O

n August 20 at the crack of dawn the 30th Annual Sandestin Triathlon 
(formerly “The Elephant Walk Triathlon) took place in Sandestin, 
luring more than 800 participants. Teams and individuals from as far as 
California, Louisiana and surrounding areas were all in high spirits to 

make this event another memorable one. There were lifeguards in the water looking out 
for swimmers and sheriff’s officers directing the roadways and intersections to make 
sure the athletes were safe.

A .5 mile Gulf of Mexico swim, 20 miles of biking along the beautiful emerald coast 

and a 4 mile run through Sandestin Beach and bay side communities were the feats to 
complete. At the end of the race the athletes were treated to snacks and massages while 
others lounged around the pool and relaxed while they waited for the award ceremony. 

Jessica Demello Jones was the overall female winner with a time of 1:31:05 while 

David Robert Shearon clenched it for the men as an overall winner with his time 
being 1:26:42. Other awards, like the Scott Christmas award and the male and female 
Master’s award, were also given to participants.

photos & story by

 

Zhalman Harris

   VIP Destin at Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort

Gulf Coast TriTeam

Sharyl Drake & Lacey Hilton

Adam Hall & John Tereo

Candice Taylor, Lauren Stevens & Chloe Giles

Kim Broughton & John Powers

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9/27/16   2:00 PM