Proceeds from Scuba Event Benefit Special Olympics Swim TeamPhotos/text by SANDI FAHY
Participants check out their gear prior to the start of the Scuba Olympics at Southwest Pool in Largo earlier this month. Teams from seven area dive shops took part in the competition sponsored by the Professional Association of Dive Operators. First place winners in the four events were Carter Denne of Our Ocean Dreams' Bubble Brigade (bike race); Shane Arnbristen and Mike Vinci, World of Water's Tiger Sharks (buddy tow and 3-legged race); Malena Nelson and Charlie Tuna, Jim's Dive Shop's Bay Pines Barracudas (balloon lift). Olympic-style medals were presented to each of the first, second and third place winners.
 Cole Hardman, 15, works out in the water in preparation for the bicycle race, one of four events in the recent Scuba Olympics at Southwest Pool in Largo on February 7. Pictured with him are Maya Shoup, at back, left, and Neal Ellsworth, who were scheduled to compete in the 100-meter dive buddy tow event. All are members of the Aquaholics from Aquatic Obsessions Scuba. Other dive shops with teams in the competition were Ocean Sports, World of Water, Jim's Dive Shop, Our Ocean Dreams, Scuba West and Narcosis Scuba.
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