National Team Members Compete in Danskin Women's Triathlon

NATIONAL TEAM MEMBERS COMPETE IN DANSKIN WOMEN'S TRIATHLON

Danskin

National's very own triathletes (left to right) Susie Weber, Carol Bichon Jackson and Misty Burkland competed in this year's Danskin event.

On August 20, 2000, Seattle hosted the eleventh annual Danskin Women's Triathlon. Three National team members, Misty Burkland, Susie Weber, and Carol Bichon Jackson, participated in the "sprint" event.

The Danskin is a nationwide series of triathlons held throughout the summer in seven cities around the United States. Since its inception in 1990, more than 50,000 women have participated in the event, which is comprised of a .75 kilometer swim in Lake Washington, a 20K bicycle ride, and a 5K run around Seward Park&emdash;approximately half of the distances that challenge Olympic athletes. The Danskin benefits a local organization, the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, which funds grants, education, screening and treatment projects around the world.

Misty Burkland was awed by the supportive environment. "Everyone comes away inspired by the triathletes who are either cancer survivors or are currently undergoing treatment for cancer," said Misty, who did the triathlon last year and convinced her teammates to give it a try in 2000.

At 52, Carol's motto is "don't get injured, don't get sick," and her goal is to "complete, not compete" so that each event remains a fun-filled endeavor.

Kelley McCaffray Martin, who participated in last year's event, opted out in 2000. She and husband Phil are expecting their first child in mid-February. Perhaps with the enthusiasm displayed by Kelley, Susie, Misty and Carol, next year's National team will be even larger!