Gulf Winds athletes dominate at Cape San Blas Duathlon

By Ann Bowman
For the 2nd consecutive year, Gulf Winds multi-sporters excelled at the Cape San Blas Duathlon, held Saturday April 7. GWTC athletes claimed the top 3 male and 2,3,4 female spots. The Panama City Panhandle Runners and Triathletes Club do an excellent job at organizing a low-key and fun event with unique awards. The race consists of two 2.4 mile run loops sandwiched around a 17.5-mile bike leg.

6 time champion, Jeff Bowman, rode a blazing bike split to his 2nd consecutive victory, outdistancing GWTC members Steve Barraco and Tony Guillen, who finished 2nd and 3rd respectively.

On the women's side, Ann Guillen, with an excellent bike leg, earned her 1st top 3 Duathlon finish (finishing 2nd). GWTC members Lynn Powell and Pam Breza were close behind.

Garnering 1st place Age Group awards were GWTC members Bob Keller, Phil Munoz, Gina Hickey, and Guessna Dohrman.

In the team category, Mark Sawicki and his daughter Lisa, claimed 1st place in the Mixed division.

Competing in only his 2nd multi-sport event ever, David Bigoney and his assistant Dana Stetson captured 1st place in the visually impaired category.

All in all, Tallahasseans gathered the lion's share of awards, which went deep in each category. Post-race festivities included the usual swapping of stories and lies, along with free chili dogs and beverages. A special thanks to Marty Kirkland and Joe Edgecombe for orchestrating this little gem of a race and for their support of multi-sport athletes in the Panhandle.