Arianna Werts Seizes Second Place at the Mid-East Collegiate Conference Championship in the 2023 Boilerman Triathlon

On a cool and partially cloudy morning with temperatures around 55°F and a high humidity level of 90%, the participants of the 2023 Boilerman Triathlon geared up for a day of tough competition and camaraderie at the White Oaks Campground, Monticello, Indiana. This significant event, hosted by the Purdue Triathlon Club, brought together a diverse set of triathletes, predominantly from the collegiate community, embodying both seasoned competitors and those taking their first strides in the triathlon journey.

Arianna Werts, representing the Triple Victor team, brought her A-game to the standard distance race, encompassing a 1500-meter swim, a 40-kilometer bike, and a 10-kilometer run. She clinched a remarkable second place in the overall female category.

Coming off a bustling fall season, where she participated in the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championships in Finland and transitioned back to the Purdue campus for school from her home in Minnesota, Arianna has been managing a packed schedule. Juggling academics, running the Purdue Triathlon Club, and training rigorously for the upcoming IRONMAN Arizona, Arianna has kept her focus sharp and her spirit high.

Despite her extensive focus on long and ultra courses in the recent past, she demonstrated remarkable versatility and agility at the Boilerman Triathlon. ”The race was a lot of fun, and it was cool to race in the collegiate scene again since this race was probably 90% collegiate athletes,” Arianna shared, expressing joy at the vibrant and encouraging atmosphere where teams cheered for every participant, fostering a true sense of community and sportsmanship.

The day forecasted changing weather conditions, with light winds intensifying as a storm approached the area for the afternoon. Yet, the morning retained a calm demeanor, offering a conducive environment for the athletes to showcase their prowess and for Arianna to secure her second overall position in a race that also served as the Mid-East Collegiate Conference (MECTC) championships, reflecting not only her individual skill and dedication but also the embodiment of the Triple Victor ethos.

It wasn’t just a competition but a manifestation of endurance, where every participant, irrespective of their background, came together to celebrate personal victories and shared joys, fostering a scene rich with determination and mutual encouragement.

As Arianna reflected on the race, her words resonated with the essence of the event — a fun, competitive space where everyone, no matter their pace, was met with cheers and encouragement, creating not just a race but a community celebrating every stride toward the finish line, and making the 2023 Boilerman Triathlon a truly memorable event.