Triathletes tested the water and their meddle during the 10th annual Capt. Hiram’s River Challenge Triathlon.
Despite the challenging weather, about 80 athletes accepted the challenge to “Get off your ass and save some seagrass.” In the end, Michael Harris won first overall, coming in at 1:00, and Kristen Swayze won first female finisher at 1:12.
While the triathlon is geared toward beginners, Will Collins, Capt. Hiram’s president and an event participant, said there were quite a few repeat triathletes, including one gentleman who has run all 10 years.
Participants swam a quarter mile in the particularly choppy waters, biked 12 miles, and ran for 3.1 miles along Sebastian’s beautiful waterfront.
Rewarded for their efforts with an After Party at the SandBar, the weary athletes enjoyed a post-race breakfast, live music, and an awards ceremony.
The goal of the event is to raise money and awareness of the challenges facing the Indian River Lagoon, with proceeds supporting ecologically focused nonprofits. This year’s beneficiaries were the Coastal Conservation Association, which is dedicated to the conservation of Florida’s marine resources, and the Environmental Learning Center, a 64-acre nature center designed to encourage active stewardship of the environment through education, inspiration and empowerment.
For additional race information, visit Hirams.com/Triathlon.
Photos by Joshua Kodis
