Preps 24/7: Viking conquest continues in Singapore

Geneva seniors-to-be Kevin McDowell and Kelly Whitley joined forces Thursday to help their Americas 1 team win a bronze medal in the mixed team triathlon event at the inaugural Youth Olympic Games in Singapore.

A gold medal was within reach before officials penalized Argentinian teammate Lautaro Diaz 15 seconds for unfastening his bicycle helmet strap too early. Diaz had not yet racked his bike as he transitioned into the race's closing run phase.

Adriana Barraza of Mexico rounded out the Americas 1 quartet, which finished behind Europe 1 and Oceania 1.

Europe and Oceania athletes passed Diaz as he waited in a penalty box about 200 meters from the finish.

McDowell and Whitley both represent Tri-Cities based Multisport Madness and are coached by Keith Dickson, who reported the Vikings were happy with the team result in an e-mail update. McDowell (silver, men's) and Whitley (bronze women's) medaled in their individual events this past weekend.

Both will remain overseas to train for the International Triathlon Union Junior World Championships in Budapest, Hungary on Sept. 12.