Terry Tomalin

Terry Tomalin was a prominent Outdoors-Fitness Editor at the Tampa Bay Times, formerly known as the St. Petersburg Times, until his untimely death in May 2016 at the age of 55 due to a heart attack. He was well-known for his adventurous spirit and deep commitment to outdoor journalism, having explored various locations across Florida and beyond, including the Amazon and the Everglades. His work aimed to elevate the standards of outdoor writing, focusing on ethical practices and community engagement rather than accepting freebies from manufacturers.14

Tomalin had a rich background in outdoor activities, which included sailing to Cuba, swimming around Key West, and participating in various community initiatives. He was instrumental in founding the Tampa Bay Frogman Swim, which raised significant funds for the Navy SEAL Foundation. Colleagues described him as a dedicated family man who often took children camping, emphasizing his commitment to both community service and ethical journalism.134

In addition to his professional achievements, Tomalin was an alumnus of the University of South Florida and had a significant impact on outdoor culture in Tampa Bay through his writing and community involvement.23 His legacy continues through initiatives like internships created in his honor to inspire future generations of outdoor writers.5