Race Coverage

Emptying the Tank...

Wednesday, 26 August 2026 00:10

By Nick Jasmer

Northwoods Sprint Triathlon Race Report - What an absolutely picture-perfect day to race! The swim started hot and fast, but I was able to find some feet early, settle into a good rhythm, and put together a swim I was really happy with.

Once I hopped on the bike, it was time to get to work. I knew there were guys ahead of me I needed to catch and some strong athletes behind me that I needed to create a gap on. So I put the hammer down. With fresh pavement on the course, it was FAST, and I ended up putting down probably one of my best power outputs ever in a sprint triathlon.

Coming out of T2, I knew Spencer (set another course record!) was up the road and out of sight, but as I turned onto the Heartland Trail, I could see Brett (Winkelman) ahead. I settled into my pace and slowly started closing the gap. 

At the same time, I knew David (Lewis) and Andrew (Moen) were behind me and could RUN. At one point I looked back and could see David closing. Once I hit the turnaround, I knew there was absolutely no letting up.

From there it was all gas. Empty the tank and get to that finish line.

Those final minutes honestly felt like an out-of-body experience with how deep I was digging, but I was able to hold on and cross the line 2nd overall out of 170 athletes! 

Splits: 

Swim - 7:02

Bike - 33:52

Run - 19:14

Finish - 1:02:17

Place -  2nd Overall

Such a phenomenal day racing against some amazing triathletes. One of the things I’m most thankful for in this sport is the friendships it has given me. It was also awesome sharing the course with teammates from Branden Scheel Racing. Everybody crushed it!  Huge thank you to the race directors and volunteers who make this event possible. Thanks to my coach, for pushing me and believing in me.

And the biggest shoutout to my wife Abby and my little guy Noah for being there from start to finish cheering me on. Racing has a whole new meaning for me now. Every time I cross that finish line and get to see my little boy there looking up to me, I’m reminded that this is about so much more than a finishing time or a podium. 

What a day!