Each August, hundreds of athletes gather at Weaver Lake Park for the Maple Grove Triathlon, one of the community’s favorite wellness traditions. Among the colorful swim caps, gleaming bikes, and cheering families, one Maple Grove name stands out: Ben Myers, a husband, father, and multi-year age group champion.
What began as a personal challenge years ago has grown into a family lifestyle. Today, the Myers family—Ben, his wife Karen, and their two boys—model what wellness looks like when it is lived together.
A Journey Sparked by Curiosity and a $200 Bike
Ben did not grow up a swimmer or cyclist. Basketball was his main sport, and during college he played intramurals and ran his first half marathon. Endurance sports took hold when he and Karen moved to the Bay Area.
Living near Mt. Diablo, Ben often saw cyclists climbing the steep roads. One weekend, he decided to try it. With a $200 road bike, basketball shorts, a T-shirt, and a granola bar tucked into his helmet, he attempted the 12.4-mile climb with nearly 4,000 feet of elevation.
“It’s a minor miracle I made it down,” he says.
That first leap led to joining a triathlon club, completing sprint and Olympic-distance races, and eventually tackling 70.3 events. (A “70.3” is an IRONMAN half-distance race: a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile bike, and a 13.1-mile run.)
Why Maple Grove? A Race That Feels Like Home
After moving to Minnesota, Ben discovered the Maple Grove Triathlon and immediately felt connected. It has become his “A” race each year and a tradition the whole family looks forward to.
Ben trains with a close-knit group of friends who also treat Maple Grove as their end-of-summer goal. “They keep getting faster every year,” he says. “It motivates me to keep up.”
Training brings friendships, perspective, and stress relief. “Each time I ride or run, I’m grateful for the time, health, and family support to do it.”
The Support Behind the Scenes
Triathlon training requires early mornings and balancing three sports. Karen plays a key role in keeping their household running smoothly.
“Ben wakes up early on Saturdays to run, cycle, or swim,” she says. “I cover the family things so he can train. He is great about prioritizing us, even with the demands of the sport.”
His consistency inspires her. “He did not grow up swimming, so watching him join masters swim classes, often at dawn, has been incredibly motivating.”
She admires his outlook most. “Ben is balanced. He works hard but listens to his body. His goal is lifelong strength and health.”
A Family That Moves Together
Wellness is part of everyday life for the Myers. They walk their dog, take family bike rides, and spend time at Weaver Lake Park, where the boys play tennis or pickleball. Karen lifts weights and loves walking. Both boys swim. Jacob (10) also plays basketball, while Daniel (6) plays tennis.
Each August, the boys compete in the YMCA of the North’s Kids Triathlon at Elm Creek Park Reserve. Daniel races in the Splash and Dash, and Jacob completes the full kids triathlon.
“Everybody can move their body,” Karen says. “Find what works for you and stick to it.”
Pride, Progress, and Community Inspiration
As each Maple Grove race approaches, Karen feels deep pride. “I have been cheering for Ben for more than ten years,” she says. “It is amazing watching him grow from nervous and inexperienced to confident and comfortable.”
She is also inspired by the race-day atmosphere. “Young, old, fast, slow, they are all incredible. I almost feel inspired to do a triathlon myself… almost.”
A Message for Anyone Beginning Their Wellness Journey
The Myers family hopes their example encourages others.
“You do not need to be perfect,” Ben says. “Just start. Find something joyful that helps you move. And be grateful for the chance to do it.”
Their story is a reminder that wellness grows through consistency, community, and shared joy, one ride, one run, and one family tradition at a time.
Mark your calendars:
August 21st & 22nd, 2026!
- The 2026 Maple Grove Triathlon has once again been selected as the official USA
Triathlon State Championships
- It is a USA Triathlon Age Group National Championship Qualifier
- Let’s #RaceLocal at Weaver Lake Park!
www.maplegrovetri.com