Jenna Topott is a freshman on the Denver Pioneers triathlon team from Allen, Texas.
 
She made her collegiate debut on Aug. 30 at the Southern Hills Triathlon super sprint in Hot Springs, South Dakota, and she posted the first podium of the season for the Pioneers by winning her wave and placing third overall on Oct. 4 at the Prairie State Cup in DeWitt, Illinois.
 
Topott came to Denver after racing for Playtri club in Texas and was the team's junior elite captain from 2023-2025. She recorded two top-20 results at the U.S. Junior Nationals over the past two years, placing 16th in 2024 and 14th in 2025.
 
Having earned varsity letters in cross country, track and swimming at Allen High School, Topott was also recognized on the school's academic honor roll.
 
She aims to pursue a career in the health field and in competitive triathlon after her time at Denver.
 
Why did you choose the University of Denver?
 
"I chose the University of Denver because I knew it would help me thrive in both my athletic and academic goals. The triathlon team at DU was incredibly welcoming. I felt very comfortable with the coaches and athletes, which gave me confidence that it would be a great fit. Additionally, the campus is beautiful and has a great atmosphere.
 
Why Triathlon?
 
"I love triathlon because it challenges me in different ways. Combining swimming, cycling and running keeps things interesting and helps me improving in all areas. This sport, as it is physical, also challenges me mentally."
 
Do you remember your first race?
 
"My parents used to compete in triathlons. When they discovered there were kid triathlons, they were excited to get me involved too. I always enjoyed biking and running when I was young, but swimming was my biggest challenge. However when I jumped into the pool for the first time in that race, I knew triathlon was the sport for me."
 
What is your goal for this season?        
 
"My goal for this season is to improve my overall performance, particularly in the swim. I want to be a pillar of support and positivity for my teammates."
 
What are your plans for the future?
 
"I want to build a career in the biomedical field while also continuing to pursue triathlon for the long-term."
 
Where is your favorite training area?
 
"Dallas, Texas, but not in the summer."
 
What kind of music do you like?          
 
"Indie Pop. I love Lana Del Rey."
 
Do you have a favorite quote or mantra?
 
"You can only have one thought at a time, make it a good/positive one." - Anonymous
 
What are your favorite movies and TV shows?
 
"I love The Office, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Stranger Things, Suits and The Great British Baking Show. Some of my favorite movies are the Marvel series—especially Ironman—Despicable Me, and The Pink Panther."
 
What is your favorite sport to watch?
 
"Hockey—but table tennis comes in a close second."
 
Do you have a pre-race routine?          
 
"I always have a peanut butter and jelly sandwich beforehand. Then I arrive really early to the race site to begin a trainer ride (sometimes on the course). After that, I do a quick warmup run before heading to the swim start. Just before the race start, I eat three power gummies and some pretzels followed with a sip of water."
 
What is something that other people might not know about you?
 
"I am a Texan who can ski and ice skate."
 
What other sports have you participated in?
 
"Swimming, cross country, track, soccer and volleyball."
 
Are you a member of any Tri, Run, Bike or Swim Club?
 
"I have been with the Playtri Elite Triathlon program for seven years now under the guidance of the head coach, Coach Morgan. Playtri started as a local triathlon team, but it soon expanded allowing for distance athletes to join as well. Their program is all-inclusive, providing swim, bike, run, conditioning, and transition training."