17 Jul 2013 Registration under way for Conway Kids Triathlon
Registration is open for the 16th annual First Security Conway Kids’ Triathlon with about 140 kids signed up so far, including three from Mississippi.
Youth ages six to 15 can still register online at conwaykidstri.com until Thursday, Aug. 1, as long as spots are still available. The Saturday, Aug. 3, triathlon event is one of the country’s premier youth triathlons for all kids, not just kids who participate in triathlons. It will be held at the University of Central Arkansas.
“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 race director Shannon Milam.
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 ride and half-mile run. Ages 11-15 complete a 100-yard swim, four-mile bike ride 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 team coordinator Pete Tanguay.
The event is supported by the Conway Running Club and title sponsor First Security. The event emphasizes health, self-esteem, self-confidence and fun in a safe, family-friendly environment. This year’s triathlon benefits Soul Food Café Mission. Visit conwaykidstri.com for more information.
