The Rise Up Sparks, Class of 2026!

When we launched the Sparks 6-week training program for the Lewisburg Triathlon, the goal was simple: get the athletes ready to successfully complete the triathlon. We wanted them to discover the sport of triathlon in a fun, supportive environment. Over the six weeks, these six athletes learned to bike and run (bonus: they were all strong swimmers already!) with confidence, encouraged each other through challenges, and became triathletes! All six demonstrated courage, determination, and tremendous personal growth. We couldn’t be prouder of what they accomplished!

Quincy finished the program stronger and more confident than when he started. One of the highlights of the season was seeing him share so many of our group rides with his dad, creating memories together while building fitness and confidence for the triathlon. Through his participation in Sparks, his parents were motivated to do a two-person relay at Lewisburg, making the day an event for the whole family!

Georgia came into Sparks ready to try something new, and over the course of the program, discovered that she is stronger and more capable than she realized. She embraced the challenges of triathlon training, found a new sport she loves, and will be continuing her journey this summer as a member of the Rise Up Rockets! Like Quincy, her dad also joined us on group rides and runs!

Braelyn came into Sparks as a strong swimmer and used the program as an opportunity build her cycling and running skills. Throughout the season, she gained confidence and speed on the bike and developed more endurance for the run. It was especially fun to see her mom join us for several rides and runs, making the experience a family adventure. She is excited to do more triathlons!

Although she tends to be quiet, Maddy made a big impression through her actions. A strong athlete from a family of cyclists, she was dedicated to her training and then rose to the occasion and raced even stronger than she had trained, earning her a place on the podium in her age group.

When Ryan joined Sparks, he was already a strong swimmer, but the bike leg was the biggest question mark. With a new bike, a willingness to learn, and plenty of determination, he quickly gained cycling skills and confidence. He developed into a capable triathlete and confidently took on the challenge on race day. His mom joined us on one of our rides, too!

Eliana came into Sparks as a hardworking swimmer with limited experience in cycling and running. Over the course of the program, she gained tremendous confidence, especially on the bike. With the help of a donated road bike and a lot of hard work, she became a stronger cyclist and put together an outstanding race day performance. She discovered how capable she is of doing hard things!