By Doug La Rocque
Berwick, Maine’s Rob Ricard was first across the finish line this past Saturday, July 15 at the 18th running of the Skyhigh Adventures sponsored off road triathlon at Grafton Lakes State Park. He edged out Pennsylvania native Daryl Weaver by 36 seconds, with a very respective time of 1:29.14. The event consists of a 1-kilometer swim in Long Pond, a 20K bike and 6k run through the parks many trails. Stephanie Landy of Malta was the first female finisher, her first time on the winner’s podium.
Speaking with The Eastwick Press after the race, Ricard described these races as “a way of life” now for him and a great method to keep physically fit. He also said they form a racing community and strong friendships, as they often race against many of the same opponents.
He and second place finisher Weaver have such a bond, despite the distance between their homes. John Slyer and his wife Kathy own Skyhigh Adventures, and have been involved with the race since its inception.
Some of the money they raise from the event goes back in the form of a donation to the Friends of Grafton Lake, a support group for the park, and to help underprivileged children purchase bikes.