Swimming, cycling, and running to the finish line, Shantelle Tupaz (‘24) has been competing in triathlons since she was 7 years old. Growing up triathlons seemed to be a fun opportunity, simply because there was no reason not to. Now she has found ways to gain from the experience and take it to another level.

All registered triathlon racers are placed into a ranking system throughout the country. Tupaz has worked her way up to be one of the top 5 in the nation. Within the placements, the top 12 competitors receive the title of ‘All American.’ Anyone with the title can represent the United States in world triathlons against people from other countries around the world.

“Getting into the All American status has really shown me that my training is paying off…Finally seeing that I was good has shown that triathlon- or what I’m doing in triathlon should be making me proud,” said Tupaz. 

In one of her recent competitions, Tupaz participated in a national triathlon in Tempe, Arizona against kids aged 15 to 19 years old. Out of 40 total participants, she placed 3rd.

“Triathlon is a pretty good sport to anyone who wants to try it, even if you do minimal training they are still fun to do. The community is really nice and very supportive, and all in all it’s a nice sport,” said Tupaz.  

Through more training and competitions Tupaz has plans of traveling to participate in events all over the world. In the coming year she plans on going to two events in Bermuda and Abu Dhabi. Her future goal is to place in the top twenty at those world triathlons.

“I’m proud to have made it into the All American status and I can’t wait to race for team U.S.A. next year,” said Tupaz.