Why Triathlon? Why Now?Inside Tampa Bay’s Most Empowering Women’s Triathlon Community
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Empowering women, one badass
mile at a time.
There’s something electric about showing up for yourself.
For thousands of women across the country—and hundreds right here in Tampa Bay—triathlon has become more than just a sport. It’s a transformation. A reminder of what your body can do, what your mind can endure, and what happens when women race alongside women.
That’s the spirit behind Team BABE Athletics, led by coach Coral Owen. Founded in 2019 with just 15 women, Team BABE (short for “Be A Badass Every Day”) has grown into a powerhouse community of over 600 women strong in 2025. And it’s not just about finish lines. It’s about finding joy in the process, showing up for each other, and creating space where every woman belongs—whether it’s her first 5K or her third IRONMAN.
Team BABE welcomes women of all ages, backgrounds, and ability levels to tap into a vibrant, no-pressure environment with weekly training meetups, coaching support, beginner-friendly clinics, and an annual all-women's sprint triathlon—presented this year by the incredible team at Scarborough Bicycle Accident Law.
Whether you're curious about racing, eager for community, or ready to reignite your inner athlete, this team might be the spark you've been looking for.
The Origin of a Movement
The idea for Team BABE was born when Coral, working as a triathlon brand ambassador, realized that many amazing women were being overlooked by the mainstream racing world. They weren’t "fast enough," didn’t have big social followings, or didn’t fit the stereotypical mold of an endurance athlete.
That didn’t sit right. So Coral built a space that would celebrate all women—exactly as they are. From just a handful of members, Team BABE has now blossomed into a thriving, supportive community that extends far beyond the start line.
Why Triathlon?
Because it's more than sport. It’s a gateway to confidence, friendship, and doing hard things in the company of other women who just get it.
As Coral puts it, “Triathlon changed my perspective about what was possible.
And now I get to help other women experience that same transformation.”
Whether you're stepping into your first race or coming back after a life chapter—motherhood, career pivots, injury—Team BABE makes the journey accessible and empowering. You don’t need fancy gear or to be fast. You just need the willingness to show up.
What Makes Team BABE Different
It’s not just the cheering, the group rides, or the pre-race nerves (and hugs). It’s the culture. Built on authenticity, flexibility, and connection, Team BABE is a women-only space where you’re supported from day one.
Membership is free—yes, really. You can opt into one-on-one coaching, jump into group training, or follow a stock plan that fits your schedule. And you’ll always find encouragement in the Facebook group, in your inbox, and at the beach on a Saturday morning ride.
From beach swims to sunrise bricks to post-run coffee, it’s not just training—it’s community.
The BABES Triathlon: Fort De Soto’s Signature All-Women Sprint
On June 22, more than 350 women gathered at Fort De Soto Park for the Tampa Bay BABES Triathlon. For many, it was their first race. For others, their fiftieth. The starting line was filled with moms, students, retirees, brand-new triathletes, and lifelong athletes—all showing up for themselves and each other.
With no tall buildings or distractions, Fort De Soto offers pure “wild Florida” energy—and its coastal winds mean every bike ride is a fresh challenge. Coral, who serves as race director, says the venue’s beauty and history make it unforgettable.
“This isn’t just a race. It’s the heartbeat of the team.”
Athlete Highlights
Team BABE athletes are redefining what it means to be strong, resilient, and joyful in their training. Here are just a few stories that show what’s possible:
Jen G. joined Team BABE in 2019 with a goal to complete her first full IRONMAN while working full-time as an attorney. We kept training sustainable and fun—and she crushed IRONMAN Florida, finishing in the top 10 in her age group. Even more inspiring? She returned to racing after pregnancy and completed IRONMAN Alaska one year postpartum. Talk about badass.
Barb K. is a grandmother, lifelong go-getter, and triathlon force of nature. She’s raced multiple half IRONMANs and even attempted a full IRONMAN—in her 60s. Now in her early 70s, she’s training for the Hotter n' Hell 100-mile bike ride. Her reflections on the sport, and the joy she brings to it, are proof that endurance has no age limit.
Asia C. entered the sport in fall 2023 with a dream of racing her first sprint triathlon. Her energy is magnetic—she’s brought friends into the sport, volunteers in her community, and even qualified for the aquabike world championships. Representing Team USA? You bet. She’s joy and grit in motion.
What Training Looks Like
There’s no one-size-fits-all here. Coral builds plans that are intentional, progressive, sustainable, and flexible. That means every workout has a purpose. Progress builds over time. Life’s priorities—kids, work, travel—get honored. And when life throws a curveball? We pivot without guilt.
It’s about making this sport work for you.
So, What’s Next?
The momentum around Team BABE is just beginning. With 600+ members strong and counting, the mission remains the same: keep the vibe supportive, inclusive, and fun.
Planning is already underway for the 2026 BABES Triathlon—mark your calendar for June 28. Coral’s also personally training for her first half IRONMAN since becoming a mom, alongside nearly 20 BABEs at the Haines City 70.3 in December.
“This community has changed what I believe is possible—for myself and for the
women I coach,” she says. “To help others find that same power through sport
is a joy and an honor.”
