Grand Valley State University’s Triathlon Club aims to show that endurance sports are about more than just distance in the pool, on the bike or on the road. For the group’s members, the club is as much about building community and having fun as it is about competition.

A triathlon is an endurance-focused, multi-sport athletic competition, often combining swimming, cycling and running. A shorter triathlon typically averages between one and three hours, although they can last up to 17 hours in the most difficult iteration, the IRONMAN Triathlon.

“The club was created to give students at GVSU a space to train for and learn about triathlon in a supportive environment,” said Preston Mitchell, the group’s vice president. “A few of us had been training on our own, and we saw an opportunity to bring people together who enjoy swimming, cycling and running, whether they’re experienced racers or just curious to try the sport.”

When President Ella Gaylord first arrived on campus last school year, there was no student organization for the sport. That quickly changed when Mitchell posted flyers seeking interest. Gaylord attended the first meeting and immediately wanted to help build the club into something lasting.

“What started small has grown into one of the highlights of my college experience,” Gaylord said. “A major goal of mine with the club is to make it accessible and enjoyable for all levels. We do not charge dues, and have members (with) zero experience in the sport, as well as athletes completing IRONMAN distance events. That (variety) plays a major part in why I think the club is so enjoyable.”

The mix of inclusiveness and ambition carried the members into their first race as a team: the Sparty Triathlon at Michigan State University last November. Gaylord earned second place overall, marking a milestone for the new club.

This semester, the Triathlon Club trains three times a week at the Recreation Center and Aquatic Center. Members participate in cycling on Tuesdays, running on Wednesdays and swimming on Thursdays. Practices run from 5:00-6:30 p.m. The club’s E-Board understands that some members might not be able to adhere to this schedule. They often arrange unofficial workouts at other times, giving students with different class or work schedules a chance to participate.

“It’s completely fine for members to attend only some practices, especially since we have no dues,” Gaylord said. “We also meet unofficially outside of practice for other training sessions as people are available, so if typical practice times don’t work, don’t count us out.”

While the main three triathlon events form the backbone of exercises for the club, the sport’s diverse history reflects a broad range of activities. Members have embraced cross-country skiing, sledding, ice skating, and both early morning and late night training runs. The group also takes part in running events such as the Winter Trail Fest and the Corewell Health Irish Jig 5K in Grand Rapids. Warmer months bring summer rides and early swims, while colder times have featured plunges in the Grand Haven City Beach. Additionally, the group plans to compete in USA Triathlon Collegiate Club races this year, with hopes of qualifying for nationals.

Both Mitchell and Gaylord emphasize that Triathlon Club is not only about training and competing; it’s also about creating a culture where students feel welcome, regardless of athletic background.

“It’s a place to learn and grow in an amazing sport while surrounded by people that you can learn from, as well as people that can learn from you,” Gaylord said.

The club also organizes movie nights, team dinners and outings to celebrate its members competing individually in local events, encouraging connection and strengthening relationships between members.

“Our main goals for the year are to grow membership and make the sport approachable for students of all fitness levels,” Mitchell said.

With no membership dues, a flexible attendance policy and a growing slate of activities, the club aims to be one of GVSU’s most accessible athletic communities. As the group looks toward the future, members hope to expand their presence in collegiate competitions while continuing to provide camaraderie and support for Lakers throughout their individual fitness journey.

“This club is enjoyable because it’s a community,” Gaylord said. “We’re not just training for races, we’re creating friendships, supporting each other and making triathlon something every Laker can access.”