Trail Recreation is looking for up-and-coming young iron men and women to compete in the third annual Kids Triathlon as it takes its mark and gets set to go July 7 at the Trail Aquatic Centre.
The fun event for children ages four to 12, includes a swim, bike and run, followed by a celebration at the end of the race.
“The event doubled last year and this year we’re hoping for even more,” said recreation coordinator Lisa Manaigre.
Last year’s second running hosted over 60 would-be triathletes, and with Teck’s Health and Wellness organizing a kids-triathlon clinic last week, the event is sure to be a success.
The event began when Trail Recreation teamed up with Teck and Gericks Cycle to promote youth fitness and, with the popularity of triathlons growing, the concept seemed like a good fit.
“It’s just a neat opportunity to have kids try the different aspects of the event, the swim, the bike and the run, and try a challenging activity,” said Menaigre.
The event is separated into age categories, with the four-year-old division going first, followed by the 5-6, 7-8, 9-10, and 11 and 12s. Distances vary for each group, with the race starting in the pool where triathletes complete one to four laps depending on age group, before heading out to the transition area and the bike portion. The race winds up with the run finishing in Butler Park.
“Once all the races are done, each of the five groups are finished, we have a big celebration with music and door prizes, fun activities, face painting, and games,” she added, as well as food and refreshments.
Check in is at 8:15 a.m. with a mandatory half-hour orientation going at 9:15 a.m. to familiarize participants and parents with the course and rules as well as answer any questions.
The first group (four year olds) starts at 10 a.m. with successive groups going once the previous crew has finished.
Deadline for registration is Wednesday, July 4.