2025 Race Captains
It takes over 300 race day volunteers to create a safe and fun triathlon. Volunteer Captains sign on for six months before the race to plan and manage each area.
Meet your 2025 team!
Admin Team
Jennifer Fitzharris-Funk, RD Assistant and Training
Former triathlete who raced the YWCA Women's Triathlon 2009-2019 while fundraising (and racing) as a sister-sister duo, raising a total of over $10,000 over six years!
I live in Minneapolis with my husband and our three rescue dogs. Enjoy running around the lakes and river road, long walking with the dogs (and husband) and cooking amazing meals!
Adam Vnuk, Equipment
I'm relatively new to the endurance sports world, but like many others, have been drawn into the amazing community that encompasses this sport.
I am primarily a runner having, completed a number of 5k's, 10k's and a couple of half marathons. It's my goal to complete a full marathon in 2025 and train my way into triathlons in the coming years.
Joli Shamblott, Volunteers & Operations
I enjoy living life to its fullest. Part of that is my commitment to my family, to myself and to the communities I live in or to others that I can support. I enjoy a challenge and figuring out ways to achieve success. I believe in integrity and accountability.
Karri Erbele, Timing & Results
I've been participating in endurance sports since 2017, after "retiring" from an Ashtanga yoga practice that proved too much for my wrists and shoulders.
Originally, I preferred swimming and biking, but over time, I've grown to enjoy running more because I can do it outside in a variety of conditions and locations with more ease.
Madilynn Garcia, Awards & Prizes
I use she/her pronouns. I am a Minneapolis transplant from Texas. I loves= to bike and run, especially when there are treats involved.
I am a dog mom to two rescue pups, Felix and Cello. I enjoy cooking and spending time with my spouse.
Racers Team
Meg Kelly, VIP
I joined the YWCA in 2007 and felt ready to try the Women's Triathlon when it started in 2008. I’ve done it every year since and consider it one of the best decisions of my adulthood.
Lilah Shepard, Accessibility
I use they/them pronouns. I love to bike and swim. I have a small dog named Tank Top, whom I love to go on adventures with. I am originally from Houston and lived in New Orleans for 10 years before moving here.
I am pursuing an MSW at Augsburg, and I would like to work with teenagers in schools. I am a qualified neutral or mediator with the Conflict Resolution Center, and I am passionate about the power of conflict to deepen and better our relationships.
Mari Ruddy, PPU
I've been a participant in the YWCA triathlon since 2014! I love triathlon!! Especially the run and bike parts. My longest tri was a Half Ironman.
I have lived with type 1 diabetes for 44 years, and I'm now navigating my third breast cancer round. I'm very open about both these health challenges I face daily. I recently published my second book about how to be an endurance athlete with chronic health challenges. The title is “Extreme Healing: Reclaim Your Life and Learn to Love Your Body.”
I am an Internship Coordinator at the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, and I coach people on how to use LinkedIn effectively. In my career past, I was a high school Spanish teacher and a high school principal. I blog a few times a month at www.mariruddy.com. I love cooking healthy food, and I rarely eat out, and I only drink 3-4 glasses of wine per year. My dog Sam and I walk and run together! Excited to help out this year in a focused way.
Jenny Thompson, PPU
I have been a triathlete for 10 years, and it has been a life-changing way to become healthier and more active, as well as make many friends. I work as a parent and family educator with early childhood family education (ECFE).
Alison Griffin, Chips & Bags
I've been a proud YWCA Minneapolis member since 2010, when I moved to Minnesota. And since I am a YWCA Minneapolis donor, volunteer, triathlon participant and group fitness instructor.
I live by Lake Nokomis with my partner and rescue dog, and, when I'm not supporting nonprofits as a communications consultant, you can find me playing outside, baking and cooking, entertaining friends and traveling.
Experience Team
Adam Gruenewald, Consumables
A native of Minneapolis, I have volunteered with YWCA Minneapolis in the past and currently work at Thomson Reuters.
I enjoy basketball, time with family and friends and watching sports and certainly spending time with my girlfriend and her three young kids (4, 6 and 8) and my sister and her husband.
Leslie Myint, Low Waste
I teach statistics and data science at Macalester College and love talking about the environment, sustainability and how we can collectively care for each other and our planet.
Outside of work, I enjoy pole dancing, rock climbing, weightlifting, reading, drawing and spending quality time with my partner and daughter.
Brooke Darst Rice, Baby Care
The YWCA Women's Tri is my favorite activity because I am energized by movement and community.
I work as a physical therapist at Hennepin Healthcare, specializing in pelvic health and cancer rehabilitation, and teach a cycle class at the YW to the early morning crowd.
At this stage of my life, I spend a lot of time cheering on my teenage kids in their joys and passions. I am super excited to cheer you on, too!
Cary Sfikas, YWCA Info
I have been a member of the Y since 1989! I have helped with the triathlon for many years while my daughter was a member of the Otters swim team.
Tori Sadler, Tri Info & Merch
I’ve been a member of YWCA Minneapolis since 2003, and although I’ve never participated in the Tri, I’ve volunteered for it several times over the last six years. I never cease to be impressed by the racers' accomplishments and the genuine community that exists at this event!
Swim Team
Ed Patton, Swim Safety
I am retired but work part-time in aquatics for Minneapolis Public Schools and MPS Community Ed. I am an active triathlete who wants to give back to the community
Mark Darst Rice, Beach (aka Swim Start)
Mark Darst Rice is an avid supporter of YWCA’s mission and YWCA Women's Tri in particular.
He lives in the Nokomis neighborhood and has participated/spectated all of the Women's Tri's since they started. He and his wife Brooke's primary practice is raising two young men to be students, athletes and overall good humans.
In his time outside of that he's a carpool driver, soccer warmup-er, club soccer travel manager, adaptive snowboard instructor, husband/spouse/partner, dog walker, grocery shopper, cook, design enthusiast and likely low on sleep. Oh yeah, he also helps positively impact people's lives through the design and manufacturing of a wide variety of medical devices.
Molly Silkey, Beach Assistant
I used to work at the YWCA from 2008 to 2012. During that time, I worked in Fit Kids Gym. I also have been working in the field of Special Education for 2O years.
It was through an amazing member that I trained for my first triathlon. I have done several, including the Women’s triathlon.
I also have two cats and love cooking and exploring the Twin Cities.
Transition Team
Leah D Holt, Transition - Operations
I am an analytical chemist by trade and served as the lead transition volunteer for the last three years.
I bring my passions for safety and problem-solving to provide a top-notch experience for everyone at the triathlon.
Sasha Van Neste, Transition - Athlete
Hi, I'm Sasha. I volunteered because I had a great experience at my first outdoor triathlon in 2019 with the YWCA and now believe that if I can do one, anyone can!
Since I'm not currently tri training and have managed projects for most of my career, it seems like a great time to get involved in the community aspect of helping to make tris happen for women who want to participate.
Talk to me for more info about spreadsheets, biking and strength training
Callaway Holt, Transition - Racks
I grew up in Powderhorn and returned to Minneapolis after college. In my free time, I enjoy playing guitar and spending time with my cats
Bike Team
Risa Hustad, Bike - Safety & SAG
I like bikes and other things that bring me outside and into my community
Nick Morales, Bike - Course Sprint
I believe in YWCA's mission of diversity, inclusion, equality, empowering women and fitness.
Run Team
Sonya Jongsma Knauss, Run - T to Cedar
I am a passionate endurance athlete, communicator and mom of four girls who thrives on challenge, resilience and community.
A dedicated runner with multiple marathons and ultramarathons under her belt, I believe in the power of sport in the lives of women and girls -- to build confidence, bring joy, create connections and push boundaries.
I am excited to support and empower fellow athletes in their journey to the finish line!
Mary Bauer, Run - SS
I am a mom, grandma, friend to many and registered nurse. I love spending time outdoors, and I’ve always wanted to participate in the YWCA triathlon, whether volunteering or as a racer.
Melissa Ratliff, Finish Assistant
I am a long-term volunteer and avid supporter of YWCA of Minneapolis and its programs. I am passionate about helping others, addressing community needs and service in all forms.
Leah Holt, Run - Cedar to Finish
I am a Minnesotan and have the traits commonly associated with a typical Minnesotan. Personal space, please, and not too spicy.
Training Team
Ash Theissen, Training
After moving to Minneapolis in 2022, I began teaching yoga at the YWCA. I have participated in the triathlon twice, and it is now one of my favorite days of the year!
I live in uptown with my partner and two dogs, where I spend a lot of time reading, writing, making art and getting outside.
Rebekka
I was bitten by the triathlon bug in 2024, but I consider myself a lifelong athlete.
Being new to the community, I'm eager to learn more and build bonds as we sweat together... ideally while having immense fun and laughter along the way!
Jennina (Nina) Perez, Training
I'm excited to be here, working as a team and cheering you on as you put in the effort to be the best version of yourself.
This year will be my 10th triathlon, and I'm happy to share any ups and downs that might be encountered.
Alia Carter, Training
A recent transplant to the Twin Cities, I enjoy learning about my new home, including delicious restaurants, local breweries and museums.
When not exploring, I tell the coolest dad jokes to my dog, Newton and cat, Io.
Amy DeBruin, Training + FB
I never thought of myself as an endurance athlete and I was terrified for my first triathlon. Now swimming, biking and running are part of my life.
My boys grew up watching me train and would come cheer me on, I would like to think that they are proud of my hard work.
Lesa Hudak, Training + FB
My name is Lesa (pronounced like Lisa). I have two kids, currently 12 and 18; two dogs from rescue facilities, and a supportive husband. We live in the Kingfield neighborhood of Minneapolis and love how walkable our neighborhood is.
I like cooking, reading and spending time with friends and family.
Camila Pacheco-Fores, Returning Support
I’m a transplant to Minnesota and have somehow enticed my wife, my sister, my wife’s sister and my two cats to live here too. I’m an immigration and human rights lawyer, I love the outdoors and I have two chickens. This will be my third triathlon!
Kk, Returning Support
I'm a lover of relaxation, fitness my family and diet coke. You'll probably see me out and about playing Pokémon Go or reading in a hammock.
Caroline McCard, Training + FB
I am an enthusiastic promoter of triathlon for all people and have over 15 years of triathlon race experience. I also work professionally as a social worker, and live with two dogs, one cat and 12 chickens
Jo O'Donenll, Returning Support
I use they/them pronouns, and I am a fourth-year medical student at the University of Minnesota and a just-for-fun triathlete. I find joy in all kinds of movement and use exercise as a way to manage stress.
During the summer, I focus on triathlon training, but during the winter, you can find me reffing hockey games for a local rec league. I love the YWCA triathlon community and love introducing more people to the sport and the organization!