WINONA LAKE - Large crowds filled Winona Lake Park and lined the town's streets Saturday to watch the Warsaw Breakfast Optimist Club triathlon in Winona Lake.
The triathlon was founded by former Optimist member Phil Eherenman in 1993. He died in 2006.
Participants were required to swim 1/4a mile in Winona Lake; bike 13.5 miles, beginning in Winona Lake Park to Pierceton and back; and run 3.5 miles along the greenway trail.Approximately $13,000-$15,000 was raised by triathlon participants for the Optimist Club youth programs, according to Triathlon Director Ron Donkers.
Donkers said he was happy with Saturday's triathlon.
"I was pleased with the athlete's support and thankful the rain held off until the end," he said.
Melanie Hillman, Los Angeles, originally from Germany, competed in the triathlon.
Hillman, a competitive swimmer, said she trained in lakes and oceans in Los Angeles to prepare for Saturday's triathlon.
"There was seaweed in my eyes when I was swimming in Winona Lake, but I kept going and enjoyed the triathlon," Hillman said.
Hillman participated in the triathlon with her two friends from Washington, D.C., Adrienne Williams and Susan Donkers.
Williams, originally from Washington, Ind., previously competed in a 26.2-mile marathon in Washington, D.C., in 2005.
"It's great to visit my home state and be a part of a team," Williams said.
Donkers, daughter of Triathlon Chair Ron Donkers, said Saturday was her second time for participating in the triathlon in Winona Lake. She also participated in the triathlon in 2005.
"It was a windy bike ride and I had to make sure I kept both hands on my handle bars," Donkers said.
The team competed with 610 adult bicyclists, swimmers and runners.
Optimist Club President Jeff Owens said Saturday's triathlon is the club's biggest fundraiser.
"The triathlon allows the athletes to all walk away as winners, and provides a team-building experience for our club members," Owens said.
There were eight waves where participants took turns competing in the triathlon. Waves included men 15-29; 30-39; 40-49; 50-84; mixed teams; women 15-29; women 30-39 and women over 40.
Nathan Truex, 23, Ossian, was the first-place winner overall, completing the triathlon at 1:02:24.
Chris Wickard, 38, Crown Point, was the first female to finish at 1:12:33.
Plaques were awarded to the top 20 percent finishers by age group and category.
Triathlon results can be viewed online at onlineraceresults.com
