Triathlon anyone?

  • Published
  • By Jennifer Greene
  • 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  Ahh ... the sights and sounds of summer; swimsuits, cook-outs, and trips to the lake. What better way to prepare for a great summer than to visit Staff Sgt. Henry Lopez at the Whiteman Fitness Center.

While there, register for the Whiteman AFB Triathlon or join the Body by Whiteman program.

At 7 a.m. June 27 beginning at the base pool, embark on a journey of determination and strength with fellow tri-athletes. There are three divisions; male, female, and co-ed. Co-ed teams must have a female member. Volunteers for road guards, transition area, floaters and other areas are needed for the triathlon.

The triathlon will include a 438 meter swim at the base pool, a 10K bike ride, after the swim, to the 509th Munitions Squadron weapons area and back and finally the 5K.The first and second place winners from each division will win prizes.

"We currently have five participants registered and are looking for more to join," said Sergeant Lopez, director of Body by Whiteman.

If a triathlon seems a bit overwhelming, sign-up for the Body by Whiteman program. The program can help future tri-athletes get in shape or just put people on the course to a healthy way of living.

"The program is 50 strong and looking for eager people to increase its numbers," Sergeant Lopez said.

Sergeant Lopez and the Fitness Center staff will meet with individuals and assess body mass index, conduct health screening and evaluate goals to jump start each fitness routine. They can also help track progress. Body by Whiteman is currently in round three; it began in January and will continue until January 2010.