1st Place, The Love of Sports -
Title: Man of Iron, TX Ironman
Judge Howard Cheek 04 Nov 2012
I chose this image of sport and "action" as the winner for its details, excellent low point of view, sharply contrasted subject, and overall impact. The photographer handled the bright sunny conditions well, with the black/white conversion and monochromatic look nicely done. I noted a very slight unintended halo at the head & upper body from the conversion. It produced an appealing "aura" that added something special for me. Excellent eye contact that makes a solid connection with the viewer as well. On the last leg of this marathon, the runners expression tells a story of dogged determination that has universal appeal. One small suggestion for improvement would be to remove the faint "dust bunny" upper left corner, a minor nit. Congratulations!