Annual Triathlon Welcomes Runners, Walkers and Wheels

More than 1,000 runners, walkers and wheels joined in the 12th annual PossAbilities Triathlon last Sunday, April 27th, a race in which able-bodied and physically-challenged locals compete for the grand prize of $6,000. The event is organized by LLUH's PossAbilities, a community outreach group founded by the LLU Medical Center East Campus and the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians that aims to provide community and activities for those who were born with or have a permanent physical challenge. The event this year was held at the Loma Linda University's Drayson Center, and featured a 5k run/walk/roll, a kids' triathlon, an adult triathlon and several rallies. After the kids' triathlon, the group "Canada's Sing Along Superstars" performed several songs, including "JiggiJump", a performance combining story-telling and physical movement with music. Dozens of vendors set up booths with information about programs and resources. The adult triathlon included a 3.1-mile run, an 11-mile bicycle ride, and a 150-yard swim. William Jones, 27, of LA Jolla won first place in this division, with 22 year old Connor Sousa of San Luis Obispo seconds behind. The third place winner was 27-year-old Kyle Hughes of Lake Forrest. The 5k run/walk/roll resulted with 18-year-old Scott Oseguero of Beaumont in first place with a finish time of 17:22.8. Seventeen year old Erubey Camacho of Colton came in five seconds later, and 23 year old Alberto Rodriguez finished less than 30 seconds after that. The Tri relay winners were Jared and Jodi Wright, and the Tri Challenged Relay winners were Fermin Camarena and Perry Greenle. The event raises funds for PossAbilities. This year, The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians presented a sponsor's check of $200,000.