NEVIS CYCLE & TRIATHLON CLUB

Along the shores of beautiful Gallows Bay in Nevis, the TriStar season opener concludes after a vibrant day of sport

31 MAR 2012, Nevis: The intimate 2012 TriStar roster attracted legacies of families, new triathletes and a field of PROs ambitious to begin their race season on the right foot. "With TriStar, I always know the locations and options are among the best in the world. When you can combine sport with triathlon and bring the entire family, it becomes a really special social experience," said the famous French actor and pilot Paul Belmondo.

With a forecast of 84 degrees, a fresh Nevisian morning greeted athletes on Gallows Bay before the start of TriStar111 at 8:15 AM. Olivier Marceau (SUI) emerged first while Laurel Wassner surged ahead of the pack to exit second. By 8:45 AM after the start of TriStar33.3, all athletes had officially begun their race in Nevis paradise.

Chris McHugh, from east coast USA was the first to step onto the red carpet and cross the finish line in TriStar33.3. Chris and his family became a favorite after their participation in this week's Pink Lily charity 5K. McHugh and his wife participated in the event with their four young children and inspired many with their involvement. Following McHugh was Johanna Starr (SKN) in second and Paul Belmondo (FRA) in third. By mid-morning, the St. Kitts/Nevis' Sports Minister, the Honorable Hensley Daniel joined finishers on the red carpet to officially welcome them to the island and to personally congratulate many athletes on their race in Nevis.

"Triathlon in Nevis is a real community event that we are very proud of. Sport is important for Nevis; to welcome athletes from across the world to our country is an honor," said Daniel. The TriStar111 100km/62 mile bike course brought the greatest challenge with its fast descents requiring swift handling of the bike. "TriStar111 Nevis was one of the toughest races I've ever done. The long, steep climbs, screaming fast descents and technical skills required on this course presented a rewarding challenge," said PRO Amy Kloner.

Crowds of fans and local cheerleaders lined the red carpet to welcome the first TriStar111 athlete to the finish. Olivier Marceau (SUI) earned his first place spot beating his 2011 finish where he took second to Chris McCormack. Following Marceau, Chris Meewes (USA) -- first-time TriStar racer -- took second followed by John Hirsch (USA) in third. An official awards presentation was held at Occasions post race to honor the accomplishments of TriStar Nevis 2012. TriStar Race Director, President of the St. Kitts/Nevis Triathlon Federation and Press Officer of the Nevis Cycle and Triathlon Club Winston Crooke received special recognition for his support of triathlon on the island. "Winston Crooke is a genuine ambassador for the sport of triathlon. His has a rich commitment to seeing every individual has the opportunity to train, race and appreciate sports. This dedication is a fiber woven beautifully into the Nevisian community and now, internationally," said Lindsey Kurhajetz, General Manager Star Events USA.