Navy Triathlon Team's Thrilling Journey to NCAA Nationals

Navy Women's Triathlon Team Set to Conclude Season at NCAA Nationals

This weekend marks a significant milestone for the Navy women's triathlon team as they gear up for the NCAA Nationals in Clermont, Florida. The event promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the 2024 season, showcasing the culmination of hard work and dedication from our athletes.

Event Details

The championship will unfold over two days, starting on Friday at 10:45 a.m. with the swim segment at the picturesque Lake Louisa State Park. The competition will resume on Saturday at 10:00 a.m., with the starting times for the bike segment determined by the swim results from the previous day. This sequential format adds an extra layer of excitement, as athletes will have to strategize their efforts across both days.

Race Format

Participants will tackle a standard triathlon sequence consisting of a 750m swim, followed by a 20km bike ride, and concluding with a 5km run. This format tests their endurance and versatility, challenging them to excel across all three disciplines.

Following the Action

Fans can keep up with the live results by visiting the Navy Sports website, ensuring supporters won't miss a moment of the action.

Team Dynamics

Under the guidance of Head Coach Billy Edwards, the team is poised for a strong performance. Senior captain Emely Vela, in her final NCAA appearance, aims to leave a lasting mark, demonstrating the progress she's made during her tenure. Freshmen Dylan Cashin and Natalie Wang, alongside sophomores MC Kistler and Ella Sims, are also set to make significant contributions, each bringing their unique strengths to the fore.

Seeding and Expectations

The Navy team enters the championships seeded 13th among 15 competing teams. This underdog status is a position the team embraces, ready to defy expectations and showcase their growth. The top-seeded Arizona State Sun Devils, with their impressive track record, are the ones to watch, having dominated the scene with seven consecutive national championships.

Celebrating Achievements

Post-race, the top three athletes will be honored at the awards ceremony, a moment of recognition for their exceptional performances. For our team, this event is not just about placements but about personal bests and the sheer joy of competing at the national level.

Reflections from Coach Edwards

Coach Edwards emphasizes the importance of this event as a learning experience and a platform for growth. "This is the nationals, and it only gets faster each year," he notes. "Our team has solid opportunities to compete with the best and learn a lot about ourselves."

Spotlight on Emely Vela

In a special feature presented by Northrop Grumman, senior captain Emely Vela shares insights into her journey and preparations for her final collegiate race. Her story is one of resilience and determination, serving as an inspiration to her teammates and fans alike.

As the Navy women's triathlon team heads into the NCAA Nationals, they carry with them the spirit of excellence and the support of the entire Navy community. It's more than just a race; it's a celebration of how far they've come and a testament to where they're headed. Join us in cheering them on to a strong finish!

For more details, follow the team's journey on our official social media pages and stay updated with real-time results this weekend. Let's go Navy!

What event is the Navy women's triathlon team participating in this weekend?

The Navy women's triathlon team is closing out its 2024 season at the NCAA Nationals in Clermont, Fla. this weekend.

When and where will the NCAA Nationals for women's triathlon take place?

The NCAA Nationals for women's triathlon will begin with the swim portion on Friday at 10:45 a.m. and continue on Saturday at Lake Louisa State Park, starting at 10:00 a.m.