SAN DIEGO–Armen Vartanian–a 21 year old honor student at the University of California–San Diego (UCSD)–originally from the San Francisco Bay Area–represented the Republic of Armenia in the Ironman Triathlon competition on May 19–2001.
This was Vartanian’s first time participating in the Ironman Triathlon. He finished fourth place in this physically demanding race which involves a 2.4 mile ocean water swim–followed by a 112 mile bike ride and a 26.2 mile marathon–in 10:05:58.
Embossed on Vartanian’s uniform was the red–blue and orange tri-colored flag. And as he crossed the finish line–he gripped the Armenian flag high above his head–for the 2,000 plus spectators to see.
The Ironman Triathlon at Camp Pendelton had 1,800 international competitors and was one of the 21 international qualifying races leading to the World Championships this October in Hawaii.
Vartanian–finishing fourth in his age group–qualified to participate in the World Championships in Hawaii. His goal is to come in the top 5 in his age group during the October race and thereafter–become a professional athlete.
In the meantime–in preparation for the World Championship triathlon–he is training 30 hours a week and actively looking for race sponsors–while working at maintaining his honor-roll standing.
For more information or to sponsor Armen Vartanian–call 650-270-6077 or e-mail at avartani@ucsd.edu.