Press Release:

YWCA of Minneapolis launches new Women's Triathlon

MINNEAPOLIS - Mar. 3, 2008 -- The YWCA of Minneapolis has opened registration for a new women's only sprint triathlon. "The YWCA has been empowering women and girls since 1891, and this is a direct extension of our mission," declared YWCA CEO Becky Roloff, "to create a triathlon dedicated to supporting women of all ages and all athletic abilities."

The triathlon is a sprint-distance race (500yd swim/15mi bike/5K run) that will take place Sun. Aug. 17th at Baker Park in Maple Plain, MN. The race is limited to 500 participants and race directors Jan Guenther and Paul Johnson predict it will fill quickly. "I've been involved with many races over the years, but this triathlon is about celebrating women's fitness and encouraging women to achieve personal goals in a fun, safe, and supportive environment," said Guenther, a distinguished veteran triathlete.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the YWCA of Minneapolis Women's Wellness program - empowering urban women of color to take control of their health. For more information, visit www.ywcawomenstri.org.

About the Race Management Team
The YWCA Women's Triathlon is co-directed by Jan Guenther and Paul Johnson. The event is managed in partnership with Pickle Events, Midwest Events and Three Rivers Park District. It will be a USA Triathlon sanctioned and officiated event.

Jan Guenther has been doing triathlons and multi-sport events since the mid-1980's. She is Minnesota's most distinguished female triathlete and co-founder and owner of Gear West Ski & Run and co-founder of Gear West Bike & Tri. She has directed the Gear West Duathlon, the Ironkids Triathlon and numerous running and ski races including Race for the Cure.

Paul Johnson is the Endurance Sports Specialist at the YWCA of Minneapolis. He has been an avid multi-sport enthusiast since his first triathlon in 1980. He was formerly the cross country and track coach at the College of St. Catherine and is a certified USA Triathlon Race Director.

About the YWCA of Minneapolis
The YWCA of Minneapolis is a nonprofit organization striving to empower women and girls, and eliminate racism. The YWCA of Minneapolis has been empowering women and girls since 1891 and is a community leader in health and fitness.

Media Contact:
Ellen Cleary
YWCA of Minneapolis
ecleary@ywcampls.org