Syndicate Friday Features

Name: Aysegul Gozu, S.E.T. Race Team, Youth Team Parent

Where are you from and what activities did you do growing up?    

I am originally from Türkiye and grew up in Bursa, a city located next to Uludağ ("Big Mountain") and the Marmara Sea. I started skiing at a very young age, and my childhood was deeply connected to skiing. I became a competitive ski racer for Team DSI-Bursa. I went on to become a national champion and had the honor of representing Team Türkiye in international ski races. Growing up in a place with both mountains and the sea provided me with a unique environment that shaped my passion for sports and adventure.

What is your life like outside of endurance sports?    

Outside of endurance, my life is a dynamic mix of my career in medicine, family, and culinary creativity. As a physician, researcher, and educator, I enjoy medical research and clinical teaching. Beyond my professional life, I cherish time with my husband and three children, who keep me busy and bring joy to my days. Balancing a career, family, and volunteering is both rewarding and challenging, requiring patience and adaptability. In my free time, I find comfort and creativity in the kitchen, where I enjoy cooking traditional Turkish dishes and sourdough bread baking. 

Tell us about your endurance sport background; do you have a favorite discipline or event? 

I’ve been primarily competing in the Olympic-distance triathlon since 2017. Despite having no prior competitive experience in swimming, biking, or running, I’ve embraced the challenge of practicing and improving in all three disciplines. Over the years, I’ve had age group wins and qualifications for age group national championships. I represented TeamUSA at the World Triathlon Championship age-group finals in Spain in 2024 and will also compete in Wollongong, Australia, in 2025. What I love most about triathlon training is the sense of community—it’s incredibly rewarding to meet new people, train together, and build friendships along the way.

Which is your S.E.T. team affiliation; where did you hear about S.E.T., why did you decide to join?    

I am affiliated with the S.E.T. race team. It all started when my son joined the S.E.T. youth team three years ago. My son has really enjoyed the triathlon coaches and the sense of community that comes with the sport, much like I have. He has built wonderful friendships through training and competing, forming bonds with teammates and fellow athletes. I chose to join the adult team to help fulfill S.E.T.'s mission and enjoy my training with such friendly, fun, and wonderful athletes.

Most memorable 2024 endurance sport related (or other) experience?  

My favorite memory from 2024 was racing in the World Triathlon Championship finals in Spain with TeamUSA. It was an unforgettable experience, made even more special by the presence of close family and friends who traveled all the way to Spain just to support and cheer me on. Spending that week surrounded by their love and encouragement made the entire event truly memorable.

What are you most looking forward to in 2025?  

In 2025 I’m looking forward to the World Triathlon Championship finals in Australia with TeamUSA.