Updated date: Triathlon pioneer Sally Edwards hosting local training parties

Area athletes and prospective athletes will have opportunities to gather triathlon training and racing wisdom from Sally Edwards, one of the country's multisport pioneers.

Most triathlon newcomers, particularly women, would recognize Edwards as the Chief Inspiration Officer for the Danskin and Trek Women's events around the country.

Before she took on the role of cheerleader, Edwards set the standard for women as a founder and competitor. She placed second in her first Ironman Hawaii Championship, in 1981; and she was one of the first athletes inducted into the Triathlon Hall of Fame, established in 1998.

Add a Western States Trail Run championship to her list of accomplishments, and the 23 books she authored on endurance sports, and Edwards has unmatched credentials to serve as a guide for beginners and experts.

Sally Edwards

"My role is to demystify what it takes for women to participate in this type of activity, give them a plan to accomplish it, and then encourage them to exceed their own expectations," Edwards said.

She will leada training party Friday night at the Wheel & Sprocket Bike Expo at State Fair Park, starting at 7 p.m.

The training session is focused on the Trek Women's and Danskin Triathlon events, but are free and open to the public.

On May 13, Edwards will be back in Milwaukee for a book promotion at the InStep Running & Walking center, 403 E. Buffalo St., at 6 p.m. and 7:30. Space is limited to 50 people at each session. Reserve a spot by calling InStep at 414-220-4160.