TMCnet News
Sailors Compete in Biathlon at SeaJun 17, 2013 (DEFENSE DEPARTMENT DOCUMENTS AND PUBLICATIONS/ContentWorks via COMTEX) -- Story Number: NNS130617-14 Release Date: 6/17/2013 By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Derek Harkins GULF OF OMAN (NNS) -- Sailors assigned to the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) competed in a biathlon, organized by Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR), in the ship's hangar bay, June 16. The participants competed in a 4,500-meter row, using rowing machine; a 22.5-kilometer bike ride, using exercise bikes; and another 4,500-meter row. "This competition is definitely not for the faint of heart," said Melyssa Patterson, fitness director (FITBOSS). "We had about 15 people sign up. That's a pretty good number for a competition like this. I'm glad that it took off." Explosives Ordnance Disposal 2nd Class David Medwedeff earned first place with a time of 1.19.37. "It's good to see other people on the ship excited to do these types of events and staying active," said Medwedeff. Lt. David Schultz followed in a close second with a time of 1.19.54 while Lt. j.g. Thomas Rollow, earned third place with a time of 1.24.25. "I didn't initially know if my normal workout was going to allow for an output of 100 percent today," said Rollow. "I knew what my target pace was for the row and the bike. I knew I would do well if I matched or exceeded that pace." Sailors and civilians from MWR assisted the participants during the competition. They maintained safety, monitored progress and provided encouragement. "It's always great when we can get something set up for the [Sailors] and give them something to do," said Patterson. "It breaks up the days a little bit." The competitions were held while under way help build Sailors' morale and to bring them together. "Nothing is going to build up the camaraderie like competition," said Patterson. "The spirit of competition is great for teamwork and team building. Fitness competitions like this will bring that out of the Sailors." |