ANDREA NUNEZ-SMITH  is a USA Triathlon Certified Coach, elite triathlete, and lifelong endurance sports enthusiast. Originally from Austin, Texas, Andrea grew up as a competitive swimmer before competing in triathlon for the University of Arizona, where she also ran for the Wildcats’ NCAA Division I cross-country team. During her collegiate career, she raced in both regional and national triathlon events, establishing herself as a dedicated and versatile athlete.

After graduation, Andrea earned her professional triathlon license and has since competed primarily in 70.3 and Olympic-distance races across the country.

Her passion for coaching began early, at just 16, Andrea started coaching swim lessons and quickly discovered her love for helping others reach their goals. Over the past five years of coaching, and through her experience coaching under Natasha Van Der Merwe, she has guided athletes of all ages and experience levels - from complete beginners to elite competitors-across every discipline and distance.

It is very important to Andrea to not only get to know her athletes as athletes, but also as humans. She strives to help people find joy and lifestyle through sport—making it something they genuinely enjoy and want to pursue for years to come.

Athletic Achievements

• 1st Overall Female – 2024 IRONMAN 70.3 Waco

• USA Aquathlon National Champion

• 2nd Place – ITU Aquathlon Age Group World Championships

• Youngest Qualifier – IRONMAN 70.3 World Championships

• University of Arizona Triathlon & NCAA Division I Cross-Country Athlete

• Waco 70.3 Swim Course Record Holder

• Sub-3 Marathoner / Boston Marathon Qualifier

• Multiple wins across Utah, Arizona, and Texas

Coaching Highlights

• Coached multiple athletes to qualify for IRONMAN 70.3 and IRONMAN World Championships

• Guided athletes through their first triathlon—from Sprint and Olympic to IRONMAN distances

• Coached athletes to personal bests across all triathlon disciplines and running races

• Helped numerous athletes learn to swim and build confidence in open water

• Supported age-group podium finishers and first-time finishers alike