Contact: Emily Zadny, Sports Information Graduate Assistant, 630-637-5302
 
WATAUGA, Tenn. (Sept. 16, 2018) – Battling against treacherous rainy conditions due to Hurricane Florence that cut the racing distances in half, the North Central College women's triathlon team showed their tenacity and talent at the USA Triathlon Central Region Qualifier, placing first among all Division III competitors.
 
The forecast forced some teams to withdraw from the race following the shortened 300-meter swim, but the Cardinals raced with care during bike stage, carefully navigating the six-mile course through the Smoky Mountains before powering through the final 1.5-mile run to the finish line.
 
Elizabeth Moore from Transylvannia University was the top finisher among the field, winning the race in 38:32.0. The Cardinals' own Naomi Hill was the second Division III athlete to cross the finish line and the first for North Central, completing the race with a time of 42:16.0. 
 
Jennifer Hufnagle placed third in the division with a time of 42:57.0 followed by Grace Miller (44:54.0) in fourth. Amy Feltz (53:54.0) and Amelia Woods (53:55.0) placed 10th and 11th, respectively in the division. 
 
The Cardinals' next race is the Tri the Illini Triathlon, hosted by the University of Illinois on Sept. 30. Race time is set for 8 a.m.