25 Jul 2012 Conway Kids' Triathlon registration open

Registration is open for the 15th First Security Conway Kids’ Triathlon scheduled Saturday, Aug. 4, at the University of Central Arkansas.

According to organizers, about 250 kids have already signed up for the triathlon, brought to participants by the Conway Running Club and title sponsor, First Security.

Youth ages 6 to 15 can still register online at conwaykidstri.com or in person on Friday, Aug. 3, at UCA as long as spots are still available.

The event is one of the country’s premier youth triathlons for all kids, not just kids who participate in triathlons. To register, visit conwaykidstri.com.  

“At the end of the day, each child who participates should be considered a winner – competing in a multi-sport event is a challenge and just finishing is an accomplishment,” said Shannon Milam, race director for the triathlon.

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

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

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

“We encourage parents with kids ages 6-15 to consider signing them up for the event to help them reach a meaningful goal and have fun doing it. This success will breed success in other areas of their life whether they are athletes already or just want to be healthy and have fun,” said Milam.

Kids can participate individually in the event or as a team. “Being part of a team helps with motivation during training, offers encouragement and gives kids a group to identify with during the race,” said Pete Tanguay, team coordinator.   

This year’s triathlon benefits Soul Food Café Mission.  

Visit conwaykidstri.com for more information.