Results/Photos

Date: July 25, 2026 Participant: Karon Nielsen #7161 Race: 2026 Spudman Olympic Triathlon Event: Olympic Triathlon Weather: Hot, but otherwise a great day for a triathlon.

Big Distance Jump Highlighted by a Strong Bike Leg Karon Nielsen stepped up in a big way this year, moving from the Sprint distance in 2025 to the full Olympic distance at Spudman. The downstream current made for a manageable swim entry into the race, and she transitioned into the bike course with solid rhythm. Her cycling leg stood out as the highlight of the day, averaging roughly 14 mph over the course a pace that moved her into the top third of the field at multiple points along the ride. The run proved to be the toughest part of the day, with pacing slowing considerably in the back half of the 10K. This is a common challenge when stepping up in distance for the first time, and it presents a clear opportunity: building run endurance specifically after the bike leg could help her close out future Olympic-distance races with more consistency. Overall, a strong showing in her first attempt at the longer format.