Athletes Set to Take to Loma Linda's Streets for PossAbilities Triathlon

More than 800 people, both physically-challenged and able-bodied, plan to gather at the starting line at the Drayson Center at 7 a.m. today for the ninth annual Loma Linda University PossAbilities Triathlon.

Supported by a $300,000 donation from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, the lead sponsor for PossAbilities for seven years, the spring triathlon consists of a 3.1-mile run, an 11-mile bike ride, and a 150-swim in the Drayson Center pool. Those interested can also participate in a 5K run, walk and roll.

"We are proud to welcome all the athletes who come from across the nation and the world and from all different walks of life,” said Michael Jackson, administrator of Loma Linda University Medical Center East Campus, which stages the event. “Our physically challenged athletes deserve a lot of credit as they participate side-by-side with the able-bodied athletes."

"Witnessing the indomitable spirit of athletes from the disabled community inspires our ongoing involvement with PossAbilities year after year," said San Manuel Chairman James C. Ramos. "The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians is honored to support an event that affirms the athletic potential and drive that is within us all."

Among those expected to compete is Delmon Dunston, 32, of Moreno Valley, who models for internationally famous fashion designer Kenneth Cole.

Mr. Dunston was paralyzed from the chest down 10 years ago after shattering a vertebrae in his neck and injuring his spinal chord. He credits PossAbilities and Loma Linda University Medical Center East Campus for pushing physically-challenged athletes to tap their potential.

“PossAbilities has made an extremely positive impact on my life,” he said. “It has shown me that no matter the situation one is facing, the possibilities are endless.”

Mr. Dunston continues to advocate for PossAbilities and participates in many sporting activities, including competing stints with the U.S. Quad Rugby Association National Team. He hopes to be invited to the hand-cycling developmental camp for the 2012 U.S. Paralympic games in London.

The PossAbilities Triathlon is expected to bring some road closures to ensure the safety of participants, so plan ahead.

The following road closures will be in effect Sunday:

4 a.m. to 8 a.m.

• Stewart Street from Mound to Anderson
• Shepardson from Benton to Mound
• Anderson north and south bound reduced to a single lane from University to Academy Way

7 a.m. to 10 a.m.

• Barton Road from Loma Linda Ave to University, all traffic
• Benton from Barton Road north to Shepardson
• Shepardson from Benton to Mound

 Traffic will be detoured as followed:

Westbound Barton Road to Loma Linda Ave south to Lawton west to Campus Street then south to Barton Road. Traffic will be allowed to cross Barton Road when directed by the Sheriffs Department Officers. Traffic will proceed north on Campus to University and then west bound to Barton Road.

Eastbound Barton Road north to University Ave east bound to Campus Street then south to Barton Road. Traffic will be allowed to cross Barton Road when directed by the Sheriffs Department Officers. Traffic will proceed south to Lawton eastbound to Loma Linda Ave north bound to Barton Road east.

Residents on Barton Road are asked to follow the direction of the Sheriffs Department personnel and City of Loma Linda Public Works for access directions.

Good luck to all the participants!