Tony Panizza at the 10-mile Run, 9 July 2006

Having overcome injuries and the unexpected and tragic death of his training/racing partner, Mike Hurley, only a few weeks earlier, Tony Panizza won big at the Coeur d'Alene Ironman on a very warm June 25th: he came from behind to win his age group (65-69) in a time of 12:34:07. Tony trailed the number two finisher for several miles, but made an all-out push for the last 3.5 miles to win with a margin of over 3 minutes!  Tony commemorated his late friend, Mike, by wearing Mike's assigned number in addition to his own race number, a move understood and supported by Mike's family and race officials. For the complete results, go to Coeur d'Alene Ironman.  

As an age group winner, Tony, again, has qualified for the Hawaii Ironman!

Congratulations, Tony!