A Tri-Umphant Finish for Hunterdon Health and Wellness Center’s Triathlon Team
Pictured: Joanne Colangelo gets ready for the 19.5 mile bike ride which was part of the Jerseyman Sprint and Half Ironman triathlons held at Spruce Run in Clinton Township.
Published May 27, 2010
A team of local triathletes, all participants in the Hunterdon Healthcare Health and Wellness Center’s 20-week triathlon training program, successfully went the distance at the Jerseyman Sprint and Half Ironman triathlons last Sunday, May 23, at Spruce Run Reservoir in Clinton Township. The 21-person team, many competing in their first triathlon, began the sprint race with a .6 mile loop swim followed by a 19.5 mile bike ride a 3.1 mile run through towns and farmlands surrounding the Clinton and Frenchtown areas.
Winning relay and individual performances among the team included, the relay team of Annette Marsh of Whitehouse Station and Elise Kaczynski of Glen Gardner, 16-years-old, placing third; Sharon Levin of Washington, placing first in Athena (women over 150 lbs.), and Eileen Papson of Glen Gardner, placing third in her age group. Another fine performance was turned in by team member, Nisim Parylian of Hampton, who successfully completed his first Half Ironman, a more challenging event consisting of a 1.2 mile swim, a 56.6 mile bike ride and a 13.1 mile ride.
To compete in a Sprint or Half Ironman triathlon, you don’t have to be an elite athlete or an accomplished swimmer, biker or runner. Just ask Joanne Colangelo of Glen Gardner, a 47-year-old nurse at Hunterdon Medical Center, and a newbie to triathlons.
After learning to swim last fall, Colangelo became motivated to attempt her first sprint triathlon. She says the triathlon training program “brought out my inner athlete” and gave her the confidence to accomplish an once-in-a-lifetime experience. “I was glad to have workouts that simulated race day such as the open water swim practices and ‘bricks’ - transitions from the swim to the bike to the run. I felt fully prepared on race day.” Besides the physical benefits, Colangelo said she enjoyed the camaraderie and new friendships with teammates. She and her husband Mike, who also competed in the Jerseyman, are already thinking about their next race.
The triathlon training program at the Hunterdon Health and Wellness Center (HHWC) offers hands-on coaching and individualized training plans for multi-sport enthusiasts. It integrates the newest sports techniques such as Total Immersion Swimming and Chi Running, both methods that utilize core muscle strength and improve fitness and performance.
Program coordinator and swim coach, Beverly Peterson, recommends the training program for anyone wanting to compete whether they are beginning or experienced triathletes. “Our program emphasizes form and technique which ultimately leads to the best performance. It is a balanced and structured approach to training that helps the athlete prepare for the physical and mental challenges associated with a triathlon.”
Peterson also notes the social rewards of training with and supporting others. “Training with others helps to foster an environment that is fun, challenging and rewarding. In the long run, a team environment can improve confidence and lead to a better overall performance.”
People looking to be part of a team and train with a group can learn more about HHWC’s training call 908-735-6884.