On a brisk morning on June 14, 2025, over 200 spirited athletes gathered at West Lake Park to mark an end of an era with the final Quad Cities Triathlon. Despite the cool air and challenging headwinds, the event was a vibrant celebration of endurance, community, and personal achievement.

A Chilly Start: The Swim Challenge

As dawn broke over Lake of the Hills, competitors adjusted their swim gear, their faces set with determination and a touch of nostalgia. The 600-yard swim kicked off with athletes slicing through the crisp waters, cheered on by a shoreline dotted with enthusiastic supporters waving signs and offering encouragement.

"The energy was electric, knowing it was our last chance to experience this together,"

Regular Spectator

Kimberly Ordonez and Jack Harty were among the athletes who emerged from the water with smiles, quickly transitioning to the next challenge.

Pro Tip: In triathlons, mastering the transition zones—where athletes switch from swimming to cycling, then cycling to running—can significantly impact overall performance. It's all about swift, efficient movements.

Battling the Breeze: The Cycling Leg

The 15-mile bike course, known for its rolling landscape around West Lake Park, tested the cyclists with its notorious headwinds. Athletes like Matt Drobney and Ellie Wehr pushed through, their faces a mix of concentration and resolve.

"The headwinds were tough, but knowing this was our final ride here made every pedal stroke count,"

Andy Herrin

The sentiment was echoed by many as they transitioned to the running segment with fierce determination.

The Homestretch: A Run to Remember

The final 5K run was charged with emotion as participants and spectators alike realized the significance of the moment. Signs reading "Just Tri" lined the path, a nod to the enduring spirit of the triathlon community.

Notables like Jason Gravert and Heidi Parkhurst found their rhythm, their strides strong despite the accumulating fatigue. Eric Davis, crossing the finish line, encapsulated the day's sentiment: "I wanted my first and last Quad Cities Triathlon to be memorable, and it truly was."

Celebrating Champions and Community

At the end of the day, Matt Jackson and Lauren Lehenbauer stood out as the overall champions, their performances a testament to their skill and preparation. "Winning today feels surreal," Lauren shared, her trophy glinting in the sunlight. "It's an honor to close this chapter on such a high note."

The awards ceremony was a mix of jubilation and reflective gratitude, with age group champions like Kole Temple and Paige Melton receiving their medals amid cheers.

Legacy of the Quad Cities Triathlon

Race Director Eric Sarno, pivotal in nurturing this event over the years, addressed the crowd, his voice thick with emotion. "This triathlon was more than a competition; it was a community builder, a motivator, and a source of countless personal triumphs."

Though this chapter has closed, the spirit of the Quad Cities Triathlon will live on in the community it fostered and the personal milestones it witnessed.

The Sprint Triathlon: A Gateway to Greater Challenges

For newcomers, the format of the Quad Cities Triathlon—600-yard swim, 15-mile bike, and 5K run—served as an ideal introduction to the world of multisport events, challenging yet accessible.

West Lake Park, with its natural swimming conditions, varied cycling terrain, and scenic running paths, provided a perfect backdrop for this beloved event, making each competition memorable.

Moving Forward: The Spirit Endures

As the community looks to the future, the legacy of the Quad Cities Triathlon will undoubtedly inspire new events and continue to ignite passions for multisport disciplines. Athletes like Andy Wright and Mark Wahl, who came from as far as Florida, remind us that some races are about more than just the finish line—they're about making history and cherishing the journey.

The final Quad Cities Triathlon may have concluded, but the stories, friendships, and lessons it cultivated will continue to influence and inspire for years to come.