Bio
Gwen Jorgensen is a professional triathlete from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. After swimming and running at the University of Wisconsin, Gwen qualified for the 2012 Olympics in only her 2nd year racing triathlons. She also likes to read, eat sushi, and hang out with friends and family.
Gwen was a member of the track & field, cross country and swimming teams at Wisconsin. She swam for three years in college before switching to track on a full-time basis. She earned All-American honors in both track and cross country. She is also a three-time NCAA Championship participant in track and two-time cross country participant.
As a standout runner and swimmer, Gwen turned to triathlon after being identified by USAT’s Collegiate Recruitment Program. In her first competitive triathlon she earned her elite card with an eighth-place finish (second amateur) at USAT’s Elite Development Race in March 2010 in Clermont, FL..
Currently she is a member of the USA Triathlon National Team. She been ranked as high as 16th overall and the No. 2 American in the 2012 ITU World Triathlon Series rankings. Gwen qualified for the 2012 Olympic Games to represent the United States in London.
Q & A
-
When did you first start training in life? Where and why?
I started swimming at the age of 8. I didn’t start running competitively until college. I started Triathlon after graduating college.
-
One sport wasn’t enough? What got you into the multi-sport arena?
I thought the same thing! Until USAT gave me an offer I couldn’t refuse.
-
When did you turn pro?
After my first race - March 2010
-
What are the events, wins, memories that stand out most throughout your career so far?
Laura Bennett encouraging me on my run to 2nd place at the London 2011 WTS event.
-
If you had a discipline that needed work, which would it be and why?
Swimming, biking, running, transitions, and recovery-I think there is always room for improvement!
-
Your favorite distance?
Olympic or shorter
-
Preferred race day outfit …
Hincapie swimsuit with my Specialized Bike and Oakley Radars.
-
If there is one thing that people in the industry would recognize you by, what would that be?
Can we take a twitter poll on this one?
-
Who was your inspiration growing up?
Mom and Dad
-
What has driven you to work super hard and rise up beyond mediocrity?
My parents lead by example. They are hard-working, dedicated individuals that I look up to daily.
-
What is your favorite course?
Every course is new to me, which I love. Ask me again in two years and hopefully then I’ll be able to give you my favorite course.
-
Finish this sentence: “Oakley is ________”
the only company that provides sunglasses that I feel comfortable wearing. I used to hate eye protection because I found it uncomfortable, now I don’t leave home without my Oakleys!
-
If you weren’t killing it in the tri scene, what would you be doing for a living?
Working at Ernst & Young as a CPA, Tax Accountant.
-
What is a hidden talent you have other than your sport?
I started playing the violin at age five.
-
What is the best song to practice to?
I don’t have an iPod….
-
People would be super surprised if they knew that you…
don’t have a TV or Ipod.
-
Perfect date…
Any day with Patrick Lemieux
-
Celebrity look-alike:
…twitter poll?
-
Celebrity crush:
Is Patrick Lemieux famous enough for you? … He is a pro cyclist ☺
-
Your Favorite…
Food: Anything Patrick Lemieux makes me….which usually includes the best bowl of oatmeal ever, a yogurt parfait, pasta, egg burrito or a salad
Vacation Spot: Hungary
Airline: Any one without a bike bag fee…..
Candy:Dark Chocolate or ice cream
Sport (Besides your own): BMXl
Holiday: Thanksgiving
Music Genre: Country
Movie: Comedy
Animal: Monkey
-
One word Association:
Swim: First love
Bike: Pedal
Run: Faster
Fun: Friends
Victory: Success
Defeat: Try again
Friend:Love
Change Country