ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Thousands of participants showed up at Vinoy Park over the weekend for the 41st annual St. Anthony's Triathlon in St. Petersburg.

According to hospital officials, the triathlon includes the fourth-largest Olympic distance triathlon in the U.S.

Sunday included an Olympic distance and sprint triathlon, all to raise money for health programs at St. Anthony Hospital.

“It was a great race,” said Marc Dubrick, winner of the men’s division for the Olympic distance triathlon. “It’s one of those times where you just feel good and keep pushing. We don’t get those all the time. We rarely get them and put the throttle to the ground.”

It’s his third time competing in this triathlon, but he’s been a pro since 2018.

“I mean, it’s a full-time job. I train anywhere from 20 to 28 hours a week, but it’s my dream job,” said Dubrick. “Races like this put up good prize money, and that’s how we make money, and I’m really thankful.”

Lisa Becharas came in first in the women’s division of the Olympic distance triathlon. She and Marc are teammates with The Real Triathlon Squad. 

Becharas says for her, competing in this race wasn’t a sure thing.

“The run was a big question mark for me. I have been dealing with a little calf setback,” she said. “So going into the run, I said bike as hard as you can to get as big of a gap as you can because those runners are coming for you.”

Add to that, a year ago, she had double hip surgery and shoulder surgery, but determination put her across the finish line.

“It’s a testament to keep going and you can surprise yourself if you just stay positive,” said Becharas.