For the past two years USAT Collegiate Nationals has been hosted on the campus of Arizona State University in Tempe, Arizona. More than 100 collegiate teams compete and over 1200 athletes are part of the event.
This year’s theme was “Mustachionals” as in – all the guys (and some of the gals) were decked out in mustaches. Nationals features a draft-legal event on the first day, followed by an Olympic distance non draft-legal event and mixed team relay the next. Everyone converged for a post race awards banquet.
“This past weekend’s experience at Collegiate Nationals was awesome! So much energy and passion rolled into one race. The competition was fierce and it felt great to be apart of such a talented field of athletes. It feels great to be back in the sport of triathlon again, I’m looking forward to this upcoming summer of racing and learning even more about this unique and continuously growing sport.” ~ Brian Gorman (@briangorman1650)
“My favorite part of collegiate nationals would have to be the Mixed Team Relay. Being the final event, it was a great send-off for an already incredible weekend in Tempe, AZ. Toeing the line with so many great athletes, I couldn’t help but feel the intensity and excitement from the fans and teammates cheering everyone on. It was an amazing experience I will never forget!” ~ Connor Dilger (@Connor_Dilger)
“I loved the excitement in the atmosphere. So many different schools coming together to do what we love.” ~ Erin Paradis (@Erin_Paradis)
It was fun. It was exciting. Lot’s of cheers. Weird costumes. Mucho swim, bike and run! It’s something every athlete should attend. Take a look at some photos from Z3 athletes who competed – Erin Paradis (Colorado State), Brian Gorman (University of Minnesota) and Connor Dilger (University of Iowa).