Women compete in Sylvania triathlon

About 250 people participated in annual event

Triathlete Suzanne Harshman, of Sylvania, finishing the race. About 250 participated in a women's only triathlon organized by Elite Endeavors in Sylvania. The event consisted of a 400-meter swim, a 12-mile bike ride, and a 3-mile run.

Hundreds of pink-capped women of all ages lined up on the Centennial Quarry steps, springing into the open water in timed succession for the start of the annual women’s triathlon.

“This women’s race is fun because a majority of the participants are first-timers, and it takes them out of their comfort zone,” Jim Donaldson said about the race that started at 7:30 a.m. with women racing in the open water, instead of the usual divided lanes at a pool.

PHOTO GALLERY: Sylvania women’s triathlon

Mr. Donaldson, 69, and his wife Joyce 66, owners of Elite Endeavors in Sylvania have been organizing the Women’s Only Triathlon and Dri-Triathlon for eight years in Sylvania.

Both have been hosting triathlons and athletic events in Sylvania for years, including the Sylvania Triathlon, which will be held Aug. 11. Mr. Donaldson and his wife are avid supporters of the athletic arena. He has competed in triathlons around the world, and Mrs. Donaldson, who no longer competes because of injuries, offers her expertise in officiating triathlons, including the 2012 London Olympic Games.

The annual triathlon included an option to compete in a dry competition, starting with a mile run that replaces the 400 meter swim, biking 11 miles, and finishing with a 5K race.

Competitors were divided into five-year age increments, from teenagers to 80 years old. Winners crossed the finish line at the bike path near the intersection of Sylvania-Metamora and Centennial Roads. Each received a trophy for first place.

For more information regarding upcoming triathlon competitions visit www.eliteendeavors.com.

Contact Natalie Trusso Cafarello at: 419-206-0356 or ntrusso@theblade.com.