Athletes compete in Wing Olympiad Published Nov. 1, 2007 By Tech. Sgt. Tom Czerwinski 45th SW Public Affairs PATRICK AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- The 45th Mission Support Group, including the Wing Staff and Support Agencies, claimed bragging rights and the Sports Day Olympiad trophy for 2007 during wing sports day Oct 26. Scoring 77 total points overall was enough to earn the top honor. Coming in second place with 70 points overall was the 45th Launch Group and finishing third with 64 points was the 45th Operations Group. The day's activities began with a parade of athletes and a 5k run, then a push-up/sit-up competition. Other events during the day included a triathlon, one-pitch softball, 600 meter kayak race, bowling and a bench press competition, but not all events were straight up sports competition - a little fun was thrown in with a blindfolded dinghy race. "I was a little apprehensive about trying to navigate a blindfolded person on the water but we came up with a strategy and plan, and it turned out to be great fun," said Major Brande Walton, wing executive officer. The Olympiad came to a close with one of the most anticipated events - the tug-of-war, held in the hard packed sand at The Tides waterfront. As spectators and teammates cheered on the teams battling for almost an hour, AFTAC eventually pulled its way to the tug-of-war championship, dragging down the 45th Medical Group. During the closing ceremonies medals were awarded to the first, second and third place winners in each event. "The Sports Day Olympiad was a great way to cultivate fitness, build esprit de corps and camaraderie, while building teamwork among Airmen," said Mr. Jim Hickey, event coordinator and five-time U.S. Olympian.