Naperville native to compete in Germany triathlon

Most people dream of seeing the world in their lifetime.

Jocelyn Petrella is seeing the world, all right. By water, foot and bike.

Sunday, the Naperville native will compete in the Hamburg BG Triathlon World Championships in Hamburg, Germany.

The event kicked off earlier this week, and Petrella said it is expected to draw 8,000 athletes and 300,000 spectators from around the world. Petrella will compete in the Elite Women's race.

"I've never done a triathlon outside of the U.S. This possibly could be the largest triathlon ever staged," Petrella said. "It's neat. I think the Europeans really get into it."

Petrella, a member of the swim team at Naperville North High School and later in college at Princeton University, had her first experience in international triathlon competition two years ago at the Age Group Triathlon World Championships in Honolulu.

She placed 19th in the 25-29 year age group, high enough to qualify for Team USA. Petrella skipped the worlds competition last year as she was married, limiting her schedule to local races.

"I think it gave me motivation to go after it this year," Petrella said.

Petrella has been busy racing this summer. She was first overall at the Women's Danskin Triathlon in July in Aurora, Colo.; fourth overall female at the 5430 Sprint Triathlon in July in Boulder, Colo.; and second overall female in July at the 5430 Boulder Peak Triathlon.

Petrella now lives in Denver, working on a Ph.D. in clinical psychology at the University of Denver. She plans to turn professional next year, doing some races that involve prize money.

"I'm excited to race at that level," she said. "The bike is my weakest event, but I've got better. I know what I need to work on."

Although Petrella doesn't have a coach and doesn't document her training schedule, she has followed a regular race training plan this year.

She raced in a Half Ironman in Boulder Aug. 12, then competed with her husband in the Rattlesnake Triathlon Aug. 18, taking second overall among women. Since then Petrella has taken time off.

"I'm definitely more rested for this race," she said. "This is the highlight of the year for me."

Petrella has been to Germany once before, but not for a competition. She did participate in the Italian Junior Olympics in eighth grade.

From what she hears, the Hamburg course is a flat, spectator-friendly loop. She expects the weather to be in the 60s and possibly raining.

"It's supposed to be a fast course. It's hard to compare to ones over here," she said.

Petrella said there would be a few organized rides prior to Sunday to tour the course. She would like to bike and run it beforehand.

Petrella definitely won't stay cooped up in her hotel room.

"I am the type that likes to go out and see the sites, take advantage of where I am," she said. "It takes your mind off the race."