MARINE CORPS AIR STATION, IWAKUNI, Japan -- One hundred thirty seven athletes subjected themselves to the challenge of the 14th Annual Japanese and American Goodwill Super-Duathlon Saturday. The event began with a five-kilometer run, continued with a 28-kilometer bike ride around the Station, and ended with a second, 5-k run around the sea wall. The race drew all kinds of competitors, eager to test their endurance mettle.
Individuals, as well as two and three man teams competed. Yasuo Takahashi, from Okayama Prefecture won the race with a time of 1 hour, 18 minutes. For the women, Kana Matsumoto from Shimane Prefecture took first with a 1 hour, 33 minute finish. For the team division, the Ice Dragons from Marine Wing Support Squadron 171 triumphed in 1 hour, 46 minutes.
"More people came than we thought," said Jerry Howard, a competitor. Howard was part of a three-man team from the Ground Electronics Maintenance Division.
"It was fun just being with the people," said Howard. "Receiving encouragement, making jokes; just having a good time."
Howard's portion of the duathlon was the 28-kilometer bike ride. "The endurance portion is my favorite part," said Howard. "Enduring the pain is fun for a Marine."
Plenty of pain was offered from the race, which required participants to cover a combined total of 34 kilometers.
A large number of Station volunteers were positioned along the three courses. 18 station residents and 50 Japanese nationals helped out with the event, said Tadamasa Uemera, the Station recreation specialist.
"I always volunteer for these things," said Gilbert Millan, a Station resident. "I enjoy getting involved in community relations."
The volunteers directed racers, provided refreshments, manned booths, and provided communication and surveillance throughout the competition.
"This was a good opportunity for relationships between base personnel and the Japanese community," said Uemera. An award ceremony was held after the event.
Trophies were presented to first, second and third place winners in men's and women's age group divisions. Overall individual and team winners were also awarded.