The “Beyond Triathlon” documentary made a profound impact at its debut screening last month at the University of North Florida’s Lazzara Performing Arts Center, raising nearly $30,000 to support scholarships for female student-athletes. With close to 400 attendees, the event seamlessly combined film, philanthropy and celebration, all to empower the next generation of women athletes at UNF.
Thanks to a dollar-for-dollar match from the film’s star, Dottie Dorion, the total raised for scholarships doubled, amplifying the impact. Dorion, a trailblazer in master sports and devoted philanthropist, expressed her gratitude to the audience: “I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together. Supporting these young women through scholarships means empowering the next wave of athletes and leaders.”
The documentary “Beyond Triathlon” captivated the audience with its inspiring portrayal of women excelling in master sports. The film features renowned athletes such as triathletes Dorion and Celeste Callahan, Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan and three-time Olympic gold medalist Nancy Hogshead. Narrated by pioneering athlete Sika Henry, the film provided an intimate look at the struggles and triumphs of female athletes who have paved the way in competitive sports.
UNF President Moez Limayem opened the event, speaking on the importance of the partnership between UNF and “Beyond Triathlon.” Limayem expressed his gratitude for Dorion’s unwavering support of UNF over the years, stating that her legacy has shaped much of what UNF does, especially in the area of athletics. He went on to state that the funds raised would enable more female student-athletes to pursue their academic and athletic ambitions.
The event also featured a moving speech from Ashley Cozard, a recent UNF graduate and recipient of the Lisanne Dorion Scholarship, who spoke about the transformative impact the scholarship had on her education and athletic career. Cozard went on to thank Dorion for her support, which allowed her to pursue her dreams in the classroom and in the pool.
Bacardi played a central role in the event, sponsoring the “Triumphant Toast to Excellence” reception that followed the screening and the creation of an exclusive Spirit of A Woman blend. VP of Supply Chain Innovation Andy del Rosal recognized Dorion for her leadership and philanthropy and talked about how honored Bacardi was to partner with “Beyond Triathlon” and support the next generation of female sports leaders. He went on to say that the event embodies Bacardi’s commitment to gender equality and community development.
He also presented Dorion with a proclamation from Deegan commemorating Oct. 12, 2024, as “Dottie Dorion Day.”
The success of the “Beyond Triathlon” documentary debut highlights the power of community and shared purpose.
“This event was more than just a film — it was about coming together to support and uplift future generations of female leaders,” said Niki Logoreci, executive director of the Jacksonville Film Festival, which presented the film.
“‘Beyond Triathlon’ is a wonderful history of the development of Master's Women’s Sports as experienced firsthand by Celeste Callahan and me,” said Dorion. “The theme and our driving force was not to get accolades for our own sports achievements but to emphasize what it enabled us to do for others.”
