The Columbia Triathlon is an event that continues to earn its icon status. If you race there once, you seem destined to return, and like so many, when you discuss your experiences there, you may find yourself prefacing your comments with the declaration: "It's my favorite race."

The 2005 version of the 22-year-old CT had everything that a "Favorite"race should have. The weather (clear with temps in the 60s) was perfect and spectators, like the 1500 participants themselves, were abundant and enthusiastic. And, as usual, the management, staging, amenities etc. were First Class.

And the competition was inspiring, a true celebration of Sport. Olympic bronze medalist Susan Williams' decimated the nine- year- old women's course record. In dramatic fashion, Paul Fritzche ran down former CT champ Todd Wiley to win the men's race. And sterling efforts by age groupers were too numerous to count.

Adding even more excitement was the fact that Columbia was the "Best of the US..." Qualifier for both Maryland and Virginia. Baltimore's Anthony Van Lierop and Kensington's Connie Chow Dowler took the top spots for Maryland. Reston's Stephen Smith and Annandale's Margaret Shapiro, both of whom were Honorable Mention USAT Triathletes of the Year in 2004, led the way for the Virginians. For the second straight year, Shapiro was the 2nd woman/1st amateur to cross the finish line. She was the outright women's champ in 2002.

The "Best of.." winners and pass-downs (alternates) are listed below. If you follow Mid-Atlantic racing, you'll agree that both states will be very well represented at the "Best of the US Championship." For compete Columbia Triathlon results, visit www.tricolumbia.org.

 MARYLAND


 Men's Winner:  Anthony Van Lierop (31, Baltimore)
 #1 Pass-Down:  Brian Benda (34, Parkton)
 #2 Pass-Down:  Steven Dowler (30, Kensington)
 #3 Pass-Down:  Dan MacKenzie (23, Rockville)
 #4 Pass-Down:  Josh Riff (30, Baltimore)


 Women's Winner:  Connie Chow Dowler (30, Kensington)
 #1 Pass-Down:  Jennifer Penzell (28, Annapolis)
 #2 Pass-Down:  Elizabeth Flynn (33, Ellicott City)
 #3 Pass Down:  Janelle McIntyre (39, Ellicott City)
 #4 Pass Down:  Audrey Peterman (22, Annapolis)


 VIRGINIA


 Men's Winner:  Stephen Smith (35, Reston)
 #1 Pass-Down:  Michael Harlow (23, Richmond)
 #2 Pass-Down:  Dan Frost (36, Arlington)
 #3 Pass-Down:  Steve Tappan (37, Alexandria)
 #4 Pass-Down:  Michale Buonaugurio (49, Falls Church)


 Women's Winner:  Margaret Shapiro (28, Annandale)
 #1 Pass-Down:  Shandra Wrinkle (24, Gainesville)
 #2 Pass Down:  Lisa Thomas (29, Alexandria) 
*2nd fastest women's run split in race history!
 #3 Pass Down:  Rebecca Moore (23, Richmond)
 #4 Pass Down:  Emily Davies (32, Arlington)

For more information on the "Best of the US Amateur Triathlete Competition," contact Jerry at 651-714-1829 or E-Mail.