What Is the Just Tri It! Kids Triathlon?

The 2026 Just Tri It! Kids Triathlon is a youth-focused triathlon event hosted by St. Johns County Parks and Recreation. Unlike scaled-down versions of adult races that can feel overwhelming or exclusionary, this event is purpose-built for children — emphasizing encouragement, age-appropriate competition, and the kind of confidence that comes from finishing something challenging.

Event details at a glance:

• Date: April 26, 2026
• Location: Solomon Calhoun Community Center, 1300 Duval St., St. Augustine, FL
• Check-in: 7:15 a.m.
• Race Start: 8:00 a.m.
• Ages: 5–14

Every registered participant receives an event T-shirt and a finisher medal — because in a race like this, crossing the finish line is the victory.

Age Divisions: Competition That Fits Every Child

One of the things that makes Just Tri It! stand out is its thoughtful approach to age-appropriate competition. Rather than grouping all kids together, the event organizes participants into three distinct divisions so children are always racing among peers at a similar developmental stage.

The Three Age Groups:

• Ages 5–8 — Perfect for the youngest adventurers taking their first steps into organized athletics
• Ages 9–11 — Ideal for kids who are building independence and looking for a real competitive challenge
• Ages 12–14 — Designed for older youth ready to test their fitness and push their limits

This structure ensures that a 5-year-old isn't intimidated by competing against a 14-year-old, and that older kids still feel genuinely challenged. Every child gets to shine in a field that's right for them.

New for 2026: The Parent/Child Division

This year brings an exciting addition to the race lineup — a brand-new parent/child division making its debut at the 2026 event.

Designed specifically for younger or first-time competitors, this option allows a parent or guardian to race alongside their child, turning what might be a nerve-wracking solo experience into a shared family adventure. For children who need a little extra encouragement to take that first leap, having mom or dad right there on the course can make all the difference.

As Tess Simpson, Community Program Manager, puts it:

"It's a fun, supportive way for kids to build confidence, stay active, and even share the experience with their parents."

If your child has been curious about triathlons but hesitant to dive in alone, the parent/child division might be exactly the push — and the partnership — they need.

Registration Details: Act Fast for the Best Price

Registration is open now, and there's a clear financial incentive to sign up sooner rather than later.

Pricing Breakdown:

Every registration includes:

• Event T-shirt
• Finisher medal
• A real, timed triathlon experience your child will never forget

To register your child or find out more about the event, contact St. Johns County Parks and Recreation directly. With the early bird deadline falling just days before the April 26 race, registering now is the smart move for both your wallet and your peace of mind.

Community Support Makes It All Possible

Events like Just Tri It! don't happen without a strong community behind them. The St. Johns County Parks Foundation and a network of generous local sponsors play a direct role in keeping this event accessible to as many families as possible.

Simpson highlighted the impact of that support:

"Thanks to the generous support of the St. Johns County Parks Foundation and our sponsors, we're able to make this event accessible and memorable for so many local families."

That commitment to accessibility matters. Organized youth sports events with community backing help level the playing field, giving children from a wide range of backgrounds the chance to participate in something meaningful — and to discover what they're capable of.

Preparing Your Child for Race Day

First-time triathlon families often wonder: How do we even get ready for this? The good news is that with nearly two weeks until race day — and even more time if you're reading this early — there's plenty of opportunity to prepare without pressure.

Tips to Help Your Child Get Ready:

• Start simple and consistent. You don't need an elaborate training plan. Focus on helping your child practice the three core components of a triathlon — swimming, cycling, and running — in short, fun sessions. Keep it playful, not punishing. For inspiration on how to structure youth training, check out how young triathletes are making an impact.
• Practice transitions. One of the trickiest parts of any triathlon is moving quickly from one discipline to the next. Try a simple backyard drill: ride bikes, then transition to running shoes and jog around the block. It builds familiarity and confidence. Learn more about choosing the right gear for faster transitions.
• Talk about the experience, not just the outcome. Help your child understand that finishing is the goal — not finishing first. Frame race day as an adventure you're going on together, and celebrate every milestone along the way. This mindset is crucial for building lifelong athletic confidence.
• Visit the venue if possible. Familiarizing your child with the Solomon Calhoun Community Center beforehand can reduce pre-race jitters significantly. A familiar environment feels far less intimidating on the morning of the race.
• Prepare race-day logistics early. Lay out gear the night before. Know where to park and where check-in is located. An organized, calm morning sets the tone for a great race. Consider investing in quality youth swim gear like adjustable UV400 swim goggles to ensure comfort during the swim portion.

Why Events Like This Matter

The benefits of youth participation in organized athletics extend well beyond a single race morning. Research consistently shows that children who engage in physical activity through structured events develop stronger self-esteem, better stress management, and healthier long-term habits.

But beyond the data, there's something deeply human about watching a child discover they can do something hard. That finish-line moment — the medal around the neck, the T-shirt earned, the parent cheering from the sideline — becomes a memory that can shape a child's belief in themselves for years to come.

Events like Just Tri It! are how communities invest in the next generation, one finish line at a time. For families looking to continue the triathlon journey beyond this event, exploring local triathlon opportunities can help maintain that momentum.

Key Takeaways and Next Steps

Here's your quick-reference summary for everything you need to know:

• Event: Just Tri It! Kids Triathlon | April 26, 2026
• Location: Solomon Calhoun Community Center, 1300 Duval St., St. Augustine
• Age Groups: 5–8, 9–11, 12–14 | New: Parent/Child Division
• Early Bird Price: $40 per racer through April 18 | $50 starting April 19
• Includes: Event T-shirt + finisher medal
• Check-in: 7:15 a.m. | Race Start: 8:00 a.m.

Your Action Items:

1. Register before April 18 to lock in the $40 early bird rate
2. Begin light, fun training with your child using the disciplines of swimming, biking, and running
3. Mark April 26 on your calendar and plan your race-day logistics
4. Contact St. Johns County Parks and Recreation for registration details and any additional questions
5. Explore more triathlon resources at Triathlon.mx for training tips and inspiration

For more information about the Just Tri It! Kids Triathlon, contact St. Johns County Parks and Recreation or visit the St. Johns County Parks Foundation website. Don't wait — the early bird deadline is April 18, and spots won't last forever.

Looking for more ways to support your young athlete's triathlon journey? Explore our complete selection of youth triathlon gear and discover essential tips for first-time triathletes of all ages.