TAMIU Athletes Soar at Seeds of Change Triathlon

Amidst the frigid temperatures of Saturday, Nov. 9th, dozens of determined athletes gathered at the grounds of North Central Park with the hopes of conquering Casa Yoga's first annual Seeds of Change Triathlon Race. Amongst these spirited athletes were Texas A & M International University's (TAMIU) own Cross Country team members, Artemio Romero Jr. and Ismael Madrigal. After competing in countless races this past season that tested them both physically and emotionally, the pair saw this festival as the perfect opportunity to demonstrate the strengths they have acquired throughout their individual running careers.

Both Romero and Madrigal woke up bright and early for this event and managed to swim through a brisk 200 meters of the North Central pool, bike 5.8 miles through rough terrain, and ultimately finish the race with a swift run of 2.9 miles. The pair noted their satisfaction at achieving both personal goals as well as making their mark amongst Laredo's more seasoned athletes by scoring within the top ten with Madrigal coming in at an impressive 3rd place and Romero in 8th.

With an impressive nine years of competitive running underneath his belt, Romero had always dreamt of participating in a triathlon race, "Seeing all the other competitors on Saturday morning made me very excited and grateful that I had finally taken advantage of such an amazing opportunity. Sacrificing my usual weekend sleep was definitely worth it!" Romero, along with Madrigal and the remainder of the triathlon participants, braved the freezing temperatures of the pool, in addition to the harsh gusts of wind during both the cycling and running portions. Above all, Romero notes his determination to reach the finish line as one of his main motivations through such strength defying conditions, "I was excited to finish my first triathlon. Crossing the finish line was indescribable and I can't wait to do it again in the future."

It is evident that this TAMIU athlete's hard work has definitely paid off and he encourages other students to participate in upcoming triathlons. This was an event like no other because it involved not one, but three sports. Even though it may seem like a lot of work, a student with a good amount of determination can finish a triathlon. Romero says, "I recommend it because it is something new, something different to do in Laredo." Students interested should stay on the look out because this event is held yearly and could be an exciting and fun thing to try. Not only is it rewarding physically, but it is also a noble cause.

For more information regarding future events please contact Casa Yoga at 956-307-YOGA.

(Allison Ramirez and Karen Alanis may be reached at allisonramirez@dusty.tamiu.edu and karenalanis@dusty.tamiu.edu).