Saturday, June 26, 2010 -- Elkins, WV
Davis Health Systems Sprint Triathlon (iPO Event Id#: 12730)

[Details] [Coverage] [Photos] [Overall Results] [Results by Class] [2007] [2008]

Modest in Size, Big in Heart

Story and Photos by Julie Black.

The Sprint Triathlon, Sponsored by Davis Health System and Davis & Elkins (D&E) College, featured a course that wound it's way through the D&E campus.

Father and son compete in the triathlon together.

Racers began a 400-meter swim at the indoor pool, mounted their bikes in the parking lot to head out on a 12-mile road bike ride, and then did a 3.1-mile run. The run leg was especially unique because of its off-road demands, being on a cross country course.

Thought it was modest in numbers, the triathlon itself is big with heart and volunteers. Hosted by Youth Health Service, Inc. (www.youth-health.org), the proceeds benefited the non-profit agency dedicated to providing top quality behavioral health, plus social and child care services for youth and families in the Randolph County region.

Race director, Eric Anger, boasted of the beautiful area that surrounds Elkins and D&E, and advised me to take part in tubing and other fun activities that many visitors enjoy during the summer in the mountain area.

Riding the bike leg.

After chit-chat, it was time for some racing to get underway. The DJ pumped music throughout the square, while participants ran from the swim leg to the transition area. A small crowd gathered and cheered them on.

The top team of the day was Animal Care Center with a complete time of 53:35. Joey's Bike Shop out of Elkins, WV was the 2nd team to finish (1:01:55) with Team Whoop Whoop crossing for third.

Solo racer, Daniel Evans dominated the field, finishing sub-60 minutes with a time of 58:20 to claim first place. Mike Hudinac was the second individual to complete the course (1:05:46). Matt Downs finished in third a little more than a minute behind Hudinac.

The first female solo triathlete was Rebecca Schooner, who completed the course in 1:18:35. Suzanne Bishop held tight for second woman overall (1:19:37). Amy Dunkin proudly smiled as she finished in third with a time of 1:25:18.

Thanks to the many volunteers!

The event finished in front of the athletic building, where awards and food were given. Free massages and showers were also offered. Thanks for the big support provided by Davis Health System and Davis & Elkins (D&E) College.

Youth Health Service, Inc., is also supported locally by the United Way of Randolph County, private donations and fees. These funds help them attain many federal state and foundation grants to provide quality services.

Youth Health has received funding from the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation, The Gulf & Western Foundation, The Public Welfare Foundation, The U. S. Public Health Service, The U. S. Department of Children, Youth and Families, The WV Department of Health and Human Resources, The Governor's Safe and Drug Free Schools and Communities Program and many others.

For more information go to www.youth-health.org.