History was made on October 11, 2025, and it started at our pool!
Natalie Grabow, who turned 80 in August, became the first 80-year-old woman in U.S. history to complete the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii. Yes, the legendary 140.6-mile course of heat, wind, and grit.
Natalie crossed the finish line with a time of 16:45:26:
2.4-mile swim: 1:47:41
112-mile bike ride: 7:51:27
26.2-mile marathon: 6:40:11
And here’s what makes this even more special: Natalie trains right here at Lakeland Hills Family YMCA. Our pool is not just where champions are made; it’s where purpose meets perseverance. Where people of all ages and abilities come to achieve, relate, and belong. Natalie is proof that the journey never ends. And that greatness has no age limit. In the pool, on the track, on the ride.
Keep your eyes out for more, as Natalie is already being featured across news and media outlets nationwide. We’re so proud to be part of her story. 💙
#Ironman#NatalieGrabow#LHYFamily#YMCA#StrongerTogether#ActiveAging#Triathlon#Kona2025#Champion#ForABetterUNo
Global Soccer Excellence Meets Local Youth Empowerment: Juventus Academy × Lakeland Hills YMCA Announce Strategic Partnership
MOUNTAIN LAKES, NJ August 15, 2025, Lakeland Hills Family YMCA is proud to announce an exciting new partnership with Juventus Academy, one of the world’s most respected names in soccer. This collaboration will bring elite soccer training, inclusive mentorship, and values-based youth development to the local community, uniting global athletic prestige with the YMCA’s long-standing mission to strengthen communities.
A ceremonial contract signing will take place on Thursday, August 21, at 11:00 AM at Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, officially launching the partnership and laying the foundation for an impactful, community-first approach to youth sports. This groundbreaking initiative aims to expand access to high-level coaching and character development through a series of programs rooted in Juventus’ renowned soccer methodology and the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
Key Features of the Partnership:
• Professional instruction by Juventus Academy coaches
• Inclusive programming for youth across skill levels
• Monthly “Open Days” for families to meet coaches, participate in activities, and learn about enrollment starting this September
• A joint commitment to equity, access, and youth leadership
Media Event Details: Date: Thursday, August 21, 2025 Time: 11:00 AM Location: Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, 100 Fanny Road, Mountain Lakes, NJ 07046
Visual and Interview Opportunities Include:
• Formal contract signing between YMCA and Juventus Academy leadership
• Sneak peek at upcoming “Juventus Open Days” this fall
• Complimentary refreshments and promotional giveaways
This partnership underscores the power of collaboration between local and global institutions to create meaningful change at the community level. Together, Lakeland Hills YMCA and Juventus Academy are building a future where all young people have the opportunity to thrive, on the field and in life.
