USA Triathlon has named Allysa Seely and Chris Hammer as the 2019 Elite Paratriathletes of the Year presented by Wahoo Fitness, ‘recognizing their standout performances on the world stage throughout the 2019 season.’
Up-and-coming stars Joshua Sweeney and Nicole Ver Kuilen were named Paratriathlon Development Athletes of the Year, as both collected national titles and had breakout performances in international competition in 2019.
“To be recognized as Athlete of the Year for the excellence I have sought to achieve is nothing short of incredible for me,” Allysa Seely said. “With the Tokyo Paralympics on the horizon, 2020 is a big year. All of my focus has shifted to be the strongest and most prepared athlete I can be on August 29. I know if I can do just that, I have a chance at accomplishing my goal of defending my goal medal from 2016 and standing on top of the podium for the USA once again.”
Chris Hammer said, “It’s a huge honour, especially considering how fast and successful the other US male paratriathletes were in 2019, such as Aaron Scheidies and Jamie Brown. I’m really just thankful that USA Triathlon has given me the opportunity to travel and represent our country.
“I wouldn’t have won this award if it weren’t for the time, energy and resources that USA Triathlon has invested in me.”
The 2019 USA Triathlon Elite Paratriathlete of the Year selections are as follows:
Women’s Elite Paratriathlete of the Year: Allysa Seely (Glendale, Ariz.)
Men’s Elite Paratriathlete of the Year: Chris Hammer (Salt Lake City, Utah)
Women’s Paratriathlon Development Athlete of the Year: Nicole Ver Kuilen (Saginaw, Mich.)
Men’s Paratriathlon Development Athlete of the Year: Joshua Sweeney (Hillsboro, Ore.)
