BABSON PARK, Fla. – The inaugural youth challenge and the 4th annual Scenic 17 Triathlon was a success.
On Sunday morning (July 31st) 20 children competitors opened the day with the Youth Challenge at 7:00 A.M. The children participated in a 100 meter swim, followed by a 3 mile bike ride, and finished with a ½ mile run.
Over 125 competitors took part in the 4th Annual Scenic 17 Triathlon hosted by Webber International University. With water temperature hovering in the upper 80's at race time and with muggy conditions from the count down, every competitor from the first timer to the grizzly veteran looked forward to the challenge that is, the Scenic 17 Triathlon. Participants tackled the ¼ mile swim, then proceeded to attack the challenging 15 mile bike along Scenic 17, and survive the 5k run along North Crooked Lake drive into the finish.
The men's champion, Zephyrhills resident Robert Kniss, with a time of 1:06:28 stands as the new course record. The men's masters championship went to John Hovius of Groveland who finished with a time of 1:09:36, which was good enough for second place overall.
Dawn Decaminada of Brandon took top honors for the second year on the women's side, with a time of 1:13:55. The women's masters championship went to Dory Dyess of Sumterville who finished with a time of 1:27:02.
The men's relay champion was team Jamaican Hopscotch consisting of Ian Ormsby, Justin Perking, and Jonathan Mott with a team time of 1:18:45.
The women's relay champion was team purple consisting of Merri Bass, Jeanie Croes, and Laurie Schoepe with a team time of 1:44:38.
“Today's race was the culmination of months of planning on several people's parts and to have the turnout that we had speaks volumes to everyone that has a hand in it,” said fourth year race director and head track and cross country coach Dr. Peter Ormsby said. “I had the opportunity to talk with several people post-event, with everyone enjoying the race and had nothing but praise for the course, the venue, and volunteers.”
The date for next year is going to be on Sunday, July 29, 2012. Any individuals or businesses that would be interested in sponsorship opportunities for next year's races are encouraged to call (863) 638-2952 or email scenic17triathlon@hotmail.com. We're also on Facebook, search Scenic 17 Triathlon.
Results are available at:
Race photos are available through Lakes Photography at:
