Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
Editor, Times-Union:
Dear Winona Lake and Warsaw Communities,
Wow, what an incredible weekend!
On behalf of the Warsaw Breakfast Optimist Club and the entire team behind the Optimist Triathlon, we want to extend our deepest, most sincere gratitude to everyone who made the 2026 event an absolute roaring success.
This year was officially one for the record books — we enjoyed a massive 30% spike in athlete registrations! Watching hundreds of triathletes push their limits, smash personal goals, and fill our community with such vibrant energy was nothing short of inspiring.
An event of this scale truly takes a village, and we have a few vital thank-yous to share:
To our amazing participants: Thank you for your energy, your passion, and for choosing our race. You brought the heart and soul to the course.
To our incredible sponsors: Your generous support keeps this tradition alive and allows us to continue investing back into local youth programs. We could not do this without you.
To the Winona Lake community: We want to extend a huge thank you for your incredible patience and hospitality. We know that road closures, extra traffic, and a bustling town can disrupt your weekend routine. Your grace, cheers, and warm welcome to these athletes did not go unnoticed. You are the ultimate hosts!
We are still riding the high of this weekend's success, but we are already looking ahead! If you missed out on the action this year — or if you're already itching to beat your 2026 time — we have great news.
Registration is officially OPEN for the 2027 Optimist Triathlon! Mark your calendars for June 26, 2027, and secure your spot early to be part of the magic next summer.
Thank you all for making our community such a wonderful place to live, race, and give back. See you on the course next year!
With immense gratitude,
The Warsaw Breakfast Optimist Club
& The Optimist Triathlon Committee
Jeff Owens, Co-chair
Warsaw, via email
