Men's Cross Country

Treadwell Named To Team USA Duathlon Team

ONEONTA, N.Y. - Hartwick College cross country coach Dereck Treadwell has already represented the United States once before in running. The fourth-year head coach for the Hawks will get another chance to wear the Red, White and Blue, but this time in a completely different sport.

Treadwell, who grew up outside of Old Town, Maine, earned a spot on Team USA for the upcoming Duathlon World Championships, which will be held on August 10 in Geel, Belgium. The team is comprised of six members, three males and three females.

"It will be very cool to put the USA uniform on," said Treadwell. "Our names will be on the front of the uniform right under USA. Not only will it be a complete honor to represent the United States, but it will be an honor riding with my name on the jersey and represent the family name."

Treadwell will head over to Belgium on August 6th to prepare for the challenging run-bike-run format that looms ahead of him. The first portion of the race is a 17k run, followed by an 80k bike ride and ends with an 8.5k run. Over 50 countries are expected to have entries in the event.

"Individually, my goal is to finish in the top five," said Treadwell. "Don't get me wrong, it will be tough, but it's not unrealistic."

Treadwell was named to the team based on his performances over the past year. He won the national title in the Fall at the Powerman Ohio Duathlon outside of Cincinnati. In the Spring, he broke the run course record at the Columbia Triathlon in Colombia, Md., en route to a 10th-place effort in the pro division. Most recently, Treadwell placed fourth at one of the largest events in the Northeast, the Mooseman Half-Iron Man in Bristol, N.H.

He has two more definite appearances before the world championships and might make it three. Treadwell is slated to compete in the Philadelphia Triathlon this Sunday and then the Rhode Island Half Iron Man on July 20th. There might be time for an additional smaller race in the region as well.

His training schedule is rigorous to say the least. On average, Treadwell figures he cycles 200-250 miles per week; runs 70 miles or so per week and trains three to four hours in the swimming pool.

All of this couldn't have happened without the support of several people who have made this become a reality. Ommegang Brewery; Mavic Wheels and Felt Bicycles have each played a major part in this dream becoming a reality.

"Ommegang has been by my side for two years and I greatly appreciate their support," said Treadwell. "Mavic Wheels and Chris Tomaselli, the Northeast Regional Representative of Felt Bikes have been very supportive as well."