From 1933 until 1963, San Francisco’s Alcatraz island was famous its escape-proof federal prison. Now, however, it’s famous for being the site of thousands of “escapes” every year, thanks to the annual Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon. This year marked the 30th year in which hopefuls jammed the Bay waters for the 1.5-mile swim to shore, then took an 18-mile bike ride over the grueling San Francisco Hills, and ended with a tough eight-mile run through the trails of the Golden Gate Recreational Area. To commemorate the event’s anniversary, CBS will present a nationally syndicated television special, and the program will feature two Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF)-sponsored amputee competitors. Ryan Szielenski and the famed “One Arm” Willie Stewart will talk on the Sunday, June 27, show about their “Alcatraz” experience. This year marked Stewart’s ninth foray into event, and Szielenski’s first. According to CAF, Szielenski will describe how “having the veteran there to give him tips was vital.”
Click here to find a local television station that will broadcast the event.
