finish line with her nieces. Another octogenarian, 82-year-old Patsy L, has completed over 40 triathlons, including the YWCA Women's Triathlon five times.
"I hope to still be doing this when I'm over 90," Patsy said. "You don't know the fun you're missing if you don't start."
A heart attack survivor, Patsy's mantra is "don't blow anything out." She completed the race to a rousing ovation and was feeling good at the finish line.
YWCA Women's Triathlon is designed to be inclusive and accessible. In addition to athletes of all ages, this year included five racers who were deaf or hard of hearing. The field also included athletes with visual impairments. Volunteers coordinated with racers’ guides as needed for all as pects of the race.
YWCA Women's Triathlon serves two purposes. It is one of the most visible ways YWCA Minneapolis advances its mission to eliminate racism and empower women and girls, and it is also an important fundraiser for the organization.
Revenue from race registrations, sponsorships and peer-to-peer fundraising helps support YWCA Minneapolis programs that serve more than 15,000 people annually.
The Century team of Claire S., 57, and Mira B., 59, worked to raise over $2,000 to support the organization. Before the race, Claire and Mira shared why supporting YWCA Minneapolis was an important part of their experience.
"We're racing to support YWCA Minneapolis and their mission of eliminating racism and empowering women," Claire said. "That mission isn't abstract to us, it's the work we show up for every day in our lives and businesses."
After completing the race, Claire noted the supportive environment.
"I've had a smile on my face the whole time," Claire said. "I think anyone can do a tri. If you can move your body and be committed and listen to your body, you can do this."
The YWCA Women's Triathlon has been held at Lake Nokomis since 2010.