MANSFIELD, OH - The Second Chance Racing Team announced today that they will compete in their first event as a team at the 2005 Powerman Ohio Duathlon. The Second Chance Racing Team are survivors of cardiac events and as a result of current procedures and lifestyle changes will test their fitness in the inaugural Powerman Ohio duathlon on May 15 at the Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course.

The Second Chance Racing Team members competing are:

Bob Bowes, 62, from Hartville, Ohio is a semi-retired engineer. Bob experienced chest pains and shortness of breath in February 2004. Following catherization and insertion of three stents, the former BMX and SCCA racer has resumed an active lifestyle. Bob spends his days working out at the gym, skiing during the winter and teaching mathematics to GED students.

Mark Brockman, 46, the youngest team member, suffered a heart attack in October 2002. Following angioplasty procedures, two vessels were re-opened with stents to correct blockages. Following his rehabilitation, Mark began running and has competed in numerous running events. Mark resigned his stressful professional position and became the Sports and Recreation Minister for the Crestwood Baptist Church in LaGrange, Kentucky.

Robert (Gene) Burchill, 57, from Mansfield, Ohio is a Family Services Specialist and works part-time in seasonal recreation jobs. Gene required seven cardiac bypasses to correct his blockages in May 2000. Following weight reduction and completion of cardiac rehabilitation at the Mid-Ohio Heart Clinic Cardio Fit Rehabilitation Center, his condition improved.

Jim Earnshaw, 56, from Mansfield, Ohio is the team organizer. Jim survived a heart attack and a successful quintuple bypass in January 2000. Jim is a Sales Representative who also enjoys seasonal employment at a local golf course. After completing his cardio rehabilitation, Jim began an active weekly routine of spinning, weight and flexibility training, yoga, and stretching.

The Second Chance Racing Team members agree that aging is no excuse for slowing down and that it is important to one's health to remain active. With proper diet, exercise and lifestyle changes, Bob, Mark, Gene and Jim now have the ability to participate in Powerman Ohio. The Second Chance Racing Team is motivation by example that just because you experience a cardiac event the race is not over.

If you are a cardiac survivor and interested in learning more about the Second Chance Racing Team, contact Jim Earnshaw at jearnshaw@neo.rr.com.
For additional information about Powerman Ohio go to www.powermanohio.com