Now that’s what you call a successful comeback.
After a forced two-year break due to the pandemic, the Bucks County Duathlon reinstated itself Sunday as one of the top multi-sport competitions in the area.
Approximately 70 run-bike athletes registered for the 11th rendition of the BCD – a two-mile run, 10-mile bike, two-mile run in and around Washington Crossing Historic Park – and they weren’t disappointed.
Fast times were reported throughout the field. Weather conditions were close to perfect for a late summer day and there were smiles all around.
Proceeds from the event go to Missy Flynn, the former world-class triathlete from Newtown who survived a life-threatening brain aneurysm in 2005. Over the history of the BCD and related events, more than $110,000 has been raised to help cover uninsured medical expenses.
The overall title went to James Smith of Washington Crossing. The 49-year-old hit the finish line in 55:20. Smith also picked up the masters crown.
Russell McCleskey, 45, of Langhorne placed second overall in 56:01. Bob Burke, 58, of Feasterville was third in 56:52.
The women’s overall crown went to Lana Karpf. The 17-year-old from Blue Bell clocked in at 1:10.19. Finishing second was Jillian Tassi, 38, of Newtown who completed the course in 1:17.05. Theresa Kaness, 46, of Newtown was third in 1:20.03. Kaness was also the women’s masters winner.
Other top age-group times included Nick Accardo, 24, who finished fourth overall in 58:34; Will Sauer, 59, who was fifth overall in 58:44; Anthony Pszeniczny, 61, with a 1:01.45; and Fernando Moura, 71, with a 1:02.20.
Complete results can be found at www.linmarksports.com/results.
The Bucks County Duathlon organizers would like to thank Upper Makefield police chief Mark Schmidt and his staff and Larry Harvey and his fire-police crew for their fine work with road security. Also, St. Mary Ambulance Unit for being on call.
The race committee also wishes to acknowledge the contributions of its top sponsors, including UMBB, Newtown Athletic Club, David Craig Jewelers, Newtown Bicycle Shop, Guy’s Bicycles and Firehouse Cycles.
“After a two-year hiatus it was great to see some familiar faces and some new ones as well,’’ said BCD committee member Harry Betz. “It appeared everyone had a great time judging by the nice comments we received. Thanks to all the volunteers, our sponsors, the Upper Makefield Police Department and the fire police for making our event once again a great success.’’
