The SBR Women's Triathlon Team, based in Orem, Utah was started by shop owner Kyle Isaacs with the sole purpose of helping women to feel included in the sport. He listened to women express to him daily their desire to join a club or team,  but their feeling of intimidation keeping them from doing so. Can you really blame them? I've always found triathletes to be a friendly lot, but seeing them at races with their expensive carbon bikes and their sleek spandex clad, cheeta-like bodies can certainly deter any mom returning from maternity leave. Kyle's vision was a team that would accept and support each other regardless of size, experience and performance. His hope was to provide an environment where women would feel pushed to achieve their own excellence, whatever that definition meant to them, while finding friends and life long support in triathlon and life.

Last year, the team debuted with 13 members. Avia, NuSkin and Raw Rev jumped at the chance to join SBR as sponsors of the project. Their experience ranged from newbies who had yet to start their first race, to seasoned multiple Ironman finishers. Just as Kyle had hoped, the feeling was acceptance. With the help of former collegiate swim coach Steve Amundsen, the women worked on technique in the pool and distance in open water. Meeting for weekly runs, cycling and strength training, the team got physically stronger as their relationships grew. A few training weekends in St. George and Tifie Ranch added to the fun. And don't be fooled into thinking all this acceptance means weakness, the team boasted multiple podium finishes throughout the year.  "Having your team at a race cheering for you makes the whole experience more fun. I love the high fives and support throughout the race. It really makes a difference!" one team member remarked.

Another said, "These girls are great. I love being around them, they're so much fun and they really push me to work harder... I really liked racing at Echo as a team. Any girls weekend that includes a race is a winner as far as I'm concerned"

One added, "The guys at the shop are great. I came in for a bike fix and Kyle taught me how to do it myself. He even left the shop to pick a few of us up in the canyon when we had a bike issue. It's a great place to hang out after rides, nice couches! "

The SBR Women's Triathlon Team will be starting the season with a few more than they did last year. During the winter, the group has more than doubled and is still adding members with each meeting. The only requirement is the desire to make friends and reach your goals in the sport of triathlon. Oh- and you must be female. If you would like to join the team, contact Team Captain Brittany Rodrigues, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or stop by SBR Sports in Orem and ask any of the helpful gear heads you find milling about the shop.

SBR Women's Triathlon Team Members include: Brittany Rodrigues, Deena Thompson, Tammy Taylor, Ammie Black, Anita Norris, Jen Hamilton, Taylor Tandy, Sherri Tomlinson, Kelli Cherrington, McKenzie Mauigoa, Jennifer Smith, Melissa Stratton and Lynette Borup

Have a team or club we should know about? We would LOVE to hear! Contact Jen and let us know more, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .