Isle File
Californians sweep titles at Keauhou Triathlon

Advertiser Staff

Californians Chad Hawker and Michelle Gwozdo won the men's and women's races, respectively, at the 19th annual Keauhou Kona Triathlon yesterday on the Big Island.

Hawker, 27, of Seaside, Calif., successfully defended his championship, finishing in four hours, three minutes. Kailua-Kona's Brent Imonen was second in 4:10:42 and Hong Kong's Gordo Byrn was third in 4:12:31.

Gwozdo, 30, of Carlsbad, Calif., finished in 4:34:59. Susan Burr of Honolulu (4:37:23) edged Jennifer McTigue of Honolulu (4:37:40) for second.

The race is a 1.2-mile swim in Kailua Bay, a 56-mile bike from Kailua-Kona to Waikoloa and a 13.2-mile run on Ali'i Drive to the finish at the Aston Keauhou Beach Resort.

Twenty-five international qualifying slots were awarded and 30 special qualifying slots went to Big Island residents who hope to compete in the Ironman Triathlon in October.

About 600 athletes made the 6:30 a.m. start, according to race officials.

SURFING

• Surf Into Summer: Finals in all divisions of the Local Motion Surf Into Summer contest will be completed today at the Ala Moana Bowl.

World amateur champion Joel Centeio was one of yesterday's standouts, advancing into the final of the prestigious junior men's division.

He will also compete against current pros Braden Dias, Fred Patacchia Jr. and Brian Pacheco, among others, in a special "airshow" heat that will also be completed today.

The event is considered the largest amateur surfing contest in the state.