GREAT ABACO TRIATHLON
Instead of two different races, as used in previous years, this year's Great Abaco Triathlon comprised a single sprint race consisting of a half mile swim, 15 mile bike race and 3 mile run. As in all previous Great Abaco Triathlons, the start and finish area was within Abaco Beach Resort.
The competitors entered the water at 9 am on 30th August in bright, sunny conditions and the regular triathlon participants soon distanced themselves from the casual weekend trainers.
The overall winner in the Elite division was John O'Keefe of Florida with Freeport's David Bell in third place. The female Elite winner was Linda Neary of Florida.
Bahamians placed well in the age group categories: 13 year old Jacinda Mereault of Nassau won the Under 14 Female; 12 year old Andrew Bell of Freeport won the Under 14 male; Vanessca Carroll of Freeport placed 2nd in the 15-19 Female; Sabrina Barry of Freeport won the 20-24 Female; Shawn Neely of Nassau placed 3rd in the 20-24 Male; Mackey Williams of Nassau placed 2nd in the 25-29 Male; Dale Hill of Marsh Harbour placed 4th in the 30-34 Male; and Brent Stuart of Freeport placed 2nd in the 45-49 Male.
In addition, many local residents took part in the event just for the fun of it and there were relay teams which shared the different disciplines in a race against each other.
It was calculated that over 200 visitors arrived on Abaco specifically for the Great Abaco Triathlon and local stores and restaurants participated in giving them all a good time.