NEWPORT-MESA YMCA JUNIOR TRIATHLON A HUGE SUCCESS

2nd Annual Junior Triathlon to Help Build Character, Self-Confidence, and Healthy Lifestyles

On June 4^th, 2011, the YMCA in Newport Beach hosted its second annual Junior Triathlon for kids between the ages of five and twelve. The triathlon was held at the Newport Beach facility overlooking the Back Bay Nature Reserve, and open to the whole community. The race started with a run on the Back Bay trail, quickly transitioned to the bike portion, and ended at the YMCA facility for the final leg in the pool. Since it is not a timed event, all participants that completed the race were considered winners and given a completion medal at the finish line. One thing that made this event especially unique is that it is the only event of its type in Orange County to be offered to children.

Organized and operated by the YMCA’s Triathlon Club, the Junior Triathlon launched its first race in 2010 with 35 adventurous kids taking part in the race. The event was so popular that the Tri Club decided to offer the race again this year to overwhelming success. With a 300% increase, 113 juniors participated in the race and over 200 spectators and 40 volunteers showed up to support it. Because the event was so successful, corporations like Niagara Water, Surf City Cycle, Shirley’s Bagels, Smart and Final, Albertsons and many other businesses have also stepped up in the community to sponsor the event. The YMCA Tri Club is now committed to hosting this event annually to introduce children to the psychological and physiological benefits of multi-sport training and competition. The Tri Club’s core value of healthy lifestyles is not just for kids though; events like these have also inspired people of all ages to get active and enroll in adult training programs.

Developing self-confidence within the children was another great aspect of the race. From the run, to the bike, to the swim, the triathlon was a great way for them to realize that they can do all three sports, and that their bodies are more than capable of completing the course. “Running, biking and swimming are all great family activities, and any chance we get to invest a little time with our kids in these physical activities prove to be precious moments. They just grow up way too fast,” says the YMCA Tri Club president, Scott Crowell. “It’s not just about what the kids take away from this event,” he continues, “It’s equally as rewarding for us as it is our chance to give back to the community. The YMCA is all about community, reaching out and inviting people in. It is amazing to see our numbers triple this year, and the feedback has been overwhelming.”

“Next year’s event will once again grow in size and allow us to take it to the next level. Triathlon training and competition is growing extremely fast right now, and we love to see the children get excited to live adventurous and active lifestyles.”

Registration for the 2012 Junior Triathlon will begin March 1, 2012. If you would like to sponsor the 2012 YMCA Jr. Triathlon, please contact Scott Crowell  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

See pictures from the YMCA Jr. Triathlonhttp://kehoephoto.zenfolio.com/p997060327/h1fd140f9#h204942be