Ipswich YMCA Triathletes triumph on Crane Beach

More than 160 triathletes descended on Crane Beach on Friday, Aug. 24, to test their mettle in a battle against surf, sand and asphalt.

Swimmers started off the triathlon with a half-mile swim, followed by a 2.9-mile "run around the Castle" and back through the dunes to the bike staging area and then off on a 9.2-mile bike ride on Argilla Road.

Local athlete Greg Krathwohl (54:50) took first place for the Open Male category and Ipswich’s own Donna Adams was the first Female (1:04:30).

Other Age Group winners from Ipswich included Sandi Purinton (1:07:55) and Lucia Greenough (1:14:05).

"We had a great turnout and over 30 volunteers to help coordinate this event," said Race Director Terry Gauthier. "Special thanks to The Trustees of Reservations. The lifeguards and beach personnel were immense again this year in their efforts and support of this annual event. It is a unique and memorable race in a very special location and we are grateful to the Trustees for the opportunity to hold this event annually."

Sponsors for the event were Institution for Savings (Major) and Donald M. Greenough Law Office, Ipswich Center for Physical Therapy, First National Bank of Ipswich, as well as Rowley House of Pizza.