Gulf Winds Track Club was well represented by four athletes who took home seven gold medals and two silver medals at the Masters track and field meet of the Sunshine State Games in Gainesville July 9.
Leading the charge with three gold medals was Charles Futch. In the 55 to 59 age division, Charles had winning marks in the High Jump (4’6″), Discus (76’4″) and Javelin (90’7″). This was the first competition for Futch since recent surgery implanted a screw in his foot to repair a severe bone injury. After his first attempt of the day (in the high jump), he said he felt like he could give it one more attempt. That one more attempt eventually grew into a sweep of three field events.
GWTC members also dominated the male and female race walking events. Gene Opheim won the 50 to 54 age division versions of the 1500 meters (7:47) and the 3000 meters (16:04). Similarly, Tish Beach took gold medals in the 50 to 54 age division for the 1500 meters and the 3000 meters with times of 9:34 and 19:30 respectively.
Rounding out the Gulf Winds contingent was Dave Rogers in the 45 to 49 age division. Rogers was awarded silver medals in the 100 meters (13.46) and the 200 meters (27.35). Envious of the gold medals his fellow track club members were awarded, Rogers was overheard to be considering the merits of screwing spikes into his bare feet and going for a long brisk walk.