PLEASANT PRAIRIE, Wisc. — Sun Devil women's triathlon got back to their winning ways to successfully kick off 2019, sweeping the podium at the Central Regional Qualifier to qualify for the National Championship in their first opportunity to do so this season. Kyla Roy (first), Audrey Ernst (second) and Kira Stanley (third) accomplished the feat for ASU.
"First team victory of the 2019 collegiate season with a full podium sweep," coach Cliff English said. "First place for Junior Kyla Roy who just distanced herself in the final half mile from teammate Audrey Ernst and Kira Stanley, who rounded out the podium. Olivia Jenks finished six, Cat Guiseffi finished seventh, senior Sara Quintero finished ninth and Kenzi Wilson finished 15th in a race field size of 79 competitors. It was an excellent race that started with rainy conditions but dried up nicely."
Roy led the field of competitors with a total time of 1:00:44, just 10 seconds in front of teammate Ernst. Stanley rounded out the podium for a time of 1:01:29, meaning less than 40 seconds separated all three podium Devils.
"I'm very pleased with our team performance in our first competition of 2019," English said. I'm proud of the individual performances of all the team members. We had some really strong races and breakthroughs, and they really pushed their limits out there today. That's what this team is all about: fighting to the finish line with every bit of energy you have."
Stanley finished with the fastest swim among the Sun Devils (9:47) and the second-fastest among all competitors. Ernst's time of 31:31 for the bike accomplished both the fastest from ASU and in the entire field, while Roy used the run to kick things into over drive with a field-best time of 18:19.
The Sun Devils take one weekend off and are back in action on Sun., Sep. 15 at the West Regional Qualifier. Fans can keep up with the action all season-long by following @SunDevilTri on Twitter.