A triumphiant triathalon
July 9, 2008
By Kendra Abernathy
Physically and emotionally fit women to compete in August race
After months of preparation and training, a half-mile swim, 12.4-mile bicycle ride and 3.1 mile run are all that remains between two Sammamish women and the finish line of the Danskin Women’s Triathlon.
Bonnie Kosko and Kristin Lucas are set to compete in the race Aug. 17.
Kosko and Lucas have both overcome personal trials in their journey to become triathletes.
After meeting her four-year goal of losing 100 pounds, Lucas said she needed a new goal to keep her motivated.
The Danksin Women’s Triathlon provided the perfect opportunity and motivation to continue her winning battle.
“Four years ago she realized it was okay to do something for herself, to make time to exercise,” said Inna Shamis a spokesperson for the triathlon. “She also realized that eating healthy and exercising wasn’t punishment, it wasn’t something she had to dread, but something to look forward to. A gift she gave herself.”
Lucas has been preparing for the triathlon by doing a combination of swimming, biking, running and strength training.
“I’ve had a lot of help in preparing for the race – everything from what kind of bike to buy, to how to do the transitions,” Lucas said. “The triathlon community is very supportive.”
Although this is only Lucas’ first triathlon, she says she is already planning to train and compete in the future.
“At first my goal was just to finish, to be able to say I did it. As I have progressed in my training I feel confident I’ll finish,” Lucas said. “I’d love to do the race in one hour and thirty minutes. That would be awesome.”
Kosko, who has also improved her health through her training routine, has participated in three prior triathlons, including last year’s Danskin.
“Kosko is a true inspiration,” Shamis said. “She is 62 years old, has lost 40 pounds and has controlled her type two diabetes through diet and exercise while training for this event.”
This year Kosko will be joined by her daughter-in-law and friend from Issaquah, and also by her 66-year-old sister-in-law from Port Orchard.
“When you run the Danskin event you catch the spirit and encourage others to be a part of it,” Kosko said. “The Danskin event is a super experience with women of all shapes and sizes supporting one another for a worthy cause.”
The Danskin Women’s Triathlon works with the Breast Cancer Research foundation to raise both funds and awareness for breast cancer with Triumph Apparel Corporation according to a statement released by Danskin.
In addition, 100 percent of funds raised by participants through the Danskin Women’s Triathlon Series Pledge Program will be directed to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation and the National Association of Team Survivor.
“My mother had breast cancer and therefore I had a desire to support the effort to find a cure,” Kosko stated.
Kosko’s goal for this triathlon will be to finish. She also always tries to improve upon her prior times, which she has accomplished each time she competes.
Kosko said she doesn’t know about her future as a triathlete due to an arthritic knee, but she said she is inspired at the start of each triathlon season to begin training again.
“My friend is my biggest cheerleader and she won’t let me quit,” Kosko said. “It is so helpful to have others who have the same goals so you can inspire each other to reach the next level.”
The triathlon is returning to Seattle for the 16th consecutive year, according to a Danskin press release.
The triathlon will be held at Genesee Park on the shores of Lake Washington and is open to females aged 14 and older, according to race regulations.
To learn more about the Danskin Women’s Triathlon visit www.danskin.com/triathlon.html.
Intern Kendra Abernathy can be reached at samrev@isspress.com.
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