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Zitta Caps Two Years of Competition with Ironman Triathlon

Zitta Fam
Jen Fyke Web
by Jennifer Crowley Fyke
November 19, 2019

Marathons. Long-distance swims. HURT trail series. Sea to Stars. Ironman Triathlon.

We’ve followed LT Duane Zitta for the last two years as he’s conquered every challenge he’s taken on. It seems that there’s no trail, ocean, mountain or road top too difficult for him. And he has matched each competition’s challenges with an equal amount of passion and commitment for Coast Guard families.

To date, he’s raised more than $20,000 for the Coast Guard Foundation’s Fallen Heroes Fund by competing in close to twenty races.

Zitta’s most recent competition, the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, took place on October 12.

Part of Duane’s success is his ability to get people involved in the cause. Through his deep connections with Coast Guard members and families all across the country, he has created a community of supporters. They support him through his races and competitions, and join him in support of Coast Guard families who have suffered great loss and tragedy. His ability to draw people together is a lasting legacy of his hard work and determination.

We are so incredibly proud of Duane and his accomplishments. He’s inspired all of us with his dedication. Thank you for supporting Coast Guard fallen hero families.

- Susan Ludwig, Coast Guard Foundation President

Duane draws his inspiration from Coast Guard Gold Star families and is honored to represent the service in these races and competitions.

“I could not have been more proud to fly our Coast Guard flag down the finish chute! Every chance I get, I will continue to do everything in my power to ensure our Gold Star families are honored, and their sacrifices are always remembered,” shared Zitta after the race.

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