YWCA's Triathlon is Lake Nokomis this Summer!

On Aug. 10, 2025, more than 1,400 women-identifying athletes will descend on Lake Nokomis for a day of swimming, biking, and running as part of the 16th annual YWCA Minneapolis Women’s Triathlon. The average triathlon gets less than 400 athletes, and YWCA Minneapolis is proud to state that their race has already sold out for the 2025 season. Even though there are already enough athletes, the YWCA is still looking for volunteers. They have 300 spots. As a community, I know we will have no problems filling these much-needed spots.

Inclusivity

I was lucky to be able to speak with Kym Zest, the YWCA race director and longtime triathlete. “YWCA has always been on the forefront of change in terms of racial justice and women’s equality,” Zest said. “Ultimately triathlons should be about more bodies becoming more capable… You don’t need a fancy bike. You can bike on whatever gets you to the grocery store… The gear itself can make you feel out of place,” Zest completed her first triathlon when she was 15 years old on a vintage bike. In fact, she even completed a 140.6-mile triathlon  on that same bike.

The YWCA has a long history of championing equity, from operating the first integrated swimming pool in Minnesota to today incorporating a land acknowledgement to singing, “Lift Every Voice and Sing," into the triathlon’s opening ceremonies. She pointed out that the average triathlete is a white middle-aged male, so having a race only open to women-identifying people helps to promote a sport where women have not held an equal share. 

Last year, the progress pride flag was added to the YWCA race shirts. “Why put that on there? To say it’s a safe place,” Zest said. She mentioned that some people questioned if they could be a part of the race, and her answer was to ensure all knew they were welcome. “At a time when everyone is really nervous. Anyone who is really concerned about human issues…  We are all very aware that these values are threatened.” Zest is proud to use her power to help to use her platform to open doors to inclusivity.

Fundraising for those in need

This triathlon raises money to help YWCA continue to thrive. “Some of it is just keeping the lights on in the buildings and diapers for early childhood education… It’s not glamorous, but those programs need funding.” Through racing, Zest helps the community raise funds for some of our most vulnerable populations.

How you can make a difference

Although the triathlon is full, the YWCA is still looking for volunteers. “All races simply don’t function without volunteers. Volunteers just make it safer and it makes it more fun,” said Zest. Volunteer captains start organizing six months leading up to the race. They work on crowd control, make sure waste is stored in proper bins, and are available to answer questions. Furthermore, racers don’t have their cellphones on them, so volunteers keep an eye out for racers and can call for help if needed. “And volunteering is a great way to see the race if you’re interested in racing in the future. You get more of an inside peak than if you were to stand on the sidelines and clap… It’s a really an amazing event. There are ways to get involved and all involvement helps support the mission-based programs for the YWCA.”

 I hope to see you at Lake Nokomis on Aug. 10 to support the racers and inclusivity. I know I will be there. If you are interested in volunteering, please visit: https://raceroster.com/102498.