Beaver Falls, Pa. - The St. Thomas Aquinas College Women's Triathlon team faced a larger, more competitive field of triathletes on Saturday at the Beaver County Tri Cup/Duquesne University Invitational.
Nine opposing schools, including Division I powerhouses, Duquesne University and Texas Christian University provided stiff competition for Spartans Hanna Jung and Chanelle Russell, but the pair excelled and made sure that Division II athletes were making a profound statement as well.
Jung completed the race that has jinxed her the last two years, and is steadily improving as the team looks to hit its peak for regionals in October. Russell has also made strides as well and continues to focus on race day efforts and a strong, positive mindset.
Triathlon not only tests you physically, but a big part of race day success starts with your mental strategy. Positive self talk and visualization of each part of the race course helps you push through when it gets tough. It also allows you to stay focused when things don't go as planned.
STAC's next collegiate cup event takes place in two weeks at the Robious Landing Triathlon in Richmond, Virginia.