Women confront three-part challenge in Naperville triathlon
More than 1,500 women confronted a three-part challenge Sunday morning during the fourth annual Gildan Esprit de She Naperville Women's Triathlon, then celebrated their accomplishments together.
It was swim, bike, run, then party for the athletes, who were treated to free photos, manicures, hair-braiding, non-alcoholic sangria and a healthy lifestyles market at Centennial Beach after finishing the race.
The competition featured a half-mile swim through the waters of the former quarry at the beach, a 13.3-mile biking course and a 3.1-mile 5K run as the finale.
Audrey Ernst, 17, of St. Charles, crossed the finish line first, with a time of 1 hour, 5 minutes and 41 seconds. Behind her were Jennifer Arbetman Garrison of Naperville and Eryn Kubinski of Shorewood, in second and third place, respectively.
"It feels amazing," Ernst said. "This is the fifth year I've competed in this race and the first year I've won it. So I'm feeling really good."
Finishers medals came complete with charms and the top three women in each age group were rewarded with winners necklaces.
The triathlon is the first of two in Naperville each year. The Naperville Sprint Triathlon, open to women and men, is scheduled for Sunday, Aug. 7.