Introduction

Picture this: a 6-year-old, cheeks flushed with excitement, crossing the finish line of their very first triathlon, training wheels still on. This heartwarming scene unfolds every year at Seminole's "Tri If You Dare" Youth Triathlon. Now in its 21st year, this event continues to spark joy and inspire young athletes.

As summer rolls in, parents are on the lookout for activities that keep their kids active, engaged, and away from screens. For over two decades, this event has been a beacon for families, offering kids aged 5-12 a thrilling introduction to multisport activities in a nurturing environment.

Ashley Frydrych, the recreation program coordinator, shares, "They don't have to be super athletes to participate. It's all about having fun and doing your best while the crowd cheers you on."

This article dives into the event's kid-friendly format, registration details, and discusses why such non-competitive athletic events are pivotal for children's development—both physically and mentally.

A Kid-Friendly Triathlon

The "Tri If You Dare" event shakes up the traditional triathlon format to better suit young participants. It kicks off with a run, followed by a bike ride, and ends with a swim in the Seminole Recreation Center pool—a sequence thoughtfully designed to build confidence early and finish strong with a refreshing splash.

The entire course is set within the safe confines of the recreation center and adjacent college campus, with distances tailored to be age-appropriate and manageable.

Ashley explains, "We see kids on training wheels, and that's perfectly fine. Our aim is to introduce them to multisport in a fun, inclusive way."

Community Spirit in Action

This event is a testament to the power of community. Supported by the Seminole Breakfast Kiwanis Club and Seminole FC, "Tri If You Dare" is more than a competition; it's a celebration of youth and sport.

Originally a sanctioned race, it has evolved into a community festivity emphasizing fun and participation. "We attract families, not professional athletes. It's about recreational fun and community spirit," says Ashley.

The atmosphere is electric, with families and volunteers lining the course, cheering every participant, reinforcing the importance of community support in nurturing young athletes.

Race Day Rundown

Here’s what participants can expect on race day, with staggered starts to ensure a smooth experience for all age groups:

• Ages 11-12: 7:05 a.m.
• Ages 9-10: 7:35 a.m.
• Ages 7-8: 8:05 a.m.
• Ages 5-6: 8:35 a.m.

Distances are thoughtfully set to challenge yet encourage young athletes:

Participants should bring a fitted bike, helmet, running gear, swimsuit, towel, water bottle, and athletic shoes. An awards ceremony will recognize the top performers, but every child will leave with a greater sense of achievement.

Beyond the Finish Line

The benefits of participating extend well beyond physical activity. Children learn perseverance, goal-setting, and sportsmanship. They gain confidence and discover joy in physical activities that could become lifelong passions.

Moreover, the event fosters family bonding—from training sessions to race day cheers, creating lasting memories.

Ashley hopes, "They remember the fun of being outdoors, running, biking, and swimming with friends. It's more than a race; it's about joy and community."

Join the Fun!

When: Sunday, June 22, 7-10 a.m.

Where: Seminole Recreation Center (9100 113th St. N.)

Registration: $65 per child, available online at Active.com or in-person at the Seminole Recreation Center.

For more details, visit www.myseminole.com.