Larry Fariss, Medford’s first “IRONMAN”. At Medford Mid-High he established the two-mile record of 10 min. 45 sec. In 1968, also receiving the Most Valuable Athlete award that year. As an offensive guard, he was on the Medford Senior High State Championship football team, and in 1970-71 was Most Valuable wrestler – All State selection, offensive tackle, and co-captain of the Medford High State runner-up football team – All State selections Medford’s Most Valuable offensive lineman, and recipient of the John Nuich Award as the outstanding player in Medford’s class of 1971.

Larry attended the United States Air Force Academy, participating as a varsity wrestler in 1971-72 and was a three-year starting offensive guard for the football team, serving as team captain in 1974 and assistant football coaching 1975.

Probably one of the most grueling tests of human endurance and athletic skill: “The Ironman Triathlon.” Larry participated in this event in 1983 – 1984.  A 2.4-mile ocean swim, 12-mile bicycle race and a 26.2-mile marathon run. He placed in the top 15% in a world championship field of 1000 with times of 11 hrs. 39 minutes and 12 hrs. 09 min. and was recognized as the first major college football lineman to finish this event.