Team Toledo Achievement Awards
Team Toledo recognizes the achievements of its members every year. Nominations for deserving recipients are made from the membership at large, and a final vote is then conducted within the Board of Advisors for the final recipient of each award. Members receiving awards are recognized at the annual meeting held in the spring.
2024 Female Triathlete of the Year - Megan Gardam
This athlete is the definition of tenacity and determination. Despite working a demanding 40+ hour a week job, she completed two full Ironman events in a single season and achieved her long-awaited dream—qualifying for the Ironman World Championships in Kona at Ironman New Zealand.
Her journey to Kona has been years in the making, patiently competing in 12 full- distance Ironman races, never giving up. Racing is her passion—when she isn't competing in an Ironman, she can likely be found running through Walt Disney World in costume. Beyond her own races, she is a dedicated leader, making time in her packed schedule to serve Team Toledo, including as a board member and, until recently, as president.
Even in the face of significant physical setbacks, her perseverance never wavered. In the past year alone, she completed Ohio 70.3 in July, Louisville 70.3 in August, Wisconsin 140.6 in September, the grueling Dopey Challenge in January (consisting of a 5K, 10K, half marathon, and full marathon over four days), and then capped it all off with Ironman New Zealand in March—where she secured her Kona qualification.
Her relentless drive and humble spirit make her an inspiration to everyone around her. She embodies what it means to chase a dream with passion and resilience. No one is more deserving of this award than Megan Gardam.
2024 MALE TRIATHLETE OF THE YEAR
I am honored to nominate this athlete for Male Triathlete of the Year. I have had the privilege of knowing him for several years, and he has continually inspired those around him with his unwavering positivity, sportsmanship, and dedication to the sport.
He was one of the first athletes I met during my first open-water swim, and his encouragement and support helped calm my nerves—a testament to his character and willingness to uplift others. Beyond his kindness, he is a fierce competitor who has demonstrated remarkable growth and perseverance throughout his triathlon career.
This past year, he took his training to the next level, and the results spoke for themselves. He competed in both the Dooby Du and South Fork Duathlons, followed by an outstanding triathlon season that included:
Grand Rapids Triathlon - 2nd place finish
Whitehouse Triathlon - 3rd place finish
Ironman Ohio 70.3 - 7th place finish
Sylvania Triathlon - 2nd place finish
Ironman Chattanooga 140.6 – 9th place finish with an impressive time of 10:13:20
His accomplishments on the course are remarkable, but what truly sets him apart is his unwavering support for fellow athletes. He leads by example, always offering encouragement and wisdom to those around him. His dedication, humility, and passion for the sport make him more than deserving of this recognition.
It is with great admiration that I nominate Patrick Convery for Male Triathlete of the Year. He embodies the very best of the triathlon community, both on and off the course.
2024 FEMALE DUATHLETE OF THE YEAR - BARB BILOW
It is with great enthusiasm that we recognize this next athlete as the Female Duathlete of the Year. Her dedication, resilience, and outstanding performances throughout the season have set her apart as an inspiration to all.
This year, she demonstrated incredible strength across multiple events, delivering remarkable performances at:
Dooby Du Duathlon - 1st place finish
South Fork Duathlon - 1st place finish
Whitehouse Duathlon - 1st place finish
Trillium Duathlon – 1st place finish
Ironman Ohio 70.3 – 10th place finish
Several other podium finishes in the Dave’s running series.
Her unwavering commitment to training, ability to push through challenges, and consistent podium finishes are a testament to her work ethic and passion for the sport.
Beyond her impressive race results, she embodies the spirit of the multisport community—encouraging fellow athletes, supporting newcomers, and setting a standard of sportsmanship that inspires everyone around her. Whether on the course or off, she represents the best qualities of a champion.
Congratulations to Barb Bilow on an incredible season! We look forward to seeing what she accomplishes next.
2024 VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR - WAYNE CROWTHER
This next individual has been nominated for Volunteer of the Year in recognition of his outstanding dedication to the local endurance sports community. His passion for cycling, swimming, and racing extends far beyond personal participation. He has been an essential volunteer at the brick and barbeques, manning the on/off line at local races and ensuring that athletes have the support they need to succeed.
Whether setting up early in the morning, coordinating safety efforts on the bike course, assisting with open water swims, or cheering on finishers at the finish line, he has consistently gone above and beyond. He has worked tirelessly behind the scenes at local races, offering his time to manage aid stations, direct athletes, and provide encouragement when it’s needed most. His commitment to the sport and his willingness to lend a hand make him an invaluable part of our community.
He embodies the true spirit of volunteerism, making a significant impact on athletes of all levels. His selfless efforts and unwavering enthusiasm deserve to be recognized with the Volunteer of the Year award.
2024 ROOKIE OF THE YEAR - CHRIS WOODBURY
This athletes rapid rise in the triathlon world makes him a standout candidate for Rookie of the Year. Coming from a running background, he jumped into his first sprint triathlon with just a week of training—a humbling experience that only fueled his drive. With focused training and guidance, he quickly improved, securing an age group win at a local sprint and a 2nd overall finish in an Olympic duathlon. In fall 2024, he further proved his dedication to endurance sports by completing his first marathon.
With Ironman 70.3 Chattanooga and more races ahead in 2025, he continues to push his limits, embracing every challenge with enthusiasm and determination. Whether racing or enjoying motorcycle adventures, he brings the same passion and dedication to everything he does. His rapid progression, humble spirit, and relentless pursuit of growth make him a deserving candidate for Rookie of the Year.
2024 MOST PROLIFIC TRIATHLETE OF THE YEAR - EMILY BONAWITT
It is with high regard that I present this next athlete with the most prolific athlete of the year award in recognition of her outstanding achievements during the 2024 season. She has demonstrated remarkable dedication and competitive excellence, never finishing off the podium.
Trillium Triathlon – 1st place finish Whitehouse Triathlon – 1st place finish T-Rex Triathlon – 1st place finish Ironman Ohio 70.3 – 2nd place finish Ironman Michigan 70.3 – 6th place finish
If you didn’t know, she was officially offered her Pro Card this year. Beyond her impressive results, she has been incredibly welcoming and supportive, offering valuable advice and encouragement to new members. Her unwavering commitment to the sport and her positive influence within the triathlon community make her a truly deserving candidate for this prestigious honor.
