Empowering Women Through Triathlons: Roaring Fork Team Seeks $30K for

In the heart of Colorado's Roaring Fork Valley, a transformative community thrives, turning doubts like "I can't swim" or "I've never ridden a bike" into triumphant stories of women crossing triathlon finish lines, sometimes even claiming spots on the podium. This isn't merely about sports; it's a profound redefinition of personal potential, fostered by the Roaring Fork Women's Triathlon Team (RFWTT)—Colorado's largest women-only sports group dedicated to empowering women through triathlon.

Empowering Women Through Sport: The Mission of RFWTT

Founded in 1999 by Nancy Reinisch and Judy Haynes, RFWTT began as a modest group aimed at fostering inclusivity in athletics. Today, it has blossomed into a vibrant community that supports women from various walks of life—whether they are reigniting athletic passions post-motherhood, recovering from health setbacks, or stepping into athletic shoes for the first time.

The essence of RFWTT lies in its core philosophy, as articulated by Sharma Phillips, a seasoned Ironman triathlon coach, "Our focus is on empowering women, creating a nurturing space that lifts them up. We show former athletes that their athletic flame still burns, and we introduce newcomers to the joy of moving and being active, all within a supportive female-positive environment."

Transforming the Intimidating into the Achievable

For many, the triathlon's swim-bike-run challenge seems daunting. RFWTT demystifies this by nurturing skills from the basics, making the sport accessible and less intimidating. Carla Westerman, a coach certified by USA Triathlon, explains, "We start at the very beginning, teaching swimming strokes in the pool, guiding first-time cyclists. Our training groups range from competitive racers to those who prefer walking. We meet every woman where she is."

This philosophy extends to their training approach. "We first make our athletes comfortable with the basics; then, we push them to embrace discomfort, because that's where growth and realization of one's potential lie," Westerman adds.

Overcoming Financial Hurdles

Despite its inclusive spirit, triathlon can be prohibitively expensive, posing a significant barrier. Recognizing this, RFWTT has established a scholarship fund to ensure that financial constraints do not prevent any woman from participating. "Every dollar raised goes into this fund to help cover everything from pool fees and gear to race entries," Phillips notes. This initiative underscores the team's commitment to accessibility, ensuring that the financial aspect does not deter potential athletes.

A Comprehensive Training Regimen

The team's training culminates at the Tri for the Sun Triathlon, a manageable yet challenging race ideal for novices and seasoned athletes alike. The structured training, skill workshops, and mental preparation are designed to build not only physical strength but also psychological resilience, preparing participants for both the race and life's various challenges.

Leadership Rooted in Personal Experience

RFWTT's leadership is deeply empathetic, having evolved from novices to certified coaches within the same program they now helm. This personal growth journey equips them uniquely to guide others, fostering an environment where every coach understands the hurdles faced by beginners intimately.

Beyond the Finish Line: A Ripple Effect of Empowerment

The impact of RFWTT stretches beyond physical achievements. It instills confidence that permeates all aspects of life—from professional ambitions and personal relationships to community involvement and health advocacy. This holistic empowerment is perhaps the most profound outcome, illustrating the transformative power of supportive communities in sports.

How You Can Contribute

The ongoing success of RFWTT relies on community support. Whether by attending fundraising events, donating to the scholarship fund, or simply spreading the word, your involvement can make a significant difference. Each contribution helps ensure that every woman has the opportunity to experience the transformative power of triathlon.

From tentative first steps to jubilant finish lines, the Roaring Fork Women's Triathlon Team is a testament to the power of belief and community support in transforming "I can't" into "I did!" Join us in this movement, and help us continue to break barriers and build empowering spaces for women in sports.