Tuesday, April 8, 2008

Colin and the Red Hills Triathlon 2008

written by Richard Stephens: ATAC father, and Red Hills Tri competitor spouse

"The Area Tallahassee Aquatic Club (ATAC) was very well represented at the 2008 Red Hills Triathlon by 13-year old Colin Abbey (Age Group Pressure 1). Colin registered as the youngest competitor (in race history) to tackle Florida’s toughest “sprint” triathlon (1/3 mile swim, 16 mile bike, and a 5K run). Colin showed some nerves prior to the race which were quickly swept away as he hit the first wave of the swim. Colin showed that the hard work in the pool can pay off in other arenas as he positioned himself in the open water near the front of 75 other males (aged 29 and under) to exit the water in 4th place to the cheers of the crowd. Not having the strength or experience of the other competitors (after all he is only 13!!!), Colin was passed on the bike by many of the top finishers who took time as they passed him to congratulate him on his “great" swim. These same finishers would later take the time at the finish area to congratulate Colin on his good finish and overall performance.

Colin finished the 16-mile bike in approximately 1-hour and the 5K run in 27-minutes for a very respectable overall time 1 hour 38 minutes 6 seconds (1:38.06). Several spectators were heard saying, “Did you see that young kid?” Usually answered with the response, “He swims for ATAC.”
Several other faces from the pool deck were seen at the race, including Brian Ayers (Morgan and Makayla’s Dad) who hobbled in on bad knee at 1:39.00 and first timer Susan Stephens (Thomas and Anthony’s mom) who achieved her goal in finishing under two hours in 1:58.36.

Congratulations, ATAC…..young and not so young

1 comment:

cakeburnette said...

I have been visiting your site ever since you sent the email out about it. I am AMAZED at the stuff you and Colin are accomplishing! I've been working on getting into shape since the beginning of the year and it's hard--but NOTHING compared to what you do! Colin has grown up so much--what a handsome young man--and I know you and Mike are so proud of him. Keep up the good work!

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