Central College Triathlon Team Shines at Prairie State Cup
Central College Triathlon Team Shines at Prairie State Cup
On a crisp, competitive day at Millikin University, the Central College triathlon team, led by the spirited freshman Adeline Koritz from Clinton, Illinois, showcased their growing prowess in the challenging world of collegiate triathlon. The event, part of the Prairie State Cup, saw Central College making significant strides against a backdrop of seasoned competitors, including the formidable NCAA Division I team from Duquesne University, which clinched the team title.
Adeline Koritz, in her freshman year, has quickly become a cornerstone of the Central team, finishing as the top performer for her team for the third time in her nascent career. Her finish at 24th overall, clocking in at one hour, 16 minutes, and 43 seconds, speaks volumes about her dedication and potential. Coach Jennie Hedrick-Rozenberg couldn't hide her admiration, noting, "She's been great. She's pushing everybody on our team. If she can catch up with our fastest swimmers out of the water, it will help her a lot on the bike to draft with them. And she'll have more energy for her run.”
Not far behind, Taylor Jones, a junior from Knoxville, marked a personal best by finishing second for Central, taking the 29th spot with a time of 1:17.59. The team's depth was further highlighted by juniors Luci Laidlaw from Pella and Grace Benson from Newton, who finished 32nd and 36th respectively. Coach Hedrick-Rozenberg praised Luci's solo effort on the bike and Grace's strong mental game during a challenging run through a pollen-filled prairie.
The event was not just a test of physical stamina but also of mental toughness, with conditions that pushed each athlete to their limits. The Central College team's performance under official race conditions—a 750-meter swim, a 20-kilometer draft-legal bike, and a 5-kilometer run—was a testament to their hard work and the strategic guidance of their coaching staff.
Looking ahead, the team is gearing up for the USA Triathlon West Regional Qualifier in Springfield, Missouri, on October 12. This upcoming event will be crucial in determining their standing for the national meet in November. With the momentum gained from the Prairie State Cup, Central College's triathlon team is poised to make a significant impact on the national stage.
As the autumn leaves begin to turn, reflecting the change of seasons, so too does the Central College triathlon team continue to evolve, adapt, and aim higher under the guidance of Coach Hedrick-Rozenberg and the remarkable performances of athletes like Adeline Koritz. Their journey is a compelling narrative of growth, challenge, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the demanding world of collegiate triathlon.
Who is Adeline Koritz?
Adeline Koritz is a freshman triathlete at Central College who finished as the top Dutch competitor at the Prairie State Cup hosted by Millikin University.
What was Adeline Koritz's performance at the Prairie State Cup?
Adeline Koritz finished in 24th place overall with a time of 1 hour, 16 minutes, and 43 seconds.
How did the Central College triathlon team perform at the event?
Central College placed seventh out of 12 teams in the event.
What are the components of the triathlon event in which Central College participated?
The triathlon consisted of a 750-meter swim, a 20-kilometer draft-legal bike ride, and a 5-kilometer run.
Who were the other top finishers from Central College?
Other top finishers included Taylor Jones (29th), Luci Laidlaw (32nd), and Grace Benson (36th).
What is the next event for the Central College triathlon team?
The next event for the Central College triathlon team is the USA Triathlon West Regional Qualifier in Springfield, Missouri on Saturday, Oct. 12.
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