In the quaint town of Durango, Colorado, where the weather dances between thunderstorms and clear skies, a young athlete named Zia Fadil is redefining what it means to be a champion. At just 13 years old, Zia has already left an indelible mark on the triathlon world, recently clinching the top spot in the women's category at the 2024 Payson Orchards Triathlon in Payson, Utah. Not only did she dominate her category, but she also impressively ranked 12th overall among 215 competitors, clocking in at a swift 1 hour, 3 minutes, and 29 seconds.
This victory wasn't just a repeat performance; it was an improvement. Zia was five seconds faster than the previous year, a testament to her growing skill and determination. The format of this triathlon was a reverse sprint—beginning with a 5-kilometer run, followed by an 18-kilometer bike ride, and finishing with a 300-yard swim. This setup played to Zia's strengths, allowing her to leverage her running prowess to gain an early advantage.
Reflecting on her performance, Zia shared, "My time was pretty good compared to last year, it was a little faster. Winning the woman's race last year as well might have helped me win again this year, the confidence knowing I’ve won it once before and I can win it again.” It's clear that her previous successes have not only bolstered her confidence but have also sharpened her competitive edge.
Zia's journey in triathlon is complemented by her commitment to cross-training; she swims with the Durango Swim Club during the winter months, which enhances her endurance and versatility as an athlete. Despite finding the biking segment the most challenging, her dedication to improving in all aspects of the sport is evident.
Just three weeks prior to her triathlon triumph, Zia showcased her athletic versatility at the prestigious Running Lane Track Meet in Huntsville, Alabama. Competing mostly against high schoolers, she ran a commendable 10:59.99 in the 3200-meter race, placing her as the fourth-fastest middle schooler and the second-fastest seventh grader. In the mile, she clocked a 5:19.09, further proving her mettle on the track.
Looking ahead, Zia is setting her sights on the USA Track and Field Colorado Junior Olympic Track & Field Championships in Aurora. With her relentless spirit and continuous improvement, the sky is the limit for this young athlete. Durango has indeed found a rising star in Zia Fadil, whose journey reminds us all that age is but a number when it comes to chasing greatness.
What was the recent accomplishment of Zia Fadil?
Zia Fadil recently finished first in the women's category and 12th overall in the 2024 Payson Orchards Triathlon in Payson, Utah. Her final time was 1 hour, 3 minutes, and 29 seconds.
What is unique about the Payson Orchards Triathlon format?
The Payson Orchards Triathlon uses a reverse sprint triathlon format, where participants complete a 5-kilometer run, an 18-kilometer bike ride, and finish with a 300-yard swim, instead of the usual swim-bike-run sequence.
What other sports does Zia Fadil participate in?
Besides triathlons, Zia Fadil participates in running and swimming. She primarily competes in running and swims with the Durango Swim Club in winter as part of her cross-training.
How did Zia Fadil perform at the Running Lane Track Meet in Huntsville, Alabama?
At the Running Lane Track Meet, Zia Fadil ran the 3200-meter race in 10:59.99, placing 35th out of 79 girls and was the fourth-fastest middle schooler. She also ran the mile in 5:19.09, securing the seventh fastest time among middle schoolers.
What are Zia Fadil's future competition plans?
Zia Fadil is considering participating in the Lake Nighthorse Triathlon in September. She is also scheduled to compete in the USA Track and Field Colorado Junior Olympic Track & Field Championships in Aurora.
#ZiaFadil #PaysonOrchardsTriathlon #reversetriathlon
Source:
