Northwest Indiana Triathlete Club Begins 7th Season

    PORTAGE, IN, April 26, 2019 /24-7PressRelease/ -- On Saturday, February 16th the Northwest Indiana Triathlete (NWI TRI) Club kicked off their 7th season at Woodland Park in Portage. Athletes of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels came together to ring in a new year of competition. A triathlon consists of swimming, biking, and running all during a single event.

Starting off the kickoff party was new sponsor and guest speaker Dr. Brian McGuckin of Valparaiso. Dr. McGuckin gave an informative talk on how to improve energy levels in endurance sports through common sense eating and nutrients. Representatives from Trailblazers Bike Barn, a sponsor of the club located in Hobart, brought in various bikes for the athletes to see and try out. Also, in attendance was Leon of the infamous Leon's World's Fastest Triathlon located in Hammond. Leon handed out race information and answered questions regarding his event which has supported veterans for many years. Athletes tried on uniforms and participated in a raffle that offered free entries to races, gift cards, NWI tri gear, and sports equipment.

With 6 years gone by and no signs of slowing down, Club president Samantha Sutherland recognized the youngest and oldest members of the club. Penny Lawrence, 17 and a Junior at Chesterton High School, is the youngest member beginning her third year participating in open water swims and triathlons. Penny is known for coming out of the water early, and often first, at local triathlons and swims. William "Bill" Pauley of Valparaiso is the oldest member at the age of 83. Many people in the running and triathlon communities know Bill very well and enjoy his infectious smile and positive energy at racing events throughout the year. Bill is an accomplished triathlete. In the USAT National ranking system he is listed as 1st in Indiana, 1st in the Midwest, and 17th nationally in the 80-84 age group.

NWI Tri Club encourages all former, current and would be triathletes to check out their website at NWITRI.net and even to attend an event to meet the members. All skill levels and all ages are always welcome.

Northwest Indiana Triathletes is a diverse group of athletes who share the passion and desire to compete in triathlons, duathlons, aquathlons, and other multi-sport events. We are a USA Triathlon registered club with our members ranging from beginner triathletes to veteran Ironman finishers. Members of NWITRI are enthusiastic, friendly, supportive and dedicated to promoting an active, healthy, and fun lifestyle. We provide a variety of resources to our members including group swims, bikes, runs, clinics, social gatherings, sponsorship deals and race support.

# # #