Jennifer Peryam

WINONA LAKE – Bill Pauley spent Saturday morning swimming, running and biking in a triathlon in Winona Lake.
Pauley, 74, Valparaiso, was one of hundreds of athletes who participated in Saturday’s Warsaw Breakfast Optimist Club 16th Annual Triathlon in Winona Lake Park.
He has competed in the triathlons in Winona Lake for 10 years. Pauley said he looks forward to the triathlon in Winona Lake each year.
“I love the diversified venue and the competition,” Pauley said.
He said he has exercised by biking, running and swimming two days a week to prepare for the triathlon.
There were 637 people who participated in the triathlon.
Registration proceeds went to the Warsaw Breakfast Optimist Club. The organization is dedicated to serving youth.
The triathlon is in memory of Phil Eherenman, who died May 3, 2006. Eherenman founded the race in 1993.
Men and women ages 15 and up competed in the triathlon.
Ron Donkers, triathlon chair, said $16,000 was raised Saturday that will be used to fund the Optimist’s programs for children.
“The triathlon went smoothly thanks to the Optimist Club and the cooperation of the town and residents to allow us to use streets and put on the event,” Donkers said.
Participants came from Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Ohio, Colorado and Iowa.
The triathlon began with a one-fourth-mile swim in Winona Lake; a 13-1/2-mile bike ride to Pierceton and back to Winona Lake; and a 3-1/2-mile run on Boys City Drive, the Lake City Greenway, Southtown Addition, Chestnut Street and Park Avenue.
Dale Sullivan, 68, Logansport, was another participant.
“I have participated in many triathlons over the years, but the one in Winona Lake is one of my favorites,” Sullivan said.
He said over the years he has increased his swimming and bicycle times, but his running time has slowed down.
His key to succeeding in the triathlon is to listen to his body.
“Wisdom prevails and longevity and discipline also are important,” Sullivan said.