The triathletes who will represent the CNMI in the upcoming Pacific Mini Games in Palau are Terra Allen, Shawna Brennfleck, Nagi Tenorio (not in photo), Michael Miller, Takeru Jim, and Colin Ramsey.
TRAC photo
(Triathlon Association of the CNMI) — The Commonwealth’s top triathletes are gearing up to make waves on an international level as the TRAC proudly announces its delegation for the 2025 Pacific Mini Games, set to take place this summer in Palau from June 28 to July 10.
To determine the top athletes, the TRAC hosted three qualifying races on Feb. 22, March 15, and April 5. Off-island residents were also given the opportunity to participate by submitting times from a recognized race held during the same period, allowing them a chance to qualify and compete in the upcoming summer games. TRAC board member Denise Meyers explained the process, stating, “We wanted to be as transparent as possible. The triathlon is one of the sports where the selection process is quite simple: sign up for a qualifying race, compete, and if your time is among the top three from all qualifiers, you earn the opportunity to represent the CNMI.”
Six standout athletes — three women and three men — have been selected to represent the CNMI in what promises to be an exciting and competitive event. These athletes have demonstrated exceptional endurance, discipline, and determination through rigorous training and outstanding performances in their respective races.
The women’s team is comprised of Shawna Brennfleck, Nagi Tenorio, and Terra Allen — each bringing a unique strength and experience to the team. Brennfleck, a seasoned competitor, has been a consistent podium finisher at numerous triathlons in the past. Tenorio, known for her prowess in the water as a competitive swimmer, has rapidly risen through the ranks and is the youngest female competitor. No stranger to triathlons, Allen has spent recent seasons focusing primarily on running — where she’s made impressive strides. Now returning to the triathlon scene, she’s continued to build momentum throughout the season and is aiming to deliver her strongest performance yet.
On the men’s side, Michael Miller, Takeru Jim, and Colin Ramsey will proudly don the Commonwealth’s colors. Miller and Jim have consistently excelled as high school standouts, frequently finishing at the top in swim meets and dominating in cross country and track and field events. They have demonstrated a strong foundation as they improve with each race. Ramsey, one of the CNMI’s premier tennis talents, made a bold pivot this year. With tennis absent from the Games, he embraced the challenge of triathlon — turning what began as a detour into what now looks like the beginning of an exciting new athletic journey.
The triathlon races during the Mini Games are scheduled for this July 7- 9, and expected to attract top talent from across the Pacific, offering athletes the chance to compete, connect, and celebrate sport in a spirit of unity and excellence. The triathlon event will challenge athletes with a 750-meter open-water swim, a technical 20-kilometer bike leg, and a grueling 5k run under the Palauan sun — a true test of endurance, intestinal fortitude and strategy.
Association President Robyn Spaeth shared the following statement, “The CNMI hasn’t had triathlon events in a few years. When we decided to resurrect TRAC, our goals were to send a full team to Palau and looking ahead to increase events and participation for the future. In the past three qualifiers we also had youth level triathlons to help spread the love of the sport.”
When asked if there are any future events before the games, Spaeth replied, “Our upcoming sprint triathlon on June 7th will be focused on teams. If you can’t do all three phases, put together a team and TRI-IT! We will have shirts included with registration and all proceeds will go towards financial support of the organization which aims to help offset travel costs of our athletes.” To register for this event, go to: https://raceroster.com/events/2026/104941/just-tri-it-sprint-triathlon-fundraiser
As the countdown begins, the team is undergoing final preparations ready to represent our islands. If you would like more information on how you can get involved or help support our CNMI athletes please contact triathloncnmi@gmail.com and be sure to get updates on their Facebook page, Triathlon CNMI, as the games approach.
