Triathlon program begins at Newman University

The Newman University Triathlon program is officially underway.

Newman student-triathletes made their debut Sept. 18 at the CyMan Triathlon in Bondurant, Iowa.

A triathlon is a three-part race of swimming, biking and running. The Newman program is the first collegiate-sponsored Triathlon program in the state.

Triathlon Women’s Coach Heidi Coble said that she and Men’s Coach Jeff Lovgren were busy the first part of the year scouting for potential recruits. The inaugural season team includes four triathletes: one woman and three men.

“We have attended many local, regional and state swim meets and track meets and even basketball games to learn the talent in the area,” Coble said.

She added that they have been looking at student athletes from both high schools and community colleges in the area.

“We aren’t necessarily looking for the best swimmer or best runner, but want talented athletes who are willing to learn,” she said.

The Newman Triathlon Team competes in the Midwest Conference, which includes Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin.

“We will attend local and regional competitions leading us to Nationals in Tuscaloosa, Ala., in April 2017,” she said.

When not competing, team members will practice on eight new, state-of-the-art exercise bikes in the Newman weight room. The program is also creating a partnership with an area gym to provide indoor space for swim training. For this first year, Coble said, she and Lovgren hope to continue to build the program.

“We are honored to be a part of Newman and thrilled to pioneer this program. With triathlon being a NCAA emerging sport, we expect the interest in the sport will continue to grow.”

Picture above (l-r): Joel Beal, Brandon Steiner, Jacob Kleespie, and Nazareth Viramontes.