i-tri is a community-based program that promotes self-respect, personal empowerment, self-confidence, a positive body image, and healthy lifestyle choices for middle school-aged girls. To celebrate its 16th anniversary, i-tri is hosting a special “Sweet 16 Gala” at the LongHouse Reserve in East Hampton on Wednesday, June 18, from 6 PM to 9 PM.
The evening will feature live entertainment by Nora Conlon and will celebrate 16 seasons of empowerment, honoring 16 i-tri Luminaries who have contributed to the organization’s success over the years. The Luminaries include local community leaders such as former New York State Assemblyman Fred Thiele, Suffolk County Legislator Ann Welker, Kathleen King, former i-tri Athletic Director Sharon McCobb, Erin Tinlle, Tracy Kappenburg of Riverhead Building Supply, and others.
We asked i–tri’s Founder and Chief Visionary Officer, Theresa Roden, to answer a few questions about the foundation and the upcoming gala.
Can you describe the mission of i-tri?
i-tri is an inclusive, community-based program that fosters self-respect, personal empowerment, self-confidence, positive body image, and healthy lifestyle choices for adolescent girls. i-tri girls train physically, mentally, and emotionally to complete a youth-distance triathlon as a metaphor for life’s journey, giving them the opportunity and the tools to achieve seemingly impossible goals. Along their way to the finish line, i-tri girls develop strong habits and attitudes that last a lifetime. This program is always free of charge to every participant.
Why was triathlon training chosen as a way to help girls boost their self-esteem and grow their leadership skills?
Because triathlon is tough, no doubt about that! Many of our participants begin the program without knowing how to ride a bike or swim, and nearly everyone struggles with running. This challenge pushes them physically, mentally, and emotionally. But we know that by the time they cross the finish line, they will have strengthened their self-esteem, self-efficacy, and self-confidence, empowering them to truly believe in themselves.
What kind of transformation do you see in girls from the beginning of the program to race day?
Transformation is the heart of what we do. To give some context, 69% of girls enter elementary school feeling happy with who they are, but by high school, that number plummets to just 29%. Yet, at the core of our work, it always comes down to the impact we make on just one girl.
Last year, I kept noticing a girl at practices and empowerment sessions—always serious, never quite at ease in her own skin. Week after week, our dedicated program team, trained in Trauma-Informed Care and Coaching, helped her gain confidence on the bike and in the pool. I watched her journey unfold throughout the season, and on race day, I saw her cross the finish line. I rushed to her, asked how she felt, and she simply said, “I feel happy.”
I broke into tears. Later, her mother told me that I couldn’t possibly understand how much this program had meant to her daughter — and to their entire family.
What can guests expect at the upcoming Sweet 16 Gala?
We are celebrating with a Hamptons Gala like no other! On Wednesday, June 18, join us at Longhouse to celebrate our 16th season. Upon arrival, guests will be greeted by the i-tri girls themselves and led throughout the spectacular grounds on an interactive i-tri Journey, stopping to participate in four different i-tri Experiences, led by the alums and staff. (Don’t worry — no swimming, biking, or running involved.)
The Journey leads to the great lawn of de Kooning Place, where the festivities will continue under the tent and outdoor lounge area. Enjoy delicious food by Silver Spoon Caterers, Channing Daughters Wine, and Springs Brewery brews with fellow supporters of i-tri. There will be a Silent Auction, Local Female Artists – Art Auction, and a Chance Auction as well!
Our own Nora Conlon will perform. We’ll recognize 16 i-tri Luminaries who have been instrumental in the success of i-tri over the years. We’ll raise some money, raise our glasses, and then dance the night away! This, our very first Gala, will be a night to remember as we mark i-tri’s 16th year of empowering adolescent girls through triathlons. Don’t miss out on this special evening!
What are your goals for the future of i-tri?
Our official name is Inspirational Triathlon Racing International. While we don’t currently have plans to expand internationally, we are working on a pilot program in the Bronx for 2026, so stay tuned. In the meantime, this year’s 200+ girls are getting closer and closer to our Hamptons Youth Triathlon in July. If you have never witnessed it, please come down to cheer them on at Long Beach in Sag Harbor on Saturday, July 12.