The Loggerhead Triathlon marked its 40th anniversary Aug. 22 at Carlin Park in Jupiter, welcoming back athletes from the inaugural race and more than 100 first-time participants.
Brothers John and Dave Reback, who competed in the first Loggerhead Triathlon in 1985, returned to the Jupiter coastline. Dave Reback is now a grandfather and raced alongside his family, according to a community announcement.
Diamond Litty, another competitor from the inaugural race, also returned for the anniversary.
For John Reback, the moment became even more special as he finished first overall in the 2026 race.
“To think that we were here for the very first race in 1985 and had the opportunity to come back and compete 40 years later is incredibly special,” Litty said.
“So much has changed in our lives, but there is still something about being out here in Jupiter and crossing that finish line that feels the same. It means a lot to still be part of this story.”
➤ FULL RESULTS: Complete results of the 2026 Loggerhead Triathlon
More than 100 first-time triathletes
While the anniversary celebrated those who have been part of Loggerhead’s history, it also welcomed the next generation of participants. More than 100 first-time triathletes competed in this year’s race, according to an announcement.
Leading up to race day, first-time participants were supported through race simulations, a dedicated Facebook Group community featuring a 10-week training program and weekly training meetups with Loggerhead coach Linda Neary. The effort was designed to make the experience more approachable and help new athletes arrive at the starting line feeling prepared and confident.
“Forty years is about so much more than the longevity of a race. It’s about the people who have grown up alongside it and the community that continues to support it,” Noel Martinez, president and CEO of the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce, said. “To welcome back athletes from that very first race while seeing more than 100 first-time triathletes cross the starting line this year speaks to both the history of Loggerhead and its future.”
Triathlon is one of Florida's longest running
The 40th anniversary race, produced by thePalm Beach North Chamber of Commerce and presented by Tampa General Hospital, brought together hundreds of athletes and spectators to celebrate four decades of competition, community and tradition in Jupiter, according to the announcement.
The tradition will continue next summer when the Loggerhead Triathlon returns to Jupiter on Aug. 21. For more information, visit LoggerheadTriathlon.com.
The Loggerhead Triathlon is produced by the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce and is one of Florida's longest-running triathlons. Since 1985, the event has welcomed athletes from the region and beyond to compete in a scenic oceanfront race experience known for its family-friendly atmosphere, competitive spirit and lasting traditions.
This story was created by web producer Michele Kelley (mkelley@pbpost.com) with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more.
This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Jupiter's Loggerhead Triathlon marks 40 years with 100+ new racers
