Today we’d like to introduce you to Sarah Elizabeth Johnson Segrest.
Hi Sarah Elizabeth, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
While I’m a relative newcomer to the triathlon scene, having just started competing this year, the initial spark came from a desire to test my physical limits and discover my true capabilities. However, if I’m being completely honest, there was a deeper, more personal motivation. For a long time, I prioritized the needs of others, sometimes to the point where I didn’t establish healthy boundaries. While caring for others is important, I reached a point where I felt a need to reclaim my self-respect and prevent others from taking my kindness for granted. I believe this resonates with many who are drawn to endurance sports – that element of overcoming personal challenges and proving their resilience.
A significant influence that helped me leap into triathlon training was joining the Ampersand Run Club after moving to the area in September 2024. It was a fantastic way to connect with people in a new place. However, their regular 3-mile runs on Mondays and Thursdays were initially challenging – I couldn’t even finish the whole distance.
That being said, my turning point, the moment that truly helped me bridge that gap and progress so quickly, came in January 2025. A friend and I went for a run at Trinity Trail, taking it at a very slow pace. He provided invaluable feedback on my foot strike and overall running form. That single run made a monumental difference. It was pivotal in my progress. While I likely would have eventually been able to run 3 miles comfortably, his guidance significantly accelerated my development and, honestly, probably played a significant role in my even considering triathlons. Since that run, and remarkably all before May 2025, I’ve completed a 10k race, two half marathons, a full marathon, two short triathlons, and an Ironman 70.3.
I’m incredibly grateful for that early support. Considering how new I am to the sport, I’m really pleased with my progress. In my first two races, I finished in the top 35% of women and even secured podium finishes. That success was surprising and earned me a spot at the USA Triathlon National Championship in Milwaukee this August 2025.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The journey into triathlons has definitely not been smooth. Even before I started training, I faced skepticism from friends who doubted my ability to even attempt such a demanding sport. Overcoming this initial mental barrier, proving to myself that I was capable despite their doubts, was the first hurdle.
Beyond that, the sheer demands of triathlon training presented constant obstacles. It’s not just one sport; it’s three demanding disciplines that require a significant time commitment. This often meant missing out on social events, as my training schedule took priority. A lot of the training is solitary, even when you have fellow triathletes, because everyone follows a personalized plan. I also had to learn to adjust my approach during group workouts, like run club, accepting that I couldn’t always push myself to the limit due to my specific training goals for that day. Letting go of the need to constantly perform and being okay with others potentially misinterpreting my efforts was a challenge for my competitive nature.
A significant setback was an injury that sidelined me for two and a half weeks after my first marathon. The mental struggle of resting and not training while seeing others progress was tough.
Leading up to the Ironman 70.3 Texas, I spent a lot of time mentally preparing for the physical demands ahead, aiming to finish the race without injury early in the season. After the race, while some people congratulated me, some conversations with others revealed a lack of understanding about the extensive and multifaceted training involved in triathlons. They often saw only the accomplishment of finishing a half Ironman. They thought it was something achievable in just a few months or that they could jump into a similar event with minimal preparation just because I did the distance. Even with all my training, I felt a sense of being underprepared going into the race. People need to understand the significant daily time investment required for this level of competition across three disciplines and the mental fortitude to endure hours of solitary training and racing without distractions like headphones.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Outside of competing in triathlons, I spend my time as a mentor at the University of Tennessee, where I help both undergraduate and graduate students with mock interviews and resume training sessions. I also volunteer through the Alzheimer’s Association, and the philanthropy I support is amfAR, which is dedicated to ending the global AIDS epidemic through innovative research.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
Before I acknowledge the incredible support of my coaches, family, and friends, I must first give all credit to Jesus. Every night, I thank Him for bringing me to this point and for blessing me with a healthy body that allows me to pursue these achievements. I truly believe that my rapid progress and where I stand today directly result from remaining humble throughout this journey. Reflecting on where I was just last year in my fitness and considering everything I’ve overcome in my personal life, I know that I wouldn’t be where I am now without God’s grace.
Beyond my faith, my coaches have been instrumental in this journey. They’ve supported my ambitions every step of the way, guiding me through countless workouts and training sessions. Without their expertise, navigating the world of triathlons would have been an overwhelming task. Finally, I’m deeply grateful for my family and closest friends, who have been my biggest cheerleaders. Their support has meant the world to me, and I’m incredibly thankful for each one of them.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Bike Photos: LGM Photos (Sheldon)
Run Photo: Dream Street Photography (Jacob)
Portraits: Portraits by Dann (Danny)
