Cheered on by family, friends and supporters, more than 100 participants from all over the state competed in the fifth annual LLS Conquistadores Triathlon, a USAT Sanctioned Sprint Triathlon to benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
Racers including several disease survivors bounded into the surf at Jaycee Park for a 500 meter ocean swim, followed by a 12.4 mile bike race and 3.1 mile run.
Vero resident Buddy Verderber finished first in his age group (20 – 29), and just a hairsbreadth behind overall first place winner John Reback of Jupiter.
Proceeds from the event help fight blood cancers through research, education and patient programs.
PHOTOS BY DENISE RITCHIE, PHIL SUNKEL and TOM KANE.