Connor Phillips displays his versatility with strong triathlon performance

Accomplishment: Lodi's Connor Phillips, an eighth grader at Joe Serna Charter School, was first in the 18-and-under division at the Bear Valley Triathlon last Sunday. Phillips completed the race in 1 hour, 18 minutes, 16 seconds.

Connor Phillips

His time was good enough to have placed him second in the 19-29 age division. He was 23rd overall.

Family: Dave and Corene Phillips, parents; one brother.

Favorite sport: Triathlons. "I enjoy competing in the different sports," said Phillips, who has been competing for three or four years.

Favorite athlete: Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps, who won a record eight gold medals at the 2008 Summer Games in Beijing, China.

"The things he does are amazing," Phillips said.

Favorite hobbies: Rock climbing, skiing, mountain biking and traveling. Phillips said his best trip was to Laos.

"I got to meet monks, go to temples and try different foods," he said.

Favorite subject: Math. "Everything is always the same no matter what."

Would like to meet: Phillips said he would like to go skiing with Bode Miller.

Crowning achievement: Placing first in his division at the Bear Valley Triathlon.

Plans: To compete in an Ironman triathlon and attend college in Barcelona.

"I'd like to perfect my Spanish and learn about the culture," Phillips said.

The Athlete of the Week is selected by the News-Sentinel sports staff. Nominations are gladly accepted. Phillips will receive a T-shirt courtesy of Lodi Sporting Goods for being selected.