BARRY’S BAY – Athletes of all ages gathered at the lakeshore in Barry’s Bay to be a part of the 21st annual triathlon and duathlon on June 30.
The weather was perfect for swim that morning. So, like previous years, triathlon participants plunged into the crisp Kamaniskeg waters to begin the race. Dozens of boaters patrolled the waters as the 89 participants made their way around two buoys and back to shore. Organizers and volunteers of the event confirm there was record turnout this year.
First out of the water was David Markin of Ottawa. He was followed closely by Ottawa’s Rick Hellard. Markin unfortunately lost his lead during the 32 kilometre bike ride. He came in 13 place overall.
However, Hellard maintained his position throughout the race and came out victorious. He completed the 750 metre swim in 12 minutes, eight seconds, the bike ride in 52 minutes, nine seconds and the eight-kilometre run in 30 minutes, 55 seconds.
Kevin Willis of Ottawa took home second place overall in the triathlon, with a total time of 1:36:05 and Joe Rogers, another Ottawa native, placed third with his time of 1:38:06.
In the women’s division, Pembroke’s Kristen Bridges placed first (fourth overall) with a time of 1:45:07. Claude Dreano of Ottawa and Mississauga’s Lauren Heinken came in second and third respectively.
The following triathlon athletes placed first in their respective age and gender categories:
Female 20-24: Lauren Heinken of Mississauga. Female 25-29: Lindsey Duck of Pembroke. Female 30-34: Celine Griffin of Bancroft. Female 35-39: Kristen Bridges of Pembroke. Female 40-44: Claude Dreano of Ottawa. Female 45-49: Darlene Howe of Oshawa. Female 50-54: Patti Snarr of Ottawa. Female 55-59: Diana Atkinson of Barry’s Bay.
Story continues in the July 3, 2013 issue of The Valley Gazette.