In June of 2012, Sharon Byun, M.D. took part in her first triathlon in Crystal River.  Her 1^st place finish in the Novice division would be a preview to her future in the sport.  She quickly learned the pitfalls of trying to put a dry T-shirt on a wet body in T1 and the value of a fast bike split.

Sharon completed her first half marathon a few months earlier and at the behest of her friend Pippin, they entered the triathlon for a new challenge.  She was hooked instantly.  Prior to participating, Sharon joined G3.  Her first G3 event was a brick workout.  Sharon arrived with a 15-year old mountain bike and quickly realized she was in need of a road bike.

Growing up in Philadelphia, Sharon participated in multiple sports.  She ran her first 10K when she was 11 and ran cross-country in high school.  She also was a high school swimmer, where she was mostly involved in sprint freestyle events.

Not only does Sharon swim, bike, and run, but as an OB/GYN she considers delivering babies, seeing patients in the office, and performing operations her “work triathlon.”  She loves her job, but admits that sometimes “I feel like work gets in the way of my workouts.”

Sharon lists the Crystal River Sprint Series as her favorite race and notes that they will always hold a special place in her heart.

In 2014, Sharon participated in the USA Triathlon Sprint Distance National Championship in Milwaukee.  This was an emotional race.  Her dad was diagnosed with metastatic cancer shortly before the race.  She dedicated the race to him.  She raced to a 1:19:32 finish.  Her father died 12 days later with Sharon at his side.  Despite racing with a heavy heart, it was a memorable race and she loved sharing the weekend with the 8 other G3 members who also made the trip.

Sharon lists the feeling of complete and utter exhaustion as she is pushing to the finish line that immediately transitions (T3) to pure bliss as her favorite part of a triathlon.  Her least favorite part is flat tires.

Sharon had a season to remember in 2015.  She finished in 1^st place in her age group in every race she entered.  Her best accomplishment was winning the overall Female Masters St. Anthony’s Sprint.  She was ranked 221/1903 of all 45 to 49 year old women, narrowly missing out on being named a USA Triathlon All-American (top 10%).

Sharon would advise triathletes to hire a coach and attributes her increasing speed with age to her coach, Karyn Austin.  She also advises newcomers to join a club for the camaraderie and support they provide.  She also advises to always thank your loved ones for their support, as she knows she couldn’t live the multisport lifestyle without a supportive family.

With the support of her husband and 9 year old son by her side, Sharon hopes to continue on this multisport journey and one day be named an All-American.