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This year we had a woman, 9 months pregnant, participate in the 14th Annual CRDA Atlantic City Triathlon. Her perseverance and determination are second to none. It's athletes like Maggie, who show us that the athletes who participate in our events are capable of anything if they #DoTheWork!
1. Tell us 3 things we should know about you.
A: 1.) This is my first pregnancy, little Sonja Brielle Salvatore
2.) I advocate for everyone to care for their mental health. Right now focusing on women experiencing prenatal/postpartum depression, it’s real.
3.) I’m nervous for this next journey. Growing up my mom did it all (parenting, a career, PTA, church, continuing education). I hope I can accomplish half of all she did. She’s my real life superwoman.
2. When and how did you begin your triathlon journey?
A: I began my triathlon journey in 2021. I had broken up with my boyfriend at the time, who I had been training with, before TRI AC. He told me I should drop out because I “wasn’t even good at triathlons” and they were “his thing”. I then got first in my age group! It was my "Elle Woods" moment.
3. What do you love most about triathlon?
A: I love the opportunity to see hard work pay off. To prove to myself what I can do and see what the outcome of discipline and dedication is.
4. What made you sign up for TRI AC? Have you participated in any other DelMo events?
A: TRI AC is my favorite! I figured this would be my last athletic event before giving birth! I’ve done TRI AC before and Escape the Cape. DelMo events are really so special but not just because of the course. It’s the employees and volunteers who make the experience. They're the best in the industry.
5. What motivated you to race 9 months pregnant?
A: I did absolutely nothing the first 23 weeks of this pregnancy. I had recurring kidney issues and was exhausted/sick all day. It was all I could do to get my dog on the beach for a walk. Then I got laid off in April which didn’t help morale. So the moment I was able to get back in the gym and move, I knew I never wanted to take a single second of feeling good/healthy/strong for granted.
6. What is one piece of advice you have for anyone looking to get involved in triathlon?
A: Give it an honest try! It’s a great opportunity to work on and compete with yourself, introduce structure, and implement daily discipline.
7. What is your race mantra?
A: Don't stop, don't fall, people are watching!
8. What is your favorite race memory?
A: You have to be able to laugh at yourself. So, my favorite race memory now is the fact that I started the '24 TRI AC with Black tar (from racking my bike) smeared all over my chin and NO ONE said anything to me. I walked around looking like a pregnant Brendan Frazier with a 5 o’clock shadow and didn’t realize till I saw my race photos! Do you know how many people I talked to before the swim started?!
We could not be happier to see athletes like Maggie thrive! Best of luck, and congratulations to her and her new baby!!
