And With A Splash It Began
Hunter Haws of Des Moines crosses the finish line at Saturday’s OFC inaugural triathlon.
Oskaloosa, Iowa – With a splash into the Oskaloosa municipal swimming pool, then a quick dash down the hill to the waiting bicycles, the OFC (Oskaloosa Fitness Club) Sprint Triathlon was well under way.
The 550 meter swim started the day off for the athletes, who then completed an entire circuit on the Lacey Recreation Trail, or 12 miles, before taking off on their 3 mile run.
Lisa Alderson of OFC was pleased with the turnout, “the very first Ironman only had 18 athletes and OFC had 22.”
The group enjoyed some very positive feedback from the athletes, with many promises to return next year.
There was lessons also learned on how to make it better, ” We learned that the swim event needs to be more organized and the bike event will need to be open road.”
In the end, Hunter Haws of Des Moines crossed the line first for the men, with a time of 1:08:48. Ty Thompson of Oskaloosa was only 3 minutes behind with a 1:11:50 time. Josh Wermager placed a close third with a time of 1:12:53.
As with any event, it takes many volunteers to help things run smoothly. (submitted photo)
In the Women’s competition, Annette Wittrock of Ottumwa placed first with a time of 1:19:37. Heather Sprong took second with a time of 1:24:18 and Kandy Olinger of Oskaloosa came in third with a time of 1:25:55.
Teams also took part in the competition over the weekend. Team Grandma Pat 1 of Des Moines took the top spot with a time of 1:12:55. Team Vince of Oskaloosa crossed the line second in 1:28:31. Team Grandma Pat 2, also of Des Moines, placed third with 1:33:37.
