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2025 USA Triathlon Ultra Distance National Championships Results: Ashley Blake & Marty Hess Claim Victory in Penn Yan Steel Distance Race

2025 USA Triathlon Ultra Distance National Championships Results: Ashley Blake & Marty Hess Claim Victory in Penn Yan Steel Distance Race

Where Champions Are Forged: The Grueling Beauty of Ultra Distance Triathlon Nationals

Where Champions Are Forged: The Grueling Beauty of Ultra Distance Triathlon Nationals

The Steel Distance Challenge: Beyond Traditional Ultra Racing

In the picturesque Finger Lakes region of New York, endurance athletes gathered to test their limits at the 2025 USA Triathlon Ultra Distance National Championships. Held in Penn Yan on August 17th, this event was not just about winning titles; it was about conquering the unique "Steel Distance" format, a true test of grit and endurance.

The USA Triathlon Ultra Distance National Championships stand out not only for their prestige but also for the formidable Steel Distance format. While the Ironman distance is a well-known benchmark at 140.6 miles, the Steel Distance ups the ante with a 116-mile bike course, adding an extra layer of challenge.

The Steel Distance includes:

  • 2.4-mile swim in the serene waters of Keuka Lake
  • 116-mile bike ride through the undulating terrain of the Finger Lakes
  • 26.2-mile marathon run along the lake's scenic shores

This format, developed with First Knight Racing and the Peasantman Steel Distance Triathlon Series, has been lauded by Triathlete magazine as one of the top long-distance triathlons in the nation. The additional four miles on the bike may seem minor, but in the throes of an ultra-distance race, each mile tests the athlete's mental resilience.

The Finger Lakes region offers a stunning yet challenging backdrop. Cyclists face rolling hills with demanding climbs and technical descents, while the marathon run benefits from the psychological lift of the lake's beauty.

Champions Emerge: 2025 National Championship Results

Ultra Distance Triathlon National Championships

In the men's competition, Marty Hess from Durham, North Carolina emerged victorious with a time of 11:01:58, showcasing consistent performance across all disciplines. Galen McLaughlin of Willow Grove, Pennsylvania followed closely, finishing in 11:09:40, while Michael Riley from Philadelphia completed the podium with a time of 11:43:01.

For the women, Ashley Blake from Hudson, New Hampshire dominated with a remarkable time of 11:42:29, securing both the overall title and the 40-44 age group championship. Madelen Bullis from Windsor Mill, Maryland and Rebecca Angles from Charleston, South Carolina rounded out the podium with times of 13:39:59 and 14:51:31, respectively.

Supporting Disciplines Showcase Elite Depth

Ultra Distance Duathlon Results:

  • Men's Champion: Yaniv Yarkoni (Hillsborough, N.J.) - 9:52:50
  • Women's Champion: Maggie Freeman (Millstone Township, N.J.) - 11:14:26

Ultra Distance Aquabike Results:

  • Men's Champion: Marc Silberman (North Plainfield, N.J.) - 6:45:12
  • Women's Champion: Felicity Joyce (Greenbrae, Calif.) - 6:36:25

Joyce's performance was particularly noteworthy, as her time surpassed the men's champion, underscoring the strength of women's ultra-distance racing.

The Anatomy of Ultra Distance Racing

Physical Demands

The Steel Distance format places unique demands on athletes. The swim serves as an extended warm-up, but the 116-mile bike leg is the race's defining segment. Those extra miles, though seemingly minor, can be the difference between a strong marathon and a grueling finish.

Mental Fortitude

Ultra-distance racing is as much a mental challenge as a physical one. Athletes must manage nutrition, pacing, and motivation throughout the day. The Finger Lakes' natural beauty offers psychological support.

What events are part of the 2025 USA Triathlon Ultra Distance National Championships?

The 2025 USA Triathlon Ultra Distance National Championships included competitions in Ultra-Distance Triathlon, Duathlon, and Aquabike.

Who won the men's 2025 Ultra Distance Triathlon National Championships?

Marty Hess from Durham, N.C. won the men's Ultra Distance Triathlon National Championships with a time of 11:01:58.

Where was the 2025 USA Triathlon Ultra Distance National Championships held?

The event was held in Penn Yan, New York, in conjunction with First Knight Racing and the Peasantman Steel Distance Triathlon Series.

What is the Steel Distance mentioned in the Ultra Distance Triathlon?

The Steel Distance includes a slightly longer-than-traditional ultra-distance bike course featuring a 2.4-mile swim, 116-mile bike, and 26.2-mile run.

Who were the winners of the Ultra Distance Duathlon National Championships?

Yaniv Yarkoni won the men's race with a time of 9:52:50, and Maggie Freeman won the women's race with a time of 11:14:26.

#TriathlonChampionships #UltraDistanceTriathlon

Source: https://www.usatriathlon.org/articles/press-releases/champions-crowned-at-2025-usa-triathlon-ultra-distance-nationals-in-penn-yan-new-york

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