What Happens at an All-Women’s Triathlon Might Surprise You!

As a triathlon coach, I often hear from female athletes:

“I’m not a triathlete.”
“I can’t swim then bike, then run”
“A race with three sports? I can barely do one.”

And every time, I smile and say, “Just try an all-women’s triathlon.”

What Happens at an All-Women’s Triathlon Might Surprise You

You might expect competition, nerves, and sweat—and yes, you’ll get these emotions. But you’ll also find laughter, high-fives from strangers, and moments of strength you didn’t know you had. All-women’s triathlons aren’t just events—they’re full-on celebrations of effort, community, and courage.

Let me break it down, coach-style:

1. The Energy at an All-Women’s Triathlon Is Unmatched!

At an all-women’s triathlon, the energy is electric. Everyone’s a little nervous, everyone’s excited, and everyone is there to lift each other up. You’ll hear strangers cheering like you’ve known each other for years.

It’s like a group workout with 300 of your new best friends. I’ve seen women go from “I might cry” at the swim start to “I AM A WARRIOR” at the finish line—all because of the support around them.

 

 

2. Zero Gear Shame, Zero Ego at All Women’s Triathlons

Don’t have a fancy tri bike? No problem. Wearing your race belt upside down? We’ve all done it.

I’ve seen women crush sprint tris on cruiser bikes, mountain bikes—even borrowed bikes that squeaked the whole way. No one cares. At women’s triathlons, it’s about effort, not ego.

You belong there just as you are. (Yes, even if you still don’t know what a “brick workout” is.)

 

3. All Women’s Triathlons Are Perfect for First-Timers

If I had a dollar for every woman who told me, “I just want to finish,” and then signed up for another race the next day? I’d have enough to buy another foam roller I’ll never use.

All-women’s triathlon events are built for beginners. They’re un-intimidating, well-organized, and full of volunteers who will literally run alongside you if needed.

The goal? Finish proud—and maybe even enjoy the ride.

4. It’s About Strength, Not Speed at an All-Women’s Triathlon

I’ve coached women who’ve stood on podiums and women who’ve finished dead last—and the sense of accomplishment is exactly the same.

All-women’s triathlons are about showing up for yourself, not outrunning anyone else.

You’re proving that your body—and more importantly, your mind—can do hard things. That’s a win, no matter what the clock says.

 

5. All Women’s Triathlons Create Real Connections, Real Community

You might show up solo, but you’ll leave with stories, inside jokes, and maybe even a new training buddy or two.

There’s something about racing together (especially while slightly panicking in wetsuits) that bonds people fast. Some of the strongest friendships I’ve seen started on race day.

 

6. You Become a Role Model Just by Showing Up

Whether you realize it or not, someone is watching you—your kids, your friends, your coworkers.

When they see you doing something bold, something outside your comfort zone, it changes the narrative of what’s possible. Especially for girls.

You don’t have to win to be a powerful example. You just have to try.

 

Final Thoughts (Coach Hat On) for Signing Up for an All-Women’s Triathlon

If you’ve been waiting for the “perfect time” to do your first triathlon, this is it. Find an all-women’s triathlon, sign up, and trust me: you’ll walk away stronger, prouder, and maybe even hooked on the sport.

You don’t need to be fast. You don’t need to be fearless. You just need to start.

 

P.S. If you’re in the Tampa area, we’ve got THE most amazing all-women’s triathlon: The Tampa Bay BABES Triathlon at Ft. De Soto Park. This race is packed with support, joy, and all-around BADASSERY. If you look closely, you might even catch me coming out of triathlon retirement to toe the line alongside some incredible first-timers and seasoned athletes.

I’ll be the one high-fiving you and yelling, “You got this, girl!” all the way to the finish line.

Another great place to find all-women’s triathlons is at the USA Triathlon Women’s Series webpage. Some other favourite women’s only races we have come across are She Tris in North and South Carolina USA, Every Women Triathlon in Western Australia, Deva Divas, Chester UK, and if you’re looking for an amazing Women only Triathlon Camp – check out Club La Santa, Lanzarote 

Whichever one you pick, I’ll be cheering for you every step of the way. If you want to learn more about working with me as your coach, visit my 80/20 Endurance Coaching page.

 

80/20 Endurance Certified Coach Anne Sharkey