MIAMI, Fla. – The Nova Southeastern University cross country and track and field teams volunteered for the Publix Escape to Miami Triathlon on Sunday, September 25th.

In order to assist the 1800 participants that competed in the race, the Sharks brought thirty athletes who all had their hands full with the huge number of participants. In addition to assisting racers at two water stations, the Sharks helped participants in their transitions from swimming to biking and from biking to running.

“This experience opened our athlete’s minds to other sports they could do after college,” said head coach Bryan Hagopian. “Something they could do to keep them in physical shape and help them learn the importance of supporting other athletes.”

“My favorite part was when I got to hold Rudy Garcia-Tolson’s prosthetic legs while he swam. It was sincerely inspiring to watch him compete,” said Kristina Labossiere (Sr., Sunrise, Fla.), an athlete who gave her time to volunteer. Rudy Garcia- Tolson is a well known above-knee amputee triathlete who participated in the Publix Escape to Miami Triathlon among others.

Coach Hagopian hopes to continue his athlete’s participation in these events. In addition to stressing the importance of maintaining personal fitness and a healthy lifestyle, he believes it is vital for the NSU Sharks to give back to the running community. Later this year the Sharks will volunteer with the ING Miami Marathon Company as they did in 2010.

To see what other events the Sharks have participated in, click HERE.

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