Triathlete's Winning Races Connect Her to Vietnamese Heritage and Insp

Just three months ago, Sarah Elizabeth Segrest was struggling to run three miles. Today, she stands as a proud member of Team USA in the Draft-Legal Sprint Triathlon, marking her as the first Vietnamese-born American citizen to achieve this feat. Her rapid ascent from a novice to a national competitor is not just a testament to her athletic prowess but also a poignant chapter in her journey of cultural reconnection and community inspiration.

A New Beginning in Fort Worth

Sarah's venture into the world of triathlon began amidst personal upheaval. Following a tough breakup, she moved from Knoxville to Fort Worth in September, driven by a lifelong dream to live in Texas—a dream whose origins she couldn't pinpoint but felt deeply. "I always wanted to live in Texas since I was a little girl," Sarah recalls, puzzled yet drawn by the mysterious allure of the Lone Star State.

This move turned out to be transformative. To forge new friendships, Sarah joined a local running club, unknowingly setting the stage for her future in triathlon. What began as a social activity soon unveiled her latent talent for endurance sports.

A Meteoric Rise to National Stardom

Defying conventional athletic timelines, Sarah's progression in triathlon was nothing short of meteoric. Her debut triathlon in March ended with a surprising second place, igniting a spark within her. "If I wouldn't have placed second, I don't think I'd still be doing this," she admits. This early success was a sign, perhaps, of a destiny unfolding.

Fuelled by her initial success, she clinched first place in her next triathlon, securing a spot at the USA Triathlon Sprint & Olympic Distance National Championships. By early June, she not only made it to the top ten at the Multisport National Championships Festival but also qualified for the 2026 Draft-Legal Sprint World Championships in Spain, a remarkable achievement for someone just months into the sport.

Reconnecting with Her Vietnamese Roots

Amidst her athletic achievements, Sarah embarked on a profound personal journey. Adopted from Vietnam by a predominantly white family, her connection to her Vietnamese heritage was tenuous. The racial awakenings spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic ignited her desire to delve deeper into her roots.

"I want to get to know my culture, get to know my roots better," she explains, her voice tinged with resolve. Currently learning Vietnamese, Sarah hopes to visit Vietnam and perhaps reconnect with her birth mother, further embracing her identity by changing her last name to Segrest, honoring her adoptive mother.

Training for the World Stage

Sarah's daily regimen is as rigorous as it is inspiring. Starting at 4 AM, she balances intense training sessions with her professional commitments, a testament to her dedication and discipline. Her versatility shines through her participation in various endurance events, preparing her for the strategic demands of the Draft-Legal Sprint Triathlon.

A Symbol of Community and Hope

As Sarah's story gains traction, it resonates deeply within the Vietnamese-American community, turning her personal achievements into a beacon of collective pride and inspiration. "I don't want to let my community down... It's really starting to become more of an accomplishment for a Vietnamese family that I feel like I didn't always have," she reflects.

With every race, Sarah carries not only her aspirations but also the hopes of a community eager to see themselves reflected in her triumphs. "I hope that every little girl that sees me can resonate with me," she says, determined to be a role model for others.

Conclusion

Sarah Elizabeth Segrest's journey from a casual runner to a Team USA athlete is a narrative of resilience, identity, and inspiration. As she prepares for the 2026 World Championships, her story is a powerful reminder that our pursuits can lead us to discover not just our potential but also our heritage. For young Vietnamese-Americans, Sarah's journey underscores that representation matters, achievements are within reach, and sometimes, the journey to discovering one's roots starts with the courage to take the first step.