"Fantastic" and "I want to do this", were the words out of the mouth's of American Olympic gymnasts Amanda Borden (1996 Gold Medallist) and Blaine Wilson (2 time Olympian and 5 time National Champion) as the WTF brought it's National Challenge to Tropicana Stadium in St. Petersburg, Florida. With over 5,000 gymnasts, coaches, and spectators in attendance for the Gasparilla Invitational Gymnastic Meet, the WTF athletes challenged the 160 yard obstacle course set up on the outfield artificial turf.

Also introduced for the first time was the CFC (Children's Fitness Challenge) Obstacle Course. The CFC course is 130 yards with the obstacles scaled down from the WTF obstacle course.

Coming away with the victory in the WTF Obstacle Course was personal trainer, Lori Abnathy, Tampa, Florida. This former University of West Virginia track standout ran a sizzling 52.070 seconds. Placing second on the course was Julie Bedenbaugh, Lakeland, Florida in 53.590 seconds. Following Julie were Dawn Forestt (54.630), Pat Guzman (55.170) and Sheila Law (55.480).

In the Grace and Physique Event, Amy Pierce of Providence, Rhode Island won the title. Amy is a mother and marketing rep along with being a fitness enthusiast. Following closely behind Amy was Julie Bedenbaugh (mother of two), Sheila Law, Justine Whitcomb, and Pat Guzman.

Nicole Weeks, a personal trainer and student at University of Central Florida, took home the Gold in the Fitness Skills Event. Second place went to Lori Abnathy (winner of the box jump and shuttle run). Following behind Lori were Pat Guzman (St. Petersburg, Florida), Janis Holland (Marietta, Georgia) and Justine Whitcomb (Auburndale, Florida).

Fitness Routine went to health club owner (Total Health - Winter Haven, Florida) Sheila Law. Following Sheila were Justine Whitcomb, Nicole Weeks, and Teresa Evans (Crystal Beach, Florida).

The Prestigious Tri-Fitness Award (all 4 events combined) went to Sheila Law. Winning the Dual Fitness Optional (obstacle course, skills, and grace and physique) was Julie Bedenbaugh. Lori Abnathy took home the trophy for Dual Fitness (obstacle and skills).

Winning the Shuttle Relay Event were Janis Holland, Lori Abnathy, Nicole Weeks, and Amy Pierce.

Much thanks goes out to Tim Keckler, owner of the Gasparilla Invitational, USA Gymnastics, the Beach Theater, all the judges and volunteers who made this event successful.

Next events will be the Western Challenge in Los Angeles (March 22-23), South Beach Challenge in Miami Beach (May 3-5) and WTF World Challenge in Las Vegas (July 12-14).

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