Tri- and duathlete Nicholas Sterghos (West Point, '09) (right) snaps a picture with Philadelphia Insurance Companies CEO and fellow triathlete, Jamie Maguire. Nicholas thanks Maguire and his dedicated staff for sponsoring and supporting one of Nicholas' favorite competitions -- the Philadelphia Insurance Triathlon.

Nicholas finished 2nd Place Overall at the Philly Tri.

Ever since I was a six, I’ve wanted to be a pro.  First it was in soccer, then — after I fell in love with running — track and field.  However, triathlon is now making it a reality.

This past weekend I competed in the Philadelphia Insurance Triathlon.  I placed 2nd Overall in the Amateur field, just six seconds behind the leader — coming in at a time of 1:57:24.

My finish has now allowed me to apply for an elite license and race as a professional triathlete.

Thanks to race director Lars Beck and his staff for organizing one of the nation’s best triathlons.  Of course the race could not be as successful without its primary sponsor, Philadelphia Insurance Companies, and the personal dedication of its CEO and fellow triathlete, Jamie Maguire.

A special thanks to Richard Nager and Barbra Sivan for supporting me and the West Point Triathlon Team.  As always, I could not have accomplished what I have without the support of my family, friends, and sponsors.

Catching a breather after the race with, from left: 2LT and triathlete Randy Wintermantel, Nicholas, and hosts Richard Nager and Barbara Sivan.

A closer look at Nicholas' 2nd Place plaque.