14 Jun 2017 20th Annual First Security Kids’ Triathlon set Aug. 12

The 20th Annual First Security Conway Kids’ Triathlon will be held Saturday, Aug. 12, at Hendrix College. Registration is now open.  

Youth ages 6 to 15 can register at conwaykidstri.com until Friday, Aug. 11, as long as spots are still available.  

The Conway event is one of the country’s premier youth triathlons but is open for all kids, not just kids who have previously participated in triathlons.

"It is both humbling and exciting to think that the Conway Kids’ Triathlon has been giving kids and parents such wonderful race experiences for 20 years,” said Conway Kids’ Triathlon Race Director Heather Kendrick,. “Our board is proud to be carrying on the vision that first started this event – showing kids what it means to demonstrate a true spirit of determination and perseverance.”

Triathlons are events involving three sports – swimming, biking and running. While the health benefits of participating are obvious, the self-confidence that comes from being involved in an endurance event is just as important.

“In addition to drawing true competitors from states all over the region, the Conway Kids Tri is a great event for first-time triathletes. We make an effort to reach out to first-time competitors in our race. We want every child who wants to do a triathlon to be able to do it. There is nothing like seeing that child who thought, ‘I can’t’ cross the finish line,” said Kendrick.

The Conway Kids’ Triathlon is an event for all abilities. Ages 6-10 complete a 50-yard swim, two-mile bike and ½ mile run. Ages 11-15 complete a 100-yard swim, four-mile bike and 1 mile run.  

Some kids participating in the event are experienced at triathlons and are working to improve their finish times. For other kids, this event will be their first triathlon and they are working to finish the race and accomplish personal goals.  

Overall awards are given to the first boy and girl ages 6-10 and 11-15. First through fifth place awards are also given in each individual age group. Every competitor receives a custom medal and race T-shirt.

This year, the Conway Kids Triathlon will include a Special Needs Division for the first time, in partnership with Community Connections.

“They have come alongside us with their expertise to enable us to give special needs kids an amazing triathlon experience,” said Kendrick. “We cannot wait for this year’s unforgettable anniversary event.”

Entry fee is $20/$25 after Monday, July 31. The event emphasizes health, self-esteem, self-confidence and fun in a safe, family-friendly environment. The Conway Kids’ Triathlon benefits Soul Food Café Mission.  

Visit conwaykidstri.com for more information.