Emerald Coast Triathlon

This was an inaugural event, directed by Jerry Lynch, the long-time director of Gulf Coast Half-Ironman. The race was held on April 15th, in Panama City Beach and hosted by the Sunspree Holiday Inn. There are plans in the works for another one of these races in the late summer and future plans for this to become a three race series.

The race began with an unusually calm water swim, advertised as a 1/3 mile. In reality the swim was probably over 1/2 mile. The 18 mile bike followed along highway 98 and was typically flat and windy. The 5k run course headed inland and aid stations were provided every mile. The race ended with a surprise 50 yard struggle through the beautiful Emerald Coast sugar sand. It was a pleasant ending as you received your race t-shirt and some other goodies after completing the event.

The post race festivities included something unheard of...real food. We were served hamburgers or chicken sandwiches grilled outdoors at the host hotel beach pavilion. Beer and other beverages were also provided as well as live entertainment.

For a first time event, the race was well run on a great venue with a lot of potential. Highly recommended.

Complete results may be found at: www.usat-se.w1.com/emeraldcoast00.htm

Jeff Bowman (3rd Overall Male) 1:23.39
Kathy McDaris (1st Masters) 1:45.24
Gina Hickey (1st age group) 1:56.40
Richard Baker (2nd age group) 1:28.59
Cathy McCarty (2nd age group) 1:55:59
George West (3rd age group) 1:36.55
Chris Rollins (3rd age group) 1:40.32
Tim Shea 1:48.38
Steve Ovenden 1:49.56
Bill Duffack 1:50 38
Tom McHaffie 1:57.23