John A. Walker, 42

Barry University's general counsel and vice president for human resources

Walker will represent the United States on Team USA for the Duathlon World Championships in Rimini, Italy, on Sunday. For Walker, it's a homecoming of sorts.

''I was in the military and lived in Germany for about seven years, so I've been to Italy,'' Walker says.

Duathlons swap out the swimming portion of a triathlon, the part of the event that can often dry dock an athlete. Duathlon athletes compete in a 6.2-mile run, a 25-mile bike ride and a 3.1-mile run.

``Traditionally, the duathlon was created for those who don't have the time to swim or a real background in swimming. I like to do the triathlon but I'm not as good of a swimmer . . . it's a technique thing whereas anyone can bike or run. I can be competitive on the bike or the run but not as fast on the swim.''

WHAT'S THE HARDEST PART?

``Making sure you pace yourself. You don't want to go out too fast on the run and then . . . wear yourself down and not be as fast on the bike.''

HOW'S YOUR TRAINING?

``I work out at least a minimum of five days a week, an hour-and-a-half a day, depending on what I'm doing. If I'm going on a 30-mile bike ride and six-mile run, that's a longer day than if I do shorter, faster interval type biking. I want to work on the speed part of it as well.''

WORDS OF WISDOM?

``I'm really a big proponent of staying physically fit and I would encourage anyone to do it. Do it at your own pace. I think if someone did a little training or are used to riding a bike, they could go out there and give it a shot. The beauty of doing races is that it gives you a goal, something to train for. It can be something you enjoy, it doesn't have to be a chore.''

-- HOWARD COHEN

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