Triathlete Kids Compete (and Have Fun!)

At the soggy break of dawn on Saturday, May 2, kids from across North Texas challenged their bodies to complete the Historical McKinney Kiwanis KIDS triathlon (a sporting event in which athletes swim, bike and run), sponsored by the Playtri triathlon training club.

During the event, kids ages 7-10 were required to swim 100 yards, bike 2.5 miles and then run .5 miles. Participants ages 11-14 were required to swim 200 yards, bike 5 miles and run 1 mile.

I joined the ranks of volunteers who aided athletes with directions and traffic control. And, as a triathlete, I was astounded at the friendly competitiveness of the young participants. The kids whizzed by me on the bike loop — some of the kiddos even rode top-notch bikes made especially for triathlons (I was struck with a bit of bike envy!).


My favorite participant of the younger age category was a girl who rode a pretty pink one-speed bike fitted with a white wicker basket (shown at left). She was out on the course cycling to her heart's content with her head down and arms bent as she cranked up a hill. I was so inspired by this little athlete's devotion to the sport!

Congratulations to the participants and finishers of Saturday's race! And, kudos to the parents who encourage exercise and healthy competition. *More photos of the event coming soon!

Interested in signing your child up for a race? The following events are perfect for first-timers:

Frisco Youth Triathlon, May 31
Click here to register, find race details and read about training clinics just for kids.

4th-Annual Kids Tri at the "J", June 7
Click here to register and for race details.

9th-Annual Town North YMCA Kids Triathlon, July 19
Click here to register and for race details.

Kids Playtri Triathlon at Stonebridge Ranch, September 26
Click here to register and for race details.

Lifetime Fitness Kids Triathlon (Flower Mound), October 10
Click here for more information. Registration coming soon.

Trick-or-Treat Kids Triathlon, October 25
Click here for more race details. Registration coming soon.

—Gretchen