Photos: ITPMAN Triathlon

Some 17 New Canaanites were among those competing in the half-mile swim, 15-mile bike and 5-mile run that left Weed Beach at 5:30 a.m., looped in New Canaan, and ended at the sandy shore where it began. The triathlon was held to benefit the ITP Foundation, an organization whose mission is to raise awareness of Immune Thrmoboycytopenic Purpura (ITP), an auto-immune blood disorder in which the immune system attacks its own platelets, the blood elements needed for clotting.

Christian Wolfgruber was the top New Canaan finisher, at 18th, with a time of 1:35.19. Dylan O'Connor of New Canaan was the youngest competitor, finishing 103d overall and first in the 19 and under category.

Of the 304 athletes who participated this year, about a quarter were Darien and New Canaan residents. The rest traveled from all over the U.S. and ranged in age from 16 to 66 years of age.

Check here for the complete race results.

Despite a few complaints of lost-ankle bracelets (used to clock time), and a few bumps and bruises at a 6-bike crash near Waveny Park, all participants crossed the finish line.

“It was a very successful event, and the thank yous were incredible. This means a lot for the foundation and I hope we can expand our fundraiser efforts,” said Executive Director of the ITP Foundation and event coordinator Chris Landino.

Participation in the race cost $100; all proceeds went towards the ITP Foundation to further research.