Amputee triathlete Hector Picard to compete in Great Abaco Family Fitness
From Bahama islands info
TREASURE CAY, Abaco — Hector Picard is a bi-lateral amputee after almost losing his life in a work related accident in 1992. He was told by doctors he would have to re-learn everything he took for granted, such as buttoning his shirt or eating. With the support of his family and friends, he was able to overcome obstacles placed in front of him and excel beyond anyone’s imagination. He found ways to get back into his active lifestyle, and in 2009 he competed in his first triathlon. He is currently a motivational speaker and competes in many different events, including Ironman distance triathlons, long distance bike rides such as “Hands for Baby Jameson” and will now compete in the Great Abaco Family Fitness Weekend 2014.
Hector and his family will be flying into Treasure Cay on Thursday March 20th 2014, where they will stay at the Treasure Cay Beach, Marina, & Golf Resort. Thanks in part to a grant by the Cable Cares Foundation, Hector will be able to talk with local schools in Treasure Cay and Abaco about his journey and to offer motivation and guidance. On Friday afternoon, Hector will demonstrate how he changes a tire in a race with no assistance, and also meet and greet the participants and share his story.
That evening Hector will participate in the weekend’s first event, the 1-mile Open Water Swim. He does not use additional flotation or assistance, and competes under his own power and limitations. The following day he will compete in the Sprint Triathlon – a 500m swim, 12.1 mile bike, and a 5km run. The two races take part on the gorgeous 3+ mile Treasure Cay beach, which was voted one of the Top 10 best beaches in the world. Hector’s enthusiasm has shown through even in the early planning stages – “I’m looking forward to having a memorable experience at the Great Abaco Family Fitness Weekend!” he declared.
The third annual Great Abaco Family Fitness Weekend is scheduled from March 21st through 23rd. Participants have come from all over the world to take part, and this year is no exception. Persons have already registered from across the US, Canada, the UK, and throughout the Bahamas including Nassau, Freeport, and Abaco.
There are three main events to the weekend – the first is a 1-mile Open Water Swim, the second are Sprint and Olympic Triathlons (both individuals and relays) and the third is a 5k/10k fun run/walk. Competitors can choose to compete in one or all of the events. In addition to the main events, there is a Kids’ 1-mile fun run and a cheerleading clinic put on by Cheer Bahamas. Further details of these events can be found on the event website GAFFW.com. Registration is also available on the website or at the Friends of the Environment office in Marsh Harbour.
The two main beneficiaries of the Great Abaco Family Fitness Weekend are the Rotary Club of Abaco and Friends of the Environment. The non-profit organizations are instrumental in organizing volunteers and support for the event and have also entered teams into the event in past years.
For more on this story go to:
