Triathlon Training at the Y

Andy and Carly Schrom met online in 2023 and quickly discovered a shared love of running and biking. Carly was also into swimming, but neither had ever competed in all three together at a serious level.  They ended up getting each other into triathlons. That same year, Carly completed two Ironman 70.3 races, and Andy did one. An Ironman 70.3, also called a Half Ironman, includes a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile bike ride, and a 13.1-mile run–all completed consecutively. Carly’s first world championship qualification at the 2023 70.3 Muncie really set things in motion for years to come. Since then, they’ve each finished seven Ironman 70.3 races, including two 70.3 World Championships, as well as Ironman Wisconsin this year, where Carly was the overall female champion by 30 minutes. “We are officially hooked,” they said, “There are countless 70.3 and full Ironman races in our future.”

The Y has played a central role in their training. They point to the facility’s pool as one of the biggest advantages. Equally important, they say, is the community. “The staff, lifeguards, other triathletes, and even other patrons in the locker room—it’s unbelievable,” they shared. “It’s a large reason why we love training at the Y”. Additionally, now that winter is here, treadmills become crucial for higher-intensity runs when it’s icy or below zero outside.

Most recently, Carly and Andy participated in the Ironman 70.3 World Championship in Spain. The 1.2-mile swim in the Mediterranean, the 56-mile mountainous bike course, and the 13.1-mile run along the beach and through town was the most challenging course they have ever competed on. Despite that, they were surprised by their run performances. Carly recorded a 1:22 (6:18/mi), and Andy a 1:26 (6:36/mi)—their best-ever run splits off the bike.

Their families were there every step of the way, including Carly’s sister, Claire, who also competed. “It takes a village for us to do these events,” they said. “All of our success and accomplishments are a reflection of the people around us. Our families are a major part of this, and our Y family is as well. We are thankful for an amazing place to train and the community at the Y to make it more enjoyable!”